What Subjects Are Needed to Become a Mechanical Engineer in South Africa

If you’re aiming to become a mechanical engineer in South Africa, you need a solid academic foundation to make it happen. But most importantly it’s important to know the subjects and APS (Admission Point Score) required for different institutions. 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 become a mechanical engineer.

What Subjects Are Needed to Become a Mechanical Engineer in South Africa

Core High School Subjects & APS Scores

Mathematics: This a compulsory subject for all engineering programmes, with a minimum level usually required between Level 4 (50%) and Level 5 (60%).
Physical Sciences: This is another core and required subject, with the same minimum score level as Mathematics.
English: Vital for communication and comprehension, requiring at least Level 4 (50%) or, in some cases, Level 5 (60%)

There is an important thing to note: The APS score for different institutions varies.

For example, universities like the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) set a high standard with a minimum APS of 42 and require Level 5 (60%) in English, Mathematics, and Physical Sciences. Stronger scores in these subjects (such as Level 6) can increase admission your chances.

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 Cape Town (UCT) Mechanical Engineering Requirements

Minimum APS: Competitive, with higher scores improving acceptance chances.
Mathematics: Level 6 (70%) or above.
Physical Sciences: Level 6 (70%) or above.
English: Level 5 (60%) minimum, in either Home Language or First Additional Language.

Higher scores in these subjects will enhance your chance of securing admission. More info here.

University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) Mechanical Engineering Requirements

Minimum APS: 42 and above
English Home Language or First Additional Language: Level 5 (60%)
Mathematics: Level 5 (60%)
Physical Sciences: Level 5 (60%)

While the minimum requirement is Level 5 in English, Mathematics, and Physical Sciences, applicants with Level 6 in these subjects have a higher likelihood of being accepted. More info here.

University of Johannesburg (UJ) Mechanical Engineering Requirements

Minimum APS: 32
English: Level 5 (60%)
Mathematics: Level 5 (60%)
Physical Sciences: Level 5 (60%)

You need a strong performance in these subjects is essential for admission. More info here.

Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) Mechanical Engineering Requirements

Diploma in Mechanical Engineering:

APS: Minimum of 22
Mathematics: Level 4 (50%) or higher
Physical Sciences: Level 4 (50%) or higher
English: Level 4 (50%) or higher

Bachelor of Engineering Technology in Mechanical Engineering:

APS: 28 or higher
Mathematics: Level 5 (60%)
Physical Sciences: Level 5 (60%)
English: Level 4 (50%)

For more information refer to TUT Prospectus.

Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) Mechanical Engineering Requirements

Diploma in Mechanical Engineering:

APS: Around 28
Mathematics: Minimum Level 4 (50%)
Physical Sciences: Minimum Level 4 (50%)
English: Minimum Level 4 (50%)

Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering:

APS: 30+
Mathematics and Physical Sciences: Usually Level 5 (60%) or above
English: Minimum Level 4 (50%)

You need a strong performance in these subjects is essential for admission. More info here.

Vaal University of Technology (VUT) Mechanical Engineering Requirements

Diploma in Mechanical Engineering

APS: 24+
Mathematics: Level 4 (50%)
Physical Sciences: Level 4 (50%)
English: Level 4 (50%)

Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering

APS: 27
Mathematics: Level 5 (60%)
Physical Sciences: Level 5 (60%)
English: Level 4 (50%)

Applicants with a National Certificate (Vocational) must also have a bachelor’s pass, achieving a minimum of 50% in English, Mathematics, and Physical Sciences. More info here.

Durban University of Technology (DUT) Mechanical Engineering Requirements

Minimum APS: 24+
English: Level 4 (50%)
Mathematics: Level 5 (60%)
Physical Science: Level 5 (60%)

More here.

Central University of Technology (CUT) Mechanical Engineering Requirements

Diploma in Mechanical Engineering

Minimum APS: 27+
English: Level 5 (60%)
Mathematics: Level 5 (60%)
Physical Science: Level 5 (60%)

For precise requirements, please visit CUT’s official admissions page.

Aspiring mechanical engineers in South Africa must focus on excelling in core subjects like Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and English to meet the varying requirements of universities. Each institution has specific APS scores and subject level expectations, influencing acceptance into diploma or degree programs. By understanding these prerequisites at universities like Wits, UCT, UJ, TUT, CUT, CPUT, VUT, and DUT, students can better prepare themselves for successful admission into their desired mechanical engineering programs. For more detailed information, always refer to the official university admissions pages.

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