Subjects Needed to Study Psychology in South Africa

If you have plans to study psychology in South Africa, then this piece is for you. Before applying for any discipline, it’s important to know the subjects and APS (Admission Point Score) required for your institution of choice. Since we can’t list the requirements for every university and college, we will just pick few popular schools. But not without highlighting the general subjects needed to Study Psychology.

What Subjects Needed to Study Psychology in South Africa

Core High School Subjects & APS Scores

To be eligible to study psychology, you’ll generally need the following subjects:

• English (Home Language or First Additional Language): Most universities look for a minimum score of 60%.
• Some universities may also require Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy.
• Admission Point Score (APS): Aim for at least a 30. Higher scores improve your chances.
• National Benchmark Test (NBT): Some institutions might require an NBT, particularly in Academic Literacy, as part of a holistic review.

Calculate your APS using our calculator

University-Specific Requirements

Since requirements differ from school to school, here’s a brief breakdown of the entry requirements at major universities in South Africa.

University of Western Cape (UWC) Psychology Requirements

• English (Home or First Additional Language): Level 4.
• Mathematics Level 3 or Mathematical Literacy Level 4.
• Any other subject excluding Life Orientation Level 4.

Click here for more information.

University of Cape Town (UCT) Psychology Requirements

Admission points are allocated using UCT’s Faculty Point Scoring (FPS) System based on the percentage obtained in:

• English Home Language or English First Additional Language
• The next five best subjects excluding
  • Life Orientation,
  • Advanced Programme Mathematics, and
  • Advanced Programme English
• Also subjects with a mark below 40% will not be considered.

Click here for more information.

University of Pretoria (UP) Psychology Requirements

• Minimum APS: 32
• English (Home Language or First Additional Language): Minimum of Level 5 (60%)
• Mathematics : Minimum of Level 5 (60%)
• Physical Sciences: Minimum of Level 5 (60%)

The APS is calculated without taking Life Orientation into account. Candidates who are still in Grade 12 must submit their final Grade 11 (or equivalent) results. Grade 12 graduates must apply with their final NSC or equivalent qualification results. More info here.

Nelson Mandela University (NMU) Psychology Requirements

To be eligible for a degree, one must fulfill the minimum NSC statutory criteria.

A minimum Applicant Score of 350 is required for applicants with NSC Grade 12 Mathematics or Technical Mathematics.
A minimum Applicant Score of 365 is required for applicants with NSC Grade 12 Mathematical Literacy.
At least a 45% NSC attainment rating in mathematics or technical mathematics, or a 65% grade in mathematical literacy.

Stellenbosch University Psychology Requirements

• English Home Language: Level 4 (50%)
• First Additional Language: Level 3 (40%)
• Mathematics: Level 4 (50%) or Mathematical Literacy: Level 6 (70%)
• An average final mark of 63% for the mainstream programme or 60-62.9% for the extended curriculum programme.

Your National Benchmark Test (NBT) scores could also be taken taken into consideration for the extended program. Higher proficiency in mathematics or mathematical literacy is required if you intend to pursue organizational informatics as an area of study. More info here.

Reminder

Note that after completing your undergraduate education, you must earn a Master’s degree if you wish to work as a psychologist in South Africa.