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4.1. UNDERSTANDING THE PROGRAMME CHOICE LIST
Points Calculation Tables
Page 30 shows the system default points calculation in which points are calculated for the top six subjects, excluding Life Orientation. Institutions may use different variants of this, e.g. some may double the Maths and Science points for Engineering. Institutions may have further requirements for selection, therefore, meeting the minimum points does not necessarily guarantee that you will be offered a place. Please check the notes column in the Programme List in this Handbook or institutions' prospectus/website for details.
For a full list of the abbreviations used, refer to the acronyms and abbreviations on pages 272-275. Mature age applicants and those seeking admission on the basis of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) or foreign qualifications should consult the institution.
Colour Codes in Programme Name
Pink: Part-time study
Brown: A new programme awaiting approval from DHET/Senate at the time of this Handbook being published. Contact the institution to confirm if the programme will be offered.
NSC/IEB/SACAI
Minimum entry requirements for applicants writing NSC are shaded pink. Matric (Grade 12) achievement to qualify for:
1. Degree Study
1.1 Must obtain at least 40% for Home Language
1.2 Must obtain at least 50% for FOUR other subjects, excluding Life
Orientation
1.3 Must obtain at least 30% for ONE other subject
1.4 Must obtain at least 30% in Language of Learning and Teaching
(LOLT) of the Higher Education Institution where you intend studying
1.5 Must pass at least six out of seven subjects
Where you see NSC Deg in the Programme Choice List, this means that you must meet these requirements. If the institution has additional requirements, these will be indicated:
This means that in addition to an NSC pass meeting the minimum standard required for entry into degree study, you must have passes in Mathematics and Physical Science at Level 6 and English Home Language, or First Additional Language and Life Orientation at Level 4. Two of the three other subjects must be passed on Level 4.
2. Diploma Study
2.1 Must obtain at least 40% for Home Language
2.2 Must obtain at least 40% for THREE other subjects, excluding Life Orientation
2.3 Must obtain at least 30% for TWO other subjects
2.4 Must obtain at least 30% in the Language of Learning and Teaching (LOLT) of the Higher Education Institution where you intend studying
2.5 Must pass at least six out of seven subjects
3. Higher Certificate Study
3.1 Must obtain at least 40% in Home Language
3.2 Must obtain at least 40% in TWO other subjects 3.3 Must obtain at least 30% in FOUR other subjects 3.4 Must pass at least six out of seven subjects
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Example: NSC Deg with Maths and Phys Sci 6 and Engl and LO 4 and two subjects 4
CAO HANDBOOK ENTRY 2025