What are the entry requirements for law?

You need matric with a degree pass and a strong English mark, plus the APS the university asks for. Most LLB programmes do not need Maths.

What subjects do I need to become a lawyer?

English matters most, because law is about reading and writing. You do not need pure Maths for most LLB programmes. A second language and History also help.

Can I be a lawyer with just an LLB?

The LLB is the degree you need, but it is not enough on its own. After it, you must do practical vocational training, pass the LPC exams, and be admitted by the court.

What APS do I need for law?

It changes from one university to the next, often around the low-30s, and higher at top law schools. Check each university, or work out your APS.

Can I study law without maths?

Yes, for most LLB programmes. Maths Literacy is usually fine. Focus on a strong English mark. Always check the university.

Law requirements: subjects, APS and how to qualify

What you need in matric

You must have

English
A degree (bachelor's) pass in matric

Also good to have

A second language
History
A high overall average

Ways to become a lawyer

The best way is first. If your marks are not enough for one way, try the next one down.

DegreeNQF 84 yearsBest way

LLB (law degree)

To get in: About 32 APS or more. English, A degree pass in matric. A strong English mark matters most. You do not need Maths for most LLB programmes. Entry is competitive at top law schools.

Most universities offer the LLB. You can do the four-year LLB, or first do a three-year BA or BCom Law and then a two-year LLB. You are admitted as an attorney, who works with clients, or an advocate, who argues cases in court.

After the LLB you do practical vocational training, pass the LPC exams, and are admitted by the court.

Higher certificateNQF 51 to 2 years

Paralegal

To get in: A matric certificate. Lower marks than the LLB.

Colleges and some universities offer paralegal qualifications. You work in legal support, helping lawyers, but you are not a lawyer yourself. You work as a paralegal in a law firm, company, or advice office.

Marks too low for the LLB? A paralegal qualification gets you into the legal field. You can study the LLB later.

If you don’t get in yet

Are your marks too low for the LLB, or not sure about the long road? You still have ways into the legal field.

Start with a paralegal qualification

A Higher Certificate or Diploma in Paralegal Studies gets you into legal work sooner, helping lawyers. It needs lower marks, and you can study the LLB later.

Do a BA or BCom Law first

If you just miss the LLB, a three-year BA or BCom Law can lead into the two-year LLB, and gives you a broader base.

Upgrade your matric

You can upgrade your matric: rewrite subjects to get better marks. The government runs a free Second Chance programme. Then you can apply again.

Get ready to apply →

How to sign up to work

You sign up with the Legal Practice Council (LPC).

You must be admitted by the High Court and enrolled with the Legal Practice Council (LPC) to work as a lawyer.
After your LLB, you do practical vocational training: articles (attorneys) or pupillage (advocates).
You pass the LPC's competency-based exams.
You give a police clearance and must be a 'fit and proper' person.
You pay a fee each year to stay on the roll.