Course Match · APS 17

APS 17 | Higher Certificates, TVET and Upgrading

APS 17 is below most degree and diploma minimums, but you still have real options: a Higher Certificate at UNISA or a university, an NC(V) or diploma at a TVET college, or upgrading your matric to open more doors.

NB
Higher Education Content
Published Verified against university prospectuses 2027

What can I study with an APS score of 17?

APS 17 is below most degree and diploma minimums, but you still have real options: a Higher Certificate at UNISA or a university, an NC(V) or diploma at a TVET college, or upgrading your matric to open more doors.

Courses typically available at APS 17

Course / DegreeTypical universities
Higher Certificate (UNISA and others)UNISA, TUT, DUT
NC(V) / National Diploma (TVET)Public TVET colleges
Learnerships and occupational certificatesSETA learnerships

APS alone is not enough. Subject requirements (Maths, English, Physical Sciences) still gate specific programmes. Always verify on each university's prospectus.

Universities to consider with APS 17

Next steps

  1. A Higher Certificate (NQF 5) can bridge you into a diploma or degree later.
  2. Look at a TVET college NC(V) for a practical, funded route.
  3. Upgrading a subject or two can lift your APS. Even a few points opens diplomas.

Other APS brackets

Calculate your exact APS

The APS number differs by university. Use NavyBlue's calculator to get your exact score at each of the 26 SA universities.

Open the APS Calculator