Planning to go to university or college after high school? This easy guide will help you understand how to apply, what documents you need, and how to increase your chances of being accepted, even if you're not sure what you want to study yet.
📌 Why Grade 11 Matters More Than You Think
Your Grade 11 marks are super important. Most universities will use these results when you first apply, even if the final decision is based on your Matric results later.
✅ Grade 11 results are used for early applications
✅ Bursary funders also look at Grade 11
✅ It helps you build good study habits before Matric
🏛️ How to Choose the Right Institution
There are different types of tertiary institutions:
Traditional universities – like UCT, Wits, UP (theory-focused degrees)
Universities of Technology – like TUT, VUT (vocational diplomas and degrees)
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Jun 27, 2025
May 15, 2026
6 min read
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Planning to go to university or college after high school? This easy guide will help you understand how to apply, what documents you need, and how to increase your chances of being accepted, even if you're not sure what you want to study yet.
📌 Why Grade 11 Matters More Than You Think
Your Grade 11 marks are super important. Most universities will use these results when you first apply, even if the final decision is based on your Matric results later.
✅ Grade 11 results are used for early applications
✅ Bursary funders also look at Grade 11
✅ It helps you build good study habits before Matric
🏛️ How to Choose the Right Institution
There are different types of tertiary institutions:
Traditional universities – like UCT, Wits, UP (theory-focused degrees)
Universities of Technology – like TUT, VUT (vocational diplomas and degrees)
Comprehensive universities – like UJ (mix of both)
TVET Colleges – more hands-on courses and training
Private colleges – make sure they’re registered with DHET
📌 Tip: Always ask for the registration number if it's a private institution.
✅ Steps to Pick the Best University/College for You
Make a list of institutions offering your dream course
Check entry requirements and the APS score needed
Find out about post-grad options, bursaries, and res (accommodation)
Attend open days
Always have a Plan B and Plan C just in case
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📝 How to Apply to Tertiary Institutions
Here’s what most universities or colleges require:
Apply online or get a manual form if needed
Have a working email address
Upload certified copies of these:
Grade 11/12 results
Your ID
Parent’s/guardian’s ID
Proof of residence
Payslip (if applying for funding)
Pay the application fee (each school has its own amount)
Get confirmation after submitting
Wait for your acceptance or rejection letter
🕐 Deadlines are different for each school — some close in June or September, so apply early!
📊 Understanding APS Scores and the Bachelor Pass
Your APS (Admission Point Score) is based on your Matric results.
Percent | APS Points |
80–100% | 7 points |
70–79% | 6 points |
60–69% | 5 points |
50–59% | 4 points |
40–49% | 3 points |
30–39% | 2 points |
0–29% | 1 point |
🧠 Most universities require at least a Bachelor Pass, which means:
6 subjects passed
50%+ in 4 subjects
40%+ in Home Language
30%+ in 2 subjects
Life Orientation only counts if above 60% (some universities)
✏️ What’s the NBT, and Do You Need It?
The NBT (National Benchmark Test) measures if you’re ready for university. Not all universities ask for it, but some courses require it.
You might write:
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AQL (Academic & Quantitative Literacy) – for all courses
MAT (Mathematics) – if your course involves Maths
💸 Cost: R175 (AQL only), R350 (AQL + MAT)
📅 Register early: https://www.nbt.ac.za
💸 How to Get Funding (NSFAS & More)
Studying is expensive — but there’s help available:
1. NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme)
✔️ Funds government universities and TVET colleges
✔️ Covers fees, books, food, and accommodation
✔️ You must be a South African citizen
✔️ Household income must be below R350,000/year
Apply here: www.nsfas.org.za
2. Private Bursaries & Funders
🔍 Search:
TRENDING NOW
POPULAR TODAY
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📌 Tips for bursary success:
Apply early
Submit all required documents
Don’t apply for bursaries you're not eligible for
Be ready for interviews
🏡 Student Accommodation
When applying to university, tick the option for residence (res) if you want to live on campus.
🏠 You can also apply to private res, but check if they’re accredited.
💡 Final Tips
Pick 3 institutions and 3 courses to increase your chances
Get all your documents ready
Track your application and get confirmation
Prepare for the NBT early if required
Apply for funding before the deadline
✅ Free Tools to Help You
Career assessment: www.gostudy.net
APS calculator: Ask your school or check each university’s site
NBT test calendar: https://nbt.ac.za
Closing Thoughts
Applying to university is a big step — but with the right info, it's totally doable. Start early, ask questions, and stay organized. Whether you’re aiming for UCT, Wits, a TVET college, or a private institution, your future is in reach.
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