Top 10 South African Universities That Accept Low APS Scores in 2026

Not every student finishes high school with high Admission Point Scores (APS). But that doesn’t mean university is out of reach. Many South African universities offer accessible qualifications that accept lower APS scores—especially through Higher Certificates, Diplomas, or Foundation Programmes.

If you’re looking to further your studies in 2026 despite a low APS, here are 10 universities to consider.

Top 10 South African Universities That Accept Low APS Scores in 2026

1. University of South Africa (UNISA)

UNISA is one of the most accessible universities in the country. It offers a wide range of Higher Certificates and Diplomas that require APS scores as low as 15–19.

• Type of Programmes: Distance learning
• Ideal For: Students working full-time or needing flexible study options
• Apply Between: 18 August – 10 October 2025

2. University of Zululand (UNIZULU)

UNIZULU offers several programmes with moderate APS requirements, especially in the Humanities and Education faculties.

• Minimum APS: 20–24 for many Diplomas and BA programmes
• Foundation Programmes: Available for students with slightly lower results

3. Walter Sisulu University (WSU)

WSU is known for providing opportunities to students from rural and disadvantaged backgrounds. Many of its diploma courses accept APS scores from 18–24.

• Popular Fields: Health Sciences, Business, Education, and Engineering

4. Vaal University of Technology (VUT)

VUT offers practical, career-focused Diplomas in fields like Engineering, IT, and Business.

• Minimum APS: Around 19–22 depending on the programme
• Supportive of: TVET college graduates and students with technical skills

5. Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)

TUT offers a wide selection of Diplomas and Higher Certificates with minimum APS requirements from 18 upwards.

• Popular Courses: Policing, Legal Assistance, Office Management
• Bridge Courses: Available for students who need extra academic support

6. Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)

MUT provides industry-aligned qualifications and prioritises access for students with lower academic results.

• APS Scores: Many Diploma courses require 18–22
• Hands-on Focus: Strong practical and technical learning environment

7. Durban University of Technology (DUT)

DUT has competitive programmes but still offers some Diplomas and extended curriculum programmes (ECP) for students with APS scores below 24.

• Entry Routes: Some courses allow for entrance with support programmes
• Fields: Arts, Business, Engineering, Health

Universities Still Open for 2026 Applications!!!

• Vaal University of Technology (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• Walter Sisulu University (Closing Date: 31 October 2025)
• University of Mpumalanga (Closing Date: 30 November 2025)
• University of Cape Town (Closing Date: 31 July 2025)
• Stellenbosch University (Closing Date: 31 July 2025)
• North West University (Closing Date: 31 August 2025)
• Tshwane University of Technology (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• University of Free State (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• University of Limpopo (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• University of Venda (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• Cape Peninsula University of Technology (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• Central University of Technology (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• University of Johannesburg (Closing Date: 31 October 2025)
• Nelson Mandela University (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• University of Witwatersrand (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• University of Western Cape (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• Sefako Makgatho University (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• University of KwaZulu-Natal (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• Durban University of Technology (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• University of Zululand (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• Mangosuthu University of Technology (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• Sol Plaatje University (Closing Date: 30 November 2025)

8. Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)

CPUT combines academic learning with practical skills and offers opportunities for students with APS as low as 20 in some fields.

• Fields: Design, Hospitality, Engineering, Education
• Extended Programmes: Designed to support students with borderline scores

9. University of Limpopo (UL)

UL serves many first-generation university students and offers various programmes with lower APS thresholds, particularly in Education and Social Sciences.

• APS Requirements: Start from 20 in some faculties
• Bridging or Foundation Year: May be offered for additional academic support

10. North-West University (NWU) – Vaal Campus

NWU has one of the best support systems for students and offers Extended Degree Programmes for those who don’t meet standard APS requirements.

• APS for Extended Programmes: From 22–24
• Support: Academic Development and Support Centres

What to Do If Your APS Is Too Low?

If your APS is below the requirement for your desired course:

• Apply for a Higher Certificate in a related field (especially at UNISA, TUT, or VUT)
• Consider Extended Curriculum Programmes (ECP)
• Take a bridging course or upgrade your NSC results through a matric rewrite or adult matric
• Explore TVET Colleges as a stepping stone

Conclusion 

A low APS is not the end of the road. Many South African universities are committed to inclusive access and offer programmes designed to help students succeed—regardless of their matric performance.

Start exploring your options early and apply as soon as applications open in 2025. The right support system, course selection, and motivation can still take you far.