Question 1

What is APS and how is it calculated?

Accepted Answer

APS (Admission Point Score) is a number from 0–42 that South African universities use to decide if you qualify for a course. We add up the points for your 6 best matric subjects (excluding Life Orientation): 80%+ = 7 pts, 70–79 = 6, 60–69 = 5, 50–59 = 4, 40–49 = 3, 30–39 = 2, 0–29 = 1.

Question 2

Why is Life Orientation excluded?

Accepted Answer

Most universities don't count Life Orientation in your APS, or they count it at half value. We exclude it from the standard total to give you the most widely-accepted score.

Question 3

Do I need an APS to apply?

Accepted Answer

You need an APS to know which courses you qualify for, but TVET colleges and many Higher Certificates accept lower scores. Use 'Find my course' to see your matches.

Question 4

What does ApplyVate cost?

Accepted Answer

We charge R75 for 2 applications on your behalf. Application fees from the institution itself (if any) are separate and paid directly to them.

Question 5

How does the 'Apply for me' service work?

Accepted Answer

Tap any 'Apply for me' button — it opens WhatsApp with your details pre-filled. Our team replies, takes your documents, fills in the application form and submits it for you.

Question 6

What documents do I need to apply?

Accepted Answer

Usually: certified copy of your ID, certified Grade 11 final and Grade 12 June reports (or your matric certificate), and proof of residence. We'll tell you exactly what's needed for your chosen courses.

Question 7

When do applications close?

Accepted Answer

Most SA universities close in September of the year before you study. UNISA and some TVET colleges have rolling intakes. We'll tell you the deadline for each course you're applying to.

Question 8

What if my APS isn't high enough?

Accepted Answer

Check the 'Almost qualified' section on your results page — sometimes a single subject mark or 1–2 APS points is the only thing in the way. You can also start with a Higher Certificate or Diploma and articulate up to a degree.

Question 9

Can I apply if I'm a gap-year or returning student?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Use your final matric marks. UNISA and TVET colleges are great for returning students because they offer flexible distance learning.

Question 10

Is my information safe?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We only share your details with the institutions you ask us to apply to. We never sell your data.

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