Engineering is one of the most sought-after fields in South Africa, offering excellent career opportunities and technological advancements. To secure admission into an engineering program, universities use the Admission Point Score (APS) system to assess applicants based on their Grade 12 results.
APS Score for Engineering: Requirements for Studying at DUT, TUT, CPUT, UJ
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the APS requirements for engineering programs at four major institutions: Durban University of Technology (DUT), Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT), and the University of Johannesburg (UJ). Understanding these requirements can help prospective students make informed decisions about their academic future.
What is an APS Score?
The Admission Point Score (APS) is a calculation used by South African universities to determine whether an applicant qualifies for a particular course. The APS is determined based on the student’s National Senior Certificate (NSC) or equivalent Grade 12 results.
General APS Requirements for Engineering
Engineering programs require strong performance in Mathematics and Physical Sciences. While each institution has its own specific APS requirements, students generally need an APS between 22 and 35 to qualify for various engineering diplomas and degrees. Higher APS scores may be required for degree programs compared to diploma programs.
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APS Requirements for Engineering at Selected Universities
Durban University of Technology (DUT)
DUT offers a variety of engineering programs, including diplomas and degrees in Civil, Electrical, and Mechanical Engineering.
- Diploma in Engineering: APS of 24 (Mathematics and Physical Sciences required)
- Bachelor of Engineering Technology (BEngTech): APS of 28
- Minimum subject requirements:
- Mathematics: Level 4 (50-59%)
- Physical Sciences: Level 4 (50-59%)
- English: Level 4 (50-59%)
Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
TUT offers National Diplomas and Bachelor of Engineering Technology (BEngTech) degrees across various engineering disciplines.
- Diploma in Engineering: APS of 22 to 24, depending on the program
- BEngTech: APS of 28 to 30
- Minimum subject requirements:
- Mathematics: Level 4 or 5 (50-59% or 60-69%)
- Physical Sciences: Level 4 (50-59%)
- English: Level 4 (50-59%)
Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
CPUT offers Diplomas and Bachelor of Engineering Technology degrees in multiple engineering fields.
- Diploma in Engineering: APS of 26
- BEngTech: APS of 30 or higher
- Minimum subject requirements:
- Mathematics: Level 4 (50-59%)
- Physical Sciences: Level 4 (50-59%)
- English: Level 4 (50-59%)
University of Johannesburg (UJ)
UJ offers both Diplomas and Bachelor of Engineering degrees (BEng and BEngTech).
- Diploma in Engineering: APS of 23 to 26, depending on the program
- BEngTech: APS of 28
- Bachelor of Engineering (BEng): APS of 35 or higher
- Minimum subject requirements:
- Mathematics: Level 5 (60-69%) for BEngTech, Level 6 (70-79%) for BEng
- Physical Sciences: Level 5 (60-69%) for BEngTech, Level 6 (70-79%) for BEng
- English: Level 5 (60-69%)
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Prospective engineering students should carefully check the APS requirements and subject prerequisites for their chosen institution and program. While diploma courses have slightly lower APS requirements, degree programs, especially BEng degrees, require higher scores in Mathematics and Physical Sciences.
Students who do not meet the minimum APS can consider bridging courses or alternative pathways to qualify for engineering studies.
