Dlamini BlessingFor many South African students, the absence of Pure Mathematics in their matric subjects can feel like a barrier to university education. The University of the Free State (UFS) in Bloemfontein offers numerous programmes across multiple faculties that accept Mathematical Literacy, making higher education accessible to students from diverse academic backgrounds.
University of the Free State Courses That Don’t Require Maths
General Admission Requirements at UFS
Before applying, you must understand how UFS calculates your Admission Point Score (AP). UFS uses a specific conversion table based on your NSC levels.
UFS AP Conversion Table:
NSC Level / Percentage / UFS AP
Level 7 / 80-100% / 7-8
Level 6 / 70-79% / 6
Level 5 / 60-69% / 5
Level 4 / 50-59% / 4
Level 3 / 40-49% / 3
Level 2 / 30-39% / 2
Life Orientation (60%+) / +1 point
For degree studies, UFS generally expects an overall AP of 30 and a minimum achievement level of 4 (50%) in the chosen language of instruction (English or Afrikaans) . However, some programmes have lower requirements, particularly Higher Certificates and Extended Curriculum Programmes.
Important note: Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission, as selection depends on the number of applicants and available space in each programme.
Courses That Accept Mathematical Literacy
The following courses at the University of the Free State are open to students who do not have Pure Mathematics. Many of these programmes accept Mathematical Literacy.
Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences
While this faculty generally requires Pure Mathematics, there are important exceptions. Mathematical Literacy does not generally give you entrance to the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, but the exceptions are:
Bachelor of Consumer Science
This programme focuses on consumer behaviour, food and nutrition, and clothing retail management. It is an excellent option for students interested in the business side of consumer goods.
Mathematics Requirement: Mathematical Literacy accepted
Bachelor of Agriculture Programmes
These programmes focus on agricultural economics, animal science, and sustainable food systems. They are more accessible than the BSc Agriculture degree.
Mathematics Requirement: Mathematical Literacy at Level 6 (70-79%) OR Pure Mathematics at Level 3 (40-49%)
Extended Curriculum Programmes (ECP) in Natural and Agricultural Sciences
These four-year programmes provide additional academic support for students who meet the minimum requirements but may need more time to adjust to university study.
Mathematics Requirement: Mathematical Literacy accepted
University Access Programmes
These bridging programmes prepare students for mainstream degree studies.
Mathematics Requirement: Mathematical Literacy accepted
Bachelor of Architecture
This programme covers architectural design, building technology, and construction methods. Creativity and design skills are prioritised over mathematics.
Mathematics Requirement: Check prospectus for specific requirements. Mathematical Literacy may be accepted.
Bachelor of Quantity Surveying
This programme focuses on construction cost management, contract administration, and building economics.
Mathematics Requirement: Check prospectus for specific requirements.
Faculty of Humanities
The Faculty of Humanities offers the widest range of options for students without Pure Mathematics .
Bachelor of Arts (BA)
The Bachelor of Arts degree is one of the most flexible options for students without Pure Mathematics. This programme offers majors in languages, history, geography, sociology, psychology, and other humanities disciplines.
Mathematics Requirement: Mathematical Literacy is accepted. Pure Mathematics is not required.
Additional Requirements: English at Level 4 (50-59%)
APS Requirement: Minimum 30 points
Bachelor of Social Work
This professional degree prepares students to become social workers, registered with the South African Council for Social Service Professions.
Mathematics Requirement: Mathematical Literacy is accepted.
Bachelor of Arts in Communication Science
This programme focuses on corporate communication, public relations, media studies, and journalism.
Mathematics Requirement: Mathematical Literacy is accepted.
Bachelor of Arts in Drama and Theatre Arts
This creative programme focuses on performance, directing, and theatre production. Auditions are typically required.
Mathematics Requirement: No specific mathematics requirement.
Bachelor of Arts in Fine Arts
This programme focuses on visual arts, painting, sculpture, and digital art. A portfolio is typically required.
Mathematics Requirement: No specific mathematics requirement.
Bachelor of Music
This programme focuses on music theory, performance, and composition. An audition and aptitude test are required.
Mathematics Requirement: No specific mathematics requirement. For the Higher Certificate in Music Performance, the APS requirement is 20 with English at Level 4.
Bachelor of Arts in Language Practice
This programme covers translation, editing, copywriting, and language technology.
Mathematics Requirement: Mathematical Literacy is accepted.
Bachelor of Governance and Political Transformation
This programme focuses on political science, governance, and public policy.
Mathematics Requirement: Mathematical Literacy is accepted.
Faculty of Education
The Faculty of Education offers teaching qualifications that place a stronger emphasis on language proficiency and subject specialisation than on mathematics.
Bachelor of Education (BEd) Foundation Phase Teaching (Grades R to 3)
This four-year degree trains students to teach at the early primary school level, focusing on foundational literacy, numeracy, and life skills.
Mathematics Requirement: Mathematical Literacy is accepted.
Bachelor of Education (BEd) Intermediate Phase Teaching (Grades 4 to 7)
This programme prepares teachers for the intermediate primary school phase.
Mathematics Requirement: Mathematical Literacy is accepted.
Bachelor of Education (BEd) Senior Phase and FET Teaching (Grades 7 to 12)
For students who want to teach at high school level, certain subject combinations such as Languages, History, and Geography accept Mathematical Literacy. However, students choosing Mathematics as a teaching subject would need Pure Mathematics.
Mathematics Requirement: Stream-specific. Humanities streams accept Mathematical Literacy.
Faculty of Law
The Faculty of Law offers several pathways that do not require Pure Mathematics.
Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
The LLB is the professional law degree required to practice as an attorney or advocate in South Africa. This is a four-year degree covering all core areas of South African law.
Mathematics Requirement: Mathematical Literacy is accepted.
Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences
Most BCom programmes in this faculty require Pure Mathematics. However, there are accessible alternatives.
BAdmin (Bachelor of Administration) Extended Curriculum Programme
This programme focuses on public sector management, governance, and policy implementation. The extended curriculum provides additional academic support.
Mathematics Requirement: Mathematical Literacy accepted. Pure Mathematics is not required.
BCom Extended Curriculum Programme
This four-year programme provides foundational training in business and commerce for students who do not meet the requirements for the mainstream BCom degree.
Mathematics Requirement: Mathematical Literacy accepted.
Important note: Mainstream BCom programmes in Accounting, Economics, Investment Management, and Actuarial Science generally require Pure Mathematics and will not accept Mathematical Literacy.
Higher Certificate Programmes
Higher certificates are one-year programmes that serve as excellent entry points for students who may not meet degree or diploma requirements. They can also serve as pathways to further study. These programmes do not require Pure Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy.
Higher Certificate in Humanities (Communication Studies and Psychology)
This programme provides foundational knowledge in communication and psychology, preparing students for further studies in humanities.
Mathematics Requirement: No mathematics required
APS Requirement: 18
English Requirement: Level 4 (50-59%)
Other Requirements: Four subjects at Level 3 (excluding Life Orientation)
Higher Certificate in Humanities (Communication Studies and Sociology)
This programme combines communication studies with sociology, focusing on media, society, and social dynamics.
Mathematics Requirement: No mathematics required
APS Requirement: 18
English Requirement: Level 4
Other Requirements: Four subjects at Level 3
Higher Certificate in Humanities (Psychology and Sociology)
This programme focuses on human behaviour, social structures, and research methods.
Mathematics Requirement: No mathematics required
APS Requirement: 18
English Requirement: Level 4
Other Requirements: Four subjects at Level 3
Higher Certificate in Humanities (Communication Studies and Anthropology)
This programme combines communication studies with anthropology, exploring human culture and communication.
Mathematics Requirement: No mathematics required
APS Requirement: 18
English Requirement: Level 4
Other Requirements: Four subjects at Level 3
Higher Certificate in Music Performance
This programme develops skills in musical performance, music theory, and stage presentation.
Mathematics Requirement: No mathematics required
APS Requirement: 20
English Requirement: Level 4
Other Requirements: Music audition and aptitude test
Diploma Programmes
Diploma in Music
This programme focuses on music theory, performance, and practical training in instruments or voice.
Mathematics Requirement: No mathematics required
APS Requirement: 25
English Requirement: Level 4
Other Requirements: Grade 5 practical music qualification or equivalent; audition required
Extended Curriculum Programmes (ECP)
Extended Curriculum Programmes are designed for students who do not meet the standard APS requirement for certain degrees. These programmes add an extra foundation year to help students build academic skills before continuing with the full degree .
Available ECPs at UFS include:
BCom Extended Curriculum Programme
BAdmin Extended Curriculum Programme
BA Extended Curriculum Programme
BEd Extended Curriculum Programme
LLB Extended Curriculum Programme
BSc Extended Curriculum Programme (with Mathematical Literacy acceptance for some streams)
Mathematics Requirement: Mathematical Literacy accepted for most ECPs. Some ECPs may have specific mathematics requirements.
APS Requirement: Approximately 20-25 depending on the programme
English Requirement: Level 4 (50%)
Important Note on Programmes That Do NOT Accept Mathematical Literacy
For clarity, it is equally important to know which UFS courses will not accept Mathematical Literacy. Students without Pure Mathematics cannot apply for the following programmes :
BSc Programmes (mainstream) – Most BSc programmes in Chemistry, Physics, Biochemistry, Genetics, Computer Science, and Mathematics require Pure Mathematics at Level 5 (60%) or higher.
BEng in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering – This new four-year engineering degree requires Pure Mathematics and Physical Sciences.
BCom in Accounting (mainstream) – Requires Pure Mathematics.
BCom in Actuarial Science – Requires Pure Mathematics at a high level (typically Level 6 or 7).
BCom in Investment Management – Requires Pure Mathematics.
BCom in Economics (mainstream) – Requires Pure Mathematics.
BSc in Actuarial Science – Requires Pure Mathematics at Level 7 (80%+).
BSc in Mathematical Statistics – Requires Pure Mathematics.
Quick Reference Table by Qualification
| Qualification | Mathematics Requirement | APS Required |
|---|---|---|
| Higher Certificate in Humanities | No maths required | 18 |
| Higher Certificate in Music Performance | No maths required | 20 |
| Diploma in Music | No maths required | 25 |
| Bachelor of Arts (BA) | Maths Lit accepted | 30 |
| Bachelor of Social Work | Maths Lit accepted | 30 |
| Bachelor of Consumer Science | Maths Lit accepted | Check prospectus |
| Bachelor of Agriculture | Maths Lit Level 6 OR Maths Level 3 | Check prospectus |
| LLB | Maths Lit accepted | 30 |
| B.Ed. Foundation Phase | Maths Lit accepted | 30 |
| B.Ed. Intermediate Phase | Maths Lit accepted | 30 |
| BAdmin Extended Curriculum | Maths Lit accepted | 20–25 |
| BCom Extended Curriculum | Maths Lit accepted | 20–25 |
| University Access Programmes | Maths Lit accepted | Lower entry requirements |
| BSc Programmes | Maths Lit NOT accepted | Pure Maths required |
| Engineering Programmes | Maths Lit NOT accepted | Pure Maths and Physical Sciences required |
Application Tips for Students Without Pure Mathematics
1. Verify Your Specific Requirements: While this guide provides general requirements, always check the official UFS prospectus for your specific programme, as requirements can change annually.
2. Calculate Your AP Correctly: UFS uses a specific conversion table. Use the official UFS formula to calculate your Admission Point Score accurately.
3. English is Mandatory: All programmes require English Home Language at Level 4 or English First Additional Language at Level 4. Some programmes require specific levels.
4. Consider Higher Certificates First: If your AP is below 25 or you do not meet degree requirements, Higher Certificates are excellent entry points. They do not require mathematics and can lead to degree studies.
5. Extended Curriculum Programmes Are Your Friend: ECPs have lower entry requirements and provide additional academic support. They are ideal for students who need more time to adjust to university study.
6. Meeting Minimums Does Not Guarantee Admission: UFS admission is competitive, especially for high-demand courses. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee a place. Apply early.
7. Apply Early: Applications for the following academic year typically open on 1 April. UFS does not charge an application fee.
8. National Benchmark Tests (NBTs): The NBTs are compulsory for all UFS applicants. Register for and write the NBTs well before the application deadline.
How to Apply
Applications to the University of the Free State are submitted online through the official UFS website at www.ufs.ac.za. Applications open on 1 April for the following academic year.
You will need:
Your South African ID number or passport
Your Grade 11 final results or Grade 12 examination number
A unique email address and cell phone number
Certified copies of your ID and latest academic results
UFS does not charge an application fee .
For any queries, you can contact the admissions office:
General Enquiries: +27 51 401 9111
WhatsApp KovsieChat: 087 240 6370
Undergraduate Applications Email: [email protected]
Student Recruitment Services: www.ufs.ac.za/prospective
Understanding the Maths Requirement at UFS
UFS, like most South African universities, treats Mathematics and Mathematical Literacy differently for admission purposes. For many programmes in the Humanities, Education, Law, and certain Agricultural programmes, Mathematical Literacy is accepted, often with a higher achievement level required than for Pure Mathematics.
It is important to note that Mathematical Literacy is included in UFSs list of designated subjects for degree admission. This means that having Mathematical Literacy on your matric certificate does not disqualify you from degree studies, provided you meet the other requirements.
Conclusion
The University of the Free State offers genuine opportunities for students who did not take Pure Mathematics in high school. From the humanities programmes in the Faculty of Humanities to education degrees, law qualifications, and select agricultural programmes, there are multiple accredited pathways to meaningful careers.
The Faculty of Humanities provides the widest range of options, including the BA, Social Work, Communication Science, and creative arts programmes. The Faculty of Education offers BEd programmes across all phases. The Faculty of Law offers the LLB with Mathematical Literacy. The Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences offers Consumer Science, Agriculture, and Extended Curriculum Programmes. And the Higher Certificate programmes provide accessible entry points with no mathematics required at all.
However, it is crucial to note that mainstream BSc programmes, Engineering degrees, and most mainstream BCom programmes at UFS strictly require Pure Mathematics and will not accept Mathematical Literacy. Students interested in these fields should either upgrade their Mathematics qualification or consider Extended Curriculum Programmes as an alternative pathway.
The key is to identify which programme aligns with your interests and strengths, then ensure you meet the specific Mathematical Literacy and English requirements for that course. With no application fee and a commitment to accessible education through Higher Certificates and Extended Curriculum Programmes, UFS is an excellent choice for students who want to succeed without Pure Mathematics. Your matric results do not define your future, and at the University of the Free State, the door to higher education remains wide open.