How to Improve Your APS Score – 10 Proven Strategies

Your APS score is the key that unlocks university doors. Even a small improvement – just one or two points – can mean the difference between acceptance and rejection. Whether you are currently in Grade 11, early Grade 12, or looking to upgrade your matric results, these ten proven strategies will help you maximise your APS and qualify for better programmes.

1. Focus on Subjects Closest to the Next Level

The smartest strategy is to identify subjects where you are close to the next achievement level boundary. For example, if you have 48% in Geography (Level 3), pushing to 50% (Level 4) gains you one full APS point with just a 2% improvement. Review all your subjects and find the "low-hanging fruit" – subjects where a small percentage increase translates to a level jump.

2. Master Past Exam Papers

Past papers are the single most effective study resource available. They familiarise you with the exam format, question styles, and marking approach. Work through at least 5-10 past papers for each subject under exam conditions (timed, no notes). The Department of Basic Education publishes NSC past papers and memoranda for free on their website.

3. Prioritise Gateway Subjects

Mathematics, English, and Physical Science are "gateway subjects" required for most degree programmes. Improving these subjects not only boosts your APS but also opens doors to programmes that require specific minimum levels. If you are struggling with Maths, consider whether Mathematical Literacy might be a strategic alternative (though it does limit some programme options).

4. Get Extra Help Early

Do not wait until the week before exams to seek help. If you are struggling with a subject, take action immediately:

Ask your teacher for extra tutoring sessions
Form study groups with classmates who excel in that subject
Use free online resources (YouTube channels, Khan Academy, Siyavula)
Consider a professional tutor for your weakest subjects

5. Create a Study Schedule and Stick to It

Consistent daily study beats last-minute cramming every time. Create a realistic study schedule that allocates more time to weaker subjects while maintaining your strengths. Aim for at least 2-3 hours of focused study per day outside of school. Use the Pomodoro technique (25 minutes study, 5 minutes break) to maintain concentration.

6. Understand the Exam, Not Just the Content

Knowing the content is not enough – you need to know how exams test that content. Study the assessment taxonomy used in NSC exams: knowledge (recall), comprehension (understanding), application (using knowledge), and analysis/evaluation (higher-order thinking). Higher-order questions carry more marks, so practise these types of questions specifically.

7. Eliminate Careless Mistakes

Many students lose 5-10% per paper through careless mistakes. Common errors include misreading questions, calculation errors, forgetting units, and poor time management. After completing each past paper, analyse your mistakes carefully. Are they content gaps or careless errors? For careless errors, develop a checking routine.

8. Maximise Life Orientation

Life Orientation is often underestimated, but it contributes to your APS. Since LO is generally considered easier than other subjects, aim for Level 6 or 7. The marks from LO assignments, physical education, and the final exam all count. Treat LO with the same seriousness as your other subjects.

9. Take Care of Your Health

Academic performance is directly linked to physical and mental health. Ensure you get 7-8 hours of sleep per night (your brain consolidates learning during sleep), eat nutritious meals (especially breakfast before exams), exercise regularly to reduce stress and improve concentration, and take breaks to avoid burnout.

10. If All Else Fails – Upgrade Your Results

If you have already completed matric and your APS is not sufficient, you can upgrade your results by rewriting specific subjects through the Department of Basic Education's supplementary or second-chance matric exams. Private colleges also offer matric rewrite programmes. Even improving one subject by one level can make a difference.

How Many Points Do You Need?

Use our free APS calculator to see your current score, then check the requirements for your target programmes: UKZN, DUT, MUT, or UNIZULU. The gap between your current APS and the minimum requirement tells you exactly how many points you need to gain.

Every Point Counts

Remember: improving from Level 4 to Level 5 in just one subject adds one point to your APS. Across six subjects, even modest improvements can add up to a significant boost. Start implementing these strategies today, and give yourself the best possible chance of getting into your dream programme. When you are ready, apply through CAO and begin your university journey.

How to Improve Your APS Score – 10 Proven Strategies