UCT admissions FAQ (APS, FPS and NBT)

UCT commonly uses two layers: APS to check basic readiness, and a faculty-specific FPS to rank applicants for competitive programmes.

Because FPS can differ by faculty (and sometimes includes NBTs), two learners with the same APS can have different competitiveness.

Use the calculator to see both APS and FPS where available: UCT calculator.

UCT FPS is the score used to rank applicants in certain faculties. It is not always the same as APS.

In some cases, FPS is essentially APS. In other cases, UCT weights certain subjects or uses NBT results as part of the ranking.

If you are applying to UCT, read: NBT guide.

Yes. UCT does use APS, but APS alone often does not tell the full story for competitive programmes.

The practical way to think about it: APS helps you clear the first gate, and FPS (plus NBTs where required) influences ranking.

For some programmes, UCT expects NBT results and may use them inside the faculty ranking score. That can make a meaningful difference when programmes are oversubscribed.

If a programme page in Examly lists an NBT requirement, treat it as a must-do step and plan early.

See: NBT requirements guide.

You can often apply while waiting, but a final decision may require NBTs if your programme lists them.

Open your programme page, then check the NBT section (if present). If it is listed, plan to write the tests as soon as possible.

It depends on the programme. Some degrees require Mathematics, and some may accept Maths Literacy.

Do not assume Maths Literacy is accepted just because your APS/FPS looks high. Always check subject minimums on the specific course page.

Browse programmes here: UCT requirements and courses.

Compulsory subjects change by degree, but English is almost always important, and Mathematics is commonly required for Science and many Commerce pathways.

Some programmes also require Physical Sciences or specific achievement levels. Examly lists these on course pages.

Sometimes. UCT may accept Maths Literacy for certain programmes, but many competitive degrees require Mathematics.

If your target programme requires Mathematics, Maths Literacy cannot substitute it. Consider alternative programmes that match your subject set.

There is no single Maths minimum for UCT. Different programmes set different thresholds.

If your maths mark is the weak link, practise consistently with past papers and re-check eligibility:

• Grade 12 Mathematics past papers
• Grade 12 Maths Literacy past papers

On some UCT programme pages you will see bands such as guaranteed, probable and possible. These are benchmarks that describe how competitive your score is.

Even “guaranteed” is not a legal promise. Programmes can still have conditions and capacity constraints.

Probable admission means you are in a strong range, but selection still depends on how competitive the applicant pool is that year.

If you are probable, keep improving your key subjects and submit required documents early.

Possible admission means you are close, but the outcome is uncertain. These ranges can depend on capacity and sometimes applicant categories.

If you are possible, focus on improving 1–2 high-impact subjects and consider backup choices.

Yes. If you are close, it can still be worth applying, as long as you plan realistically.

A good strategy is to apply to a mix of programmes: one stretch target, one realistic option, and one backup.

Yes. Many applicants apply using Grade 11 results. Final offers depend on final matric results and any required tests.

Use Examly as a projection tool, then update your marks as you improve.

Sometimes. Universities often allow changes within certain timelines, but policies differ.

Even if you plan to change later, it helps to apply for realistic options now and keep your subject marks improving.

Often yes, but you may be limited to a number of choices.

Use the programme list to compare options across faculties, then apply with a sensible mix.