UL Admission requirements

Understanding the admission requirements is the first step in your academic journey. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential criteria and help you determine if you meet the qualifications for your desired programme. Whether you’re a recent high school graduate or an adult learner with vocational qualifications, this guide has you covered.

Matriculation Certificate (Pre-2008)

For students who completed Grade 12 before 2008, UL accepts applications with a Senior Certificate that includes full university exemption. The admission process involves converting your grade symbols to an Admission Point Score (APS), a crucial element in determining eligibility for university programmes.

National Senior Certificate (NSC) Requirements

If you completed Grade 12 in or after 2008, you’ll need to meet the following basic requirements for undergraduate programmes:

  • Life Orientation: Achieve at least an APS level of 3.
  • English Language: UL requires a minimum level of 3, as it is the primary language of instruction.
  • Specific Subject Requirements: Each faculty has different subject-specific requirements. For most degree programmes, you must score at least 4 in four 20-credit subjects. For diploma programmes, the minimum score is 3 in the relevant subjects.

Note: Meeting these minimum requirements doesn’t guarantee admission but ensures eligibility for consideration.

Admission Point Score (APS) System

The APS system is used to assess your academic performance. It takes into account your NSC results or Grade 12 university exemption results. The APS is calculated by adding the achievement levels in six subjects (excluding Life Orientation). The higher your score, the better your chances of securing a spot in your preferred programme.

APS Conversion Table

NSC Achievement LevelPercentage RangeAPS Points
780-99%7
670-79%6
560-69%5
450-59%4
340-49%3
230-39%2
10-29%1

For example, if you scored a 6 in Mathematics, a 7 in Life Science, and a 5 in Physical Science, your APS would be the sum of these values, giving you a clearer idea of whether you meet the programme requirements.

National Certificate (Vocational) [NC(V)] Admission Requirements

If you hold a National Certificate Vocational (NC(V)), here’s what you’ll need:

  • For degree programmes, a NC(V) Level 4 with 60% in three fundamental subjects and 70% in four vocational subjects is required.
  • For diploma programmes, you need 50% in three fundamental subjects and 60% in three vocational subjects.

You’ll also be subject to Faculty Admission Specifications and may need to take Placement Tests.

Extended Curriculum Programmes (ECPs)

If you don’t meet the standard admission requirements, you may qualify for one of UL’s Extended Curriculum Programmes (ECPs). These are designed to give students an additional year to complete their undergraduate studies while ensuring mastery of key learning outcomes. The results of your Placement Test will play a significant role in determining eligibility for these programmes.

International Applicants & Qualifications

If you completed your high school education outside South Africa, you’ll need to have your qualification verified by Higher Education South Africa (HESA). This step ensures that your qualifications meet the standards set by UL. Additionally, you can reach the International Office at +27 (0) 15 268 3046 for further assistance.

Placement Test & National Benchmarking Tests

All prospective students must take the National Benchmarking Tests at UL. The results help in profiling students for research purposes and determining any necessary academic support, especially for students who may require assistance through the Extended Curriculum Programmes.

Need Information or Confused about Something ?

Ask a Question

FAQs

  • What is the minimum APS required for admission?
    The APS varies depending on the programme. You can check the specific requirements in the university’s faculty calendars.
  • Is Life Orientation included in the APS calculation?
    No, Life Orientation is not included in your APS calculation.
  • Do international students need to meet the same APS requirements?
    Yes, but their qualifications must first be verified by HESA.

 

Sponsored Guide

Complete Guide to NSFAS Online Loan Application for South African Students (2025)

If you are a South African student looking to pursue higher education but are facing financial difficulties, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is one of the most accessible funding options available. NSFAS provides financial aid in the form of bursaries and loans to qualifying students at public universities and TVET colleges in South Africa.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the NSFAS loan application process, from eligibility requirements to application steps and frequently asked questions.

📌 What is NSFAS?

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government-funded financial aid scheme aimed at helping students from low- and middle-income households to access tertiary education without the burden of upfront fees.

NSFAS offers both bursaries and income-contingent loans:

  • Bursaries: For eligible students who meet academic and household income criteria (especially for TVET and university students).
  • Loans: For students who do not meet all bursary criteria or who are pursuing postgraduate qualifications not funded under bursary schemes.

✅ Who Qualifies for an NSFAS Loan?

To qualify for an NSFAS loan (especially for postgraduate students or programs not funded under the bursary system), you must:

  • Be a South African citizen.
  • Be financially needy, with a household income of less than R350,000 per year.
  • Have a valid South African ID.
  • Be enrolled or accepted to study at a public university or TVET college.
  • Not be funded through another bursary program that covers all expenses.
  • Maintain satisfactory academic progress (returning students).

📚 Courses Funded by NSFAS

NSFAS primarily funds undergraduate qualifications, but certain postgraduate programs (e.g., PGCE, postgraduate diplomas in education, and professional courses like LLB) may be considered under the NSFAS loan scheme, not bursaries.

If you’re studying:

  • Undergraduate degree or diploma: You are likely eligible for a full NSFAS bursary.
  • Postgraduate study: You may qualify for a loan, depending on the course and funding availability.

📄 Required Documents for NSFAS Application

When applying, make sure you have the following documents scanned and ready:

  1. Certified copy of your South African ID or Smart Card.
  2. Parent(s) or guardian(s) ID documents.
  3. Proof of income (latest payslips, UIF, or affidavit if unemployed).
  4. Consent Form signed by your parent(s)/guardian(s) to allow NSFAS to verify income.
  5. Proof of registration or acceptance at a public institution.
  6. Academic transcripts (for continuing or postgraduate students).

🖥️ How to Apply for an NSFAS Loan Online

Step-by-Step NSFAS Online Application Process (2025)

  1. Visit the NSFAS Website

    Go to: https://www.nsfas.org.za

  2. Create an Account

    • Click on “MyNSFAS” and register your profile.
    • You’ll need a valid email address and South African cellphone number.
    • Choose a strong password and verify your account via email or SMS.

  3. Login and Start the Application

    • After registration, log in to your MyNSFAS account.
    • Click on “Apply” to begin a new application.

  4. Fill in Your Personal Details

    • Input your ID number, name, surname, and other details exactly as they appear on your ID.
    • Provide household income information and living arrangements.

  5. Upload Required Documents

    • Upload all supporting documents in PDF or JPEG format.
    • Each document must be clear and under the size limit specified.

  6. Submit Your Application

    • Review your application for accuracy.
    • Click “Submit” and wait for a confirmation message.

  7. Track Your Application

    • Log in regularly to check your application status.
    • You will be notified via SMS and email at each stage of the process.

🗓️ Important NSFAS Dates (2025)

  • Application Opening Date: September 1, 2025
  • Application Deadline: January 31, 2026
  • Appeals Period: February 2026 (if rejected)
  • Disbursement: After registration and approval

Note: Dates are subject to change; always confirm on the official NSFAS website.

💸 What Does the NSFAS Loan Cover?

NSFAS funding typically includes:

  • Tuition fees
  • Registration fees
  • Accommodation (if living away from home)
  • Meals and transport
  • Learning materials (e.g., textbooks)

For loans, repayment is only required once you start working and earn above a threshold (around R30,000 annually, but subject to change).

🔄 NSFAS Loan Repayment

Repayments are:

  • Income-contingent – you only repay when you can afford to.
  • Administered by DHET (Department of Higher Education and Training).
  • Interest-bearing, but interest rates are low and favorable.

You can also apply for a partial loan conversion to a bursary if you perform well academically.

🔁 How to Appeal a Rejected NSFAS Application

If your application is rejected, you may submit an appeal via your MyNSFAS portal:

  1. Log into your MyNSFAS account.
  2. Click on “Track Funding Progress”.
  3. If rejected, click on “Submit Appeal”.
  4. Upload any missing or corrected documents.
  5. Provide a clear explanation or motivation.

📱 NSFAS Contact Information

📝 Final Tips Before Applying

  • Apply early to avoid system overload near the deadline.
  • Use your own email and cellphone number (do not use someone else’s).
  • Double-check that all your documents are certified and legible.
  • Keep a copy of your submission confirmation for reference.

By following this guide, you can confidently apply for NSFAS funding and move one step closer to achieving your academic and career dreams—without the burden of immediate financial pressure.

 

Related Posts: