University of Cape Town (UCT) Admission Requirements

Admission to the University of Cape Town (UCT) depends on what programme you want to study. Below is a breakdown of the general admission requirements for various types of undergraduate study:

🔹 1. Undergraduate Certificate Programmes

To apply for an undergraduate certificate programme:

You must contact the UCT Admissions Office or the specific faculty offering the course to confirm eligibility and specific entry requirements.

Check Also Student Loans in South Africa: What You Need to Know

🔹 2. Undergraduate Diploma Programmes

Minimum admission requirements:

A National Senior Certificate (NSC) certified by Umalusi.
You must achieve at least a Level 3 (40–49%) in four recognised 20-credit NSC subjects.

Check Also University Application Requirements in South Africa: A Complete Guide

🔹 3. Bachelor’s Degree Programmes

For applicants with a South African NSC:

You must pass at least 4 subjects at Level 4 (50–59%) or higher.
These subjects must be from the official designated subject list, which includes:
- Accounting
- Business Studies
- Economics
- Geography
- History
- Languages
- Life Sciences
- Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy
- Physical Sciences
- Visual Arts
- Engineering Graphics and Design
- Music, and others.

Check Even More Scholarships for African Students 2025

For applicants with a South African Senior Certificate:

You must have a matriculation endorsement to qualify for degree studies.

For applicants with international qualifications:

You must qualify for a matriculation exemption certificate.
Visit the Matriculation Board website for details on how to apply.

🔹 4. English Language Proficiency

All applicants must show they are proficient in English.

South African Senior Certificate holders:

Must have a minimum of 40% in English (Higher Grade) as either a First or Second Language.

NSC holders:

Must have at least Level 2 (30–40%) in English Home Language or First Additional Language.

International applicants:

Must meet UCT’s language requirements.
May need to submit results from an English proficiency test like IELTS or TOEFL.
More information is available through the UCT English Language Centre.

Check more UCT Undergraduate Online Application 2026

🔹 5. How the Admissions Points Score (APS) is Calculated

UCT uses your NSC exam results (both preliminary and final) to calculate your APS.

Each percentage mark equals your score for that subject.
UCT adds up the scores for six subjects, which must include:
- English
- Any required subjects for the programme (e.g., Mathematics, Physical Sciences)
- Your next best three subjects, excluding Life Orientation
Subjects scored below 40% do not count towards your APS.