Walter Sisulu University (WSU) is one of South Africa’s leading institutions, offering a wide range of academic programs. If you are considering applying to WSU, it is essential to know the admission requirements for various qualifications. This guide will provide you with an in-depth understanding of WSU’s admission criteria, including those for higher certificates, diplomas, bachelor’s degrees, and information for international students or those with mature age endorsements.

Minimum Admission Requirements at WSU

WSU’s admission requirements are aligned with the guidelines set out by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) as well as the university’s own qualifications-specific standards.

1. Higher Certificate Programmes

• Minimum Requirement:
  • A National Senior Certificate (NSC) with at least 30% in the language of learning and teaching at WSU.
  • Additional subjects and levels of achievement may be required depending on the program.

2. Diploma Programmes

• Minimum Requirement:
  • A National Senior Certificate (NSC) with 30% in the language of learning and teaching.
  • At least a 40-49% achievement rating (level 3) in four recognized 20-credit subjects, excluding Life Orientation.
  • Specific programs may have additional subject combinations and levels of achievement required.

3. Bachelor’s Degree Programmes

• Minimum Requirement:
  • A National Senior Certificate (NSC) with 30% in the language of learning and teaching.
  • A 50-59% achievement rating (level 4) in four recognized 20-credit subjects, excluding Life Orientation.
  • As with other qualifications, specific degrees may require additional subject combinations and achievement levels.

International Students Admission Requirements

• Students with international qualifications are assessed according to the Higher Education South Africa (HESA) guidelines. International students may need to submit their qualifications to the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) for benchmarking.
• WSU’s International Office provides support and guidance for international applicants.

Mature Age Endorsements

Mature students who do not meet the traditional entry requirements but are 23 years or older may apply for admission under the Mature Age Endorsement provision. The university has specific rules governing this process, as outlined in Rule 1.13 of the General Prospectus.

• Diploma Programmes: Applicants need a National Senior Certificate (NSC) with at least a diploma endorsement.
• Degree Programmes: Applicants need a National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a Bachelor’s endorsement.

WSU APS Conversion Table: Calculating Your Admission Point Score (APS)

WSU uses the Admission Point Score (APS) system to evaluate applicants based on their NSC or Senior Certificate performance. The APS is calculated by adding the points for your best six subjects (or seven for Education programs) using WSU’s APS conversion table.

• How APS is Calculated:
  • Each subject’s percentage is converted into a point score based on WSU’s APS table.
  • Category 1: Includes two languages (Home Language and First Additional Language).
  • Category 2: Four subjects with the highest scores, excluding Life Orientation.
  • Category 3: Life Orientation is only included for Education-related qualifications.

For example, an applicant scoring between 80-89% for a subject will receive 7 APS points according to the conversion table.

Faculty-Specific Requirements

Different faculties at WSU have additional requirements, and prospective students must ensure they meet both the general and program-specific criteria.

WSU Faculties:

• Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment, and IT
• Faculty of Management and Public Administration Sciences
• Faculty of Economic and Financial Sciences
• Faculty of Law, Humanities, and Social Sciences
• Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences
• Faculty of Natural Sciences
• Faculty of Education

Each faculty may have different subject combinations or achievement levels necessary for entry, so it’s important to consult WSU’s prospectus or departmental requirements.

Conclusion

Walter Sisulu University offers a range of academic opportunities, but meeting the minimum entry requirements is essential to securing a place. Whether you are pursuing a higher certificate, diploma, or degree, it is crucial to understand the specific admission requirements for your chosen program. International students and those applying through mature age endorsements should also follow the respective guidelines for a successful application.