28 APS Score Courses: What You Can Study in South Africa

If your APS score is 22, don’t worry there are still many study opportunities waiting for you. A 22 APS score may not meet the requirements for all bachelor’s degrees, but it qualifies you for several diploma, higher certificate, and TVET courses in South Africa.

This guide explains what a 22 APS score means, which courses and institutions accept it, and how you can progress academically toward your dream qualification. to calculate your APS, use this APS score calculator.

What a 22 APS Score Means for Students

A 22 APS score is considered moderate, meaning you meet the minimum for many entry-level tertiary programs. Here’s what it means for you in practice:

You may not yet qualify for most degree programs, but you can enter higher certificate or diploma courses.
Some universities and private institutions offer access or foundation programs for students with APS between 20–23.
With good results, you can later upgrade from a certificate to a diploma or even a bachelor’s degree.
It shows you have a solid academic foundation the perfect starting point to grow.

Your APS does not define your potential it simply guides your next step forward.

Courses You Can Study with 22 APS Score

With a 22 APS score, you can pursue many practical qualifications that help you gain real-world skills and experience.

Higher Certificate Courses

These are 1-year entry-level programs ideal for starting your tertiary journey:

Higher Certificate in Business Management
Higher Certificate in Marketing
Higher Certificate in Office Administration
Higher Certificate in Tourism or Hospitality
Higher Certificate in Information Technology

Once completed, these can lead to a diploma or degree in the same field.

Diploma & NATED Courses

Diplomas usually require an APS between 18–24 and provide job-ready skills:

Diploma in Marketing or Retail Management
Diploma in Accounting / Financial Management
Diploma in Public Relations
Diploma in Human Resource Management
N4–N6 Business Management
N4–N6 Financial or Office Administration

These can be completed at TVET colleges or universities of technology.

TVET College Courses

TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) colleges are excellent for students with a 22 APS score.
Examples include:

Electrical or Civil Engineering Studies
Mechanical Engineering
Computer Systems and Networking
Hospitality and Tourism
Safety in Society (Policing)
Early Childhood Development

TVET qualifications can lead directly into the workplace or to university study later.

Institutions That Accept 22 APS Score in South Africa

Several public, private, and technical institutions accept students with a 22 APS score for diploma, certificate, or foundation programs.

Public Universities & Universities of Technology

University of South Africa (UNISA) – Higher Certificates in Business, Law, and IT.
Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) – Diplomas in Accounting, Marketing, and Design (APS 22+).
Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) – Diplomas in Hospitality, IT, and Engineering.
Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) – Selected diploma programs.

TVET Colleges

False Bay TVET College
Coastal KZN TVET College
Ekurhuleni East TVET College
Central Johannesburg TVET College
West Coast TVET College

These colleges offer NATED, NC(V), and artisan programs for a variety of industries.

Private Institutions

Private colleges are flexible with entry requirements and ideal for 22 APS students:

Boston City Campus
Richfield Graduate Institute of Technology
Damelin College
Oxbridge Academy
MSC Business College
Milpark Education

Conclusion

A 22 APS score is not the end of your academic journey it’s your first stepping stone. South Africa’s education system offers multiple routes to success, from higher certificate programs to TVET courses and bridging pathways.

Stay motivated, apply early, and take charge of your future. With commitment and the right program, your 22 APS score can open real opportunities for growth and achievement.