SPU Courses with Low APS Requirements for 2026 Applications

Sol Plaatje University (SPU) in Kimberley offers several opportunities for students who are eager to study in 2026 but may have a lower Admission Point Score (APS). Whether you didn’t achieve top marks in matric or you're looking for an alternative pathway into university, SPU has a variety of courses that accept students with APS scores from 25 and up.

Below is a list of courses with relatively low APS requirements, making them more accessible for many learners.

SPU Courses with Low APS Requirements for 2026 Applications

SPU 2026 Application Opening and Closing Dates

• Applications open: Monday, 1 April 2025
• Applications close: Tuesday, 30 September 2025

Make sure to apply early to avoid last-minute problems and to secure your spot in one of these popular programmes.

Higher Certificate Programmes (Minimum APS: 25)

1. Higher Certificate in Entrepreneurship

• Duration: 1 year
• APS: 25
• Key Subjects:
  • English HL (Level 4) or FAL (Level 5)
  • Maths (Level 3) or Maths Literacy (Level 4)
  • One of: Accounting, Business Studies, or Economics

2. Higher Certificate in Heritage Studies

• Duration: 1 year
• APS: 25
• Key Subjects:
  • English HL (Level 4) or FAL (Level 5)
  • Maths (Level 2) or Maths Literacy (Level 3)

3. Higher Certificate in Court Interpreting

• Duration: 1 year
• APS: 25
• Key Subjects:
  • English HL (Level 4) or FAL (Level 5)
  • One additional African language as HL (Level 4) or FAL (Level 5)

Diploma Programmes (Minimum APS: 25)

1. Diploma in Retail Business Management

• Duration: 3 years
• APS: 25
• Key Subjects:
  • English HL (Level 4) or FAL (Level 5)
  • Maths (Level 3) or Maths Literacy (Level 5)
  • One of: Accounting, Business Studies, or Economics (Level 4)

2. Diploma in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in Applications Development

• Duration: 3 years
• APS: 25
• Key Subjects:
  • English HL (Level 4) or FAL (Level 5)
  • Maths (Level 3) or Maths Literacy (Level 5)
  • Recommended: CAT or IT in Matric

3. Diploma in Agriculture

• Duration: 3 years
• APS: 25
• Key Subjects:
  • English HL (Level 4) or FAL (Level 5)
  • Maths (Level 3) or Maths Literacy (Level 5)
  • Physical Science (Level 3)
  • Life Sciences or Agricultural Sciences (Level 3)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is APS and how is it calculated at SPU?

SPU uses your NSC results to calculate an Admission Point Score (APS). Each subject is assigned a point value based on your achievement level. Life Orientation only contributes a maximum of 4 points. Bonus points may be added for English and Mathematics.

2. Can I apply with a Higher Certificate pass?

Yes, but only for Higher Certificate programmes. If you want to study for a Diploma or Bachelor's degree, you must have the relevant NSC pass.

3. What if I don’t meet the APS requirement?

You may still qualify through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) or mature age exemption, depending on your work experience or previous studies. Contact SPU for guidance.

4. Can I study further after a Higher Certificate?

Yes. A Higher Certificate can be used to apply for certain Diplomas or Degrees later, especially if you perform well.

5. Does SPU offer NSFAS funding for these courses?

Yes, all these programmes are funded by NSFAS if you qualify. Be sure to apply for funding on time via the NSFAS website.

Conclusion

Not everyone takes the same path to university, and that’s okay. These SPU programmes are designed to give you a second chance — or even a strong first step — into higher education and a better future. If your APS is 25 or higher, you still have a range of quality qualifications to choose from at SPU.

For more details and to apply, visit the official website: www.spu.ac.za