Dlamini BlessingFor many South African students, receiving a low Admission Point Score (APS) after matric can feel like a closed door to higher education. The good news is that the University of South Africa (UNISA) offers numerous courses with accessible APS requirements, particularly through its Higher Certificate programmes. UNISA is the largest open distance learning institution in Africa, serving over 300,000 students annually, and its flexible study model allows you to pursue your qualification while working or managing other responsibilities .
This guide covers everything you need to know about low APS courses at UNISA, including admission requirements, specific programmes, application dates, and tips for success.
Low APS Score Courses at UNISA
Higher Certificate Programmes (APS 15-18)
Higher Certificates are the most accessible entry point at UNISA. These are NQF Level 5 qualifications consisting of 120 credits, typically completed within one year (maximum three years) . They are designed to provide foundational knowledge in specific fields and serve as stepping stones to diploma or degree programmes.
Minimum APS: 15
Higher Certificate in Physical Sciences (90101)
This programme covers chemistry, physics, and general science basics. It serves as a foundation for further studies in science, engineering, and technology .
Mathematics Requirement: 40% in Mathematics
APS Requirement: 15
What comes next? Diplomas and Bachelor of Science degrees in Engineering (Chemical, Electrical, Mechanical, Civil, Mining, Industrial), Information Technology, or Computer Science
Higher Certificate in Accounting Sciences (98201)
This programme teaches basic accounting, finance, and business management. It is an excellent starting point for students interested in pursuing careers in accounting and finance .
Mathematics Requirement: None specified
APS Requirement: 15
What comes next? Advanced Certificate in Accounting Sciences, Bachelor degrees in Financial Accounting, Internal Auditing, Management Accounting, or Taxation
Higher Certificate in Economic and Management Sciences (98237)
This programme provides a general business and economics foundation. It is ideal for students who want to explore business studies before committing to a specific degree .
Mathematics Requirement: None specified
APS Requirement: 15
What comes next? Same options as Accounting Sciences, plus Diploma in Accounting Sciences
Higher Certificate in Banking (98225)
This programme focuses on banking, finance, and money management. It prepares students for entry-level roles in the banking sector .
Mathematics Requirement: None specified
APS Requirement: 15
What comes next? Various business diplomas and Bachelor of Commerce degrees
Higher Certificate in Marketing (98229)
This programme covers advertising, selling, customer relations, and marketing principles. It is designed for students interested in careers in sales and marketing .
Mathematics Requirement: None specified
APS Requirement: 15
What comes next? Diploma in Marketing Management and Bachelor of Commerce in Marketing
Higher Certificate in Retailing (90014)
This programme teaches retail operations, store management, and customer service. It prepares students for careers in the retail industry .
Mathematics Requirement: None specified
APS Requirement: 15
What comes next? Diploma in Retail Management and various business degrees
Higher Certificate in Tourism Management (98226)
This programme covers hotels, travel operations, and the tourism industry. It is ideal for students interested in hospitality and tourism careers .
Mathematics Requirement: None specified
APS Requirement: 15
What comes next? Diploma in Tourism Management and Bachelor of Commerce in Tourism
Higher Certificate in Education (90093)
This programme prepares students to become teachers. Students must pass the module MTE1501 to continue to teaching degrees .
Mathematics Requirement: None specified
APS Requirement: 15
What comes next? Bachelor of Education in Foundation Phase (Grades R-3), Intermediate Phase (Grades 4-6), or Senior Phase and FET (Grades 7-12)
Higher Certificate in Criminal Justice (90006)
This programme covers crime, the justice system, and law enforcement basics. It is an excellent entry point for students interested in legal or law enforcement careers .
Mathematics Requirement: None specified
APS Requirement: 15
What comes next? Any law diploma or degree at UNISA
Higher Certificate in Law (98751)
This programme provides an introduction to legal studies. It is designed for students who want to pursue careers in law but do not yet meet LLB requirements .
Mathematics Requirement: None specified
APS Requirement: 15
What comes next? Diploma in Law, Policing, Corrections Management, or Security Management; Bachelor degrees in Criminology, Forensic Science, Police Science, or Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
Higher Certificate in Social Auxiliary Work (90011)
This programme trains students to help people and communities with social problems. It is a pathway to becoming a social worker .
Mathematics Requirement: None specified
APS Requirement: 15
What comes next? Bachelor of Social Work
Higher Certificate in Archives and Records Management (98577)
This programme teaches students to organise and manage information and documents. It is ideal for students interested in library and information science careers .
Mathematics Requirement: None specified
APS Requirement: 15
What comes next? Bachelor of Arts degrees in Communication Science, Community Development, Development Studies, International Relations, Political Leadership, or Bachelor of Information Science
Higher Certificate in Animal Welfare (90098)
This programme focuses on animal care and protection. It is designed for students passionate about working with animals .
Mathematics Requirement: None specified
APS Requirement: 15
What comes next? Diploma in Animal Health
Higher Certificate in Life and Environmental Sciences (98366)
This programme covers plants, animals, and environmental conservation. It provides a foundation for further studies in agriculture and environmental management .
Mathematics Requirement: None specified
APS Requirement: 15
What comes next? Diploma in Nature Conservation, Diploma in Horticulture, Diploma in Animal Health, or Bachelor degrees in Agricultural Science, Environmental Management, or Life Sciences
Higher Certificate in Supervisory Management (90015)
This programme prepares students to become team leaders or supervisors. It focuses on management skills and workplace leadership .
Mathematics Requirement: None specified
APS Requirement: 15
What comes next? Management diplomas and Bachelor of Business Administration
Diploma Programmes (APS 18-21)
Diplomas are more specialised than Higher Certificates and typically take three years to complete. They balance academic knowledge with practical training, making them ideal for career-focused students .
Diploma in Law
This programme provides comprehensive legal training for students who want to work as paralegals or legal assistants.
APS Requirement: 18-20
Mathematics Requirement: None
Diploma in Policing
This programme prepares students for careers in law enforcement, including police services and private security.
APS Requirement: 18-20
Mathematics Requirement: None
Diploma in Corrections Management
This programme focuses on correctional services, rehabilitation, and prison management.
APS Requirement: 18-20
Mathematics Requirement: None
Diploma in Security Management
This programme covers security operations, risk management, and security planning.
APS Requirement: 18-20
Mathematics Requirement: None
Diploma in Tourism Management
This programme provides specialised training in travel operations, hospitality, and tourism marketing.
APS Requirement: 18-20
Mathematics Requirement: None
Diploma in Public Relations
This programme focuses on corporate communication, media relations, and public relations strategies.
APS Requirement: 18-20
Mathematics Requirement: None
Bachelor’s Degree Programmes (APS 20-25)
Bachelor’s degrees typically take three to four years to complete and serve as gateways to professional careers or postgraduate study .
Bachelor of Arts (General)
This flexible degree offers majors in languages, history, psychology, sociology, and other humanities disciplines.
APS Requirement: 20-22
Mathematics Requirement: None
Bachelor of Arts in Communication Science
This programme focuses on media studies, corporate communication, and journalism.
APS Requirement: 20-22
Mathematics Requirement: None
Bachelor of Arts in Criminology
This programme covers crime theory, criminal behaviour, and the justice system.
APS Requirement: 20-22
Mathematics Requirement: None
Bachelor of Arts in Forensic Science and Technology
This programme combines forensic investigation with scientific principles.
APS Requirement: 20-22
Mathematics Requirement: None
Bachelor of Arts in Police Science
This programme focuses on policing strategies, criminal procedure, and law enforcement.
APS Requirement: 20-22
Mathematics Requirement: None
Bachelor of Social Work
This professional degree prepares students to become registered social workers.
APS Requirement: 22-24
Mathematics Requirement: None
Additional Requirements: Police clearance certificate and two testimonials
Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
This four-year degree is the professional qualification required to practice as an attorney or advocate.
APS Requirement: 22-24
Mathematics Requirement: None
Bachelor of Education (Senior Phase and FET)
This programme prepares teachers for high school level (Grades 7-12). Specialisations include Art, Life Orientation, Agriculture, Management, Languages, IT, Consumer Studies, Tourism, Geography, and Religious Studies .
APS Requirement: 22-24
Mathematics Requirement: None
Bachelor of Music
This programme focuses on music theory, performance, and composition.
APS Requirement: 20-22
Mathematics Requirement: None
Bachelor of Theology
This programme covers religious studies, ministry, and pastoral care.
APS Requirement: 20-22
Mathematics Requirement: None
General Admission Requirements for Low APS Courses
To be considered for admission to any UNISA programme, you must meet the following minimum requirements :
For Higher Certificates
A National Senior Certificate (NSC) with at least 30% in the language of teaching and learning (English)
A Senior Certificate with at least 30% on Higher Grade or 40% on Standard Grade in the language of teaching
A National Certificate (Vocational) Level 4 with at least 30% in the language of teaching
Minimum APS of 15
For Diplomas
A National Senior Certificate with a Diploma endorsement
At least 30% in English
40% or better in four recognised 20-credit subjects
For Bachelor’s Degrees
A National Senior Certificate with a Bachelor’s endorsement
At least 30% in English
50% or better in four recognised 20-credit subjects
Courses That Do Not Require Mathematics
One of the biggest advantages of studying at UNISA is the wide range of courses that do not require Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy for admission . This makes these programmes highly accessible to students who struggled with maths in high school.
Higher Certificates Without Maths Requirements
Higher Certificate in Accounting Sciences
Higher Certificate in Animal Welfare
Higher Certificate in Banking
Higher Certificate in Criminal Justice
Higher Certificate in Economic and Management Sciences
Higher Certificate in Education
Higher Certificate in Law
Higher Certificate in Life and Environmental Sciences
Higher Certificate in Marketing
Higher Certificate in Retailing
Higher Certificate in Social Auxiliary Work
Higher Certificate in Tourism Management
Diplomas Without Maths Requirements
Diploma in Tourism Management
Diploma in Public Relations
Diploma in Corrections Management
Diploma in Law
Diploma in Policing
Diploma in Security Management
Bachelor’s Degrees Without Maths Requirements
Bachelor of Arts (General)
Bachelor of Arts in Communication Science
Bachelor of Arts in Community Development
Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing
Bachelor of Arts in Criminology
Bachelor of Arts in Development Studies
Bachelor of Arts in Forensic Science and Technology
Bachelor of Arts in International Relations
Bachelor of Arts in Police Science
Bachelor of Arts in Visual Multimedia Arts
Bachelor of Information Science
Bachelor of Music
Bachelor of Social Work
Bachelor of Theology
Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
How to Apply
Application Fee
The application fee for online applications is R150 (non-refundable) .
Payment can be made via credit card, debit card, bank deposit, or electronic funds transfer (EFT) .
Use your student number as the reference when making payment.
Keep proof of payment as it may be required for verification.
Required Documents
When applying, you will need certified copies (not older than three months) of the following :
Your South African ID or passport
Your National Senior Certificate (matric certificate) or latest Grade 12 results
Academic transcripts (if you have studied at another institution)
Proof of payment of the application fee
Step-by-Step Application Process
Follow these steps to apply to UNISA:
Step 1: Visit the UNISA application website at www.unisa.ac.za/apply
Step 2: Select “Undergraduate Qualifications” from the application options
Step 3: Choose your qualification (Higher Certificate, Diploma, or Bachelor’s degree)
Step 4: Complete the online application form with your personal and academic details
Step 5: Upload certified copies of all required documents
Step 6: Pay the R150 application fee
Step 7: Submit your application and save your reference number
What Happens After You Apply
Once you have submitted your application, UNISA will assess it based on the following criteria :
Whether you meet the academic admission requirements for your chosen qualification
Your minimum APS score
The number of spaces available for the qualification
Processing can take up to three months. If you are offered a space, you will receive an email notification. You must accept or decline the offer within the prescribed timeframe (usually 10 calendar days) .
First-time UNISA applicants must complete the First-Year Experience MOOC (massive open online course) before they can accept an offer .
Tips for Students with Low APS Scores
Start with a Higher Certificate
If your APS is too low for a diploma or degree, start with a Higher Certificate. These programmes have lower entry requirements (APS 15) and serve as stepping stones to higher qualifications. Upon completion, you can often articulate into a diploma or degree programme with credits transferred .
Choose a Programme Without Maths Requirements
Many UNISA programmes do not require Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy for admission. Focus on these programmes in Humanities, Law, Education, Social Sciences, and Business fields .
Apply Early
UNISA operates on a space-available basis. Applying early increases your chances of being offered a place, even if you only meet the minimum requirements .
Ensure Your Application is Complete
Incomplete applications will not be processed. Double-check that you have uploaded all required documents and paid the application fee before the closing date .
Consider TVET Colleges as an Alternative
If you do not meet UNISA’s requirements, TVET colleges offer NATED (N4-N6) and NC(V) courses that accept lower entry requirements, including Grade 9 passes .
Quick Reference Table
| Qualification Type | Minimum APS | Typical Duration | NQF Level | Progression Pathway |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Higher Certificate | 15 | 1 year | Level 5 | Leads to Diploma or Degree |
| Diploma | 18–20 | 3 years | Level 6 | Leads to Advanced Diploma or Degree |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 20–25 | 3–4 years | Level 7 | Leads to Honours or Postgraduate study |
Understanding APS at UNISA
What is APS?
Your Admission Point Score (APS) is calculated from your National Senior Certificate (NSC) results. Each subject percentage is converted into points, and these points are added together to give your total APS. Life Orientation is often excluded from this calculation.
UNISA APS Scoring Table (Typical)
Percentage (%) / APS Points
80-100 / 7
70-79 / 6
60-69 / 5
50-59 / 4
40-49 / 3
30-39 / 2
0-29 / 1
Low APS Range at UNISA
At UNISA, a low APS generally ranges between 15 and 20 points. The minimum APS requirement for most Higher Certificate programmes is 15 . For diploma and degree programmes, the requirements are typically higher, ranging from 18 to 25 or more.
Important Note: Meeting the minimum APS does not guarantee admission. UNISA operates on a space-available basis, and oversubscribed programmes may require a higher APS for acceptance .
Conclusion
A low APS score does not have to end your dream of higher education. UNISA offers numerous accessible pathways through its Higher Certificate programmes, which require a minimum APS of just 15. These programmes serve as excellent stepping stones to diplomas and degrees, allowing you to build your qualifications over time.
For students without Mathematics, UNISA provides an extensive range of courses across Humanities, Law, Education, Social Sciences, and Business fields that have no mathematics requirements at all . The key is to start where you are, choose a programme that matches your strengths, apply early, and use the Higher Certificate as a foundation for future success.