Embarking on your higher education journey is an exciting time, and Walter Sisulu University (WSU) welcomes you to explore the possibilities! Understanding the Walter Sisulu University admission requirements and how Admission Point Scores (APS) are calculated is a crucial first step. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to successfully apply to WSU.
University life is an incredible adventure that offers endless opportunities for learning, networking, and self-discovery. Our distinguished lecturers are leaders in their fields, dedicated to sharing their expertise and inspiring a passion for learning. They will encourage you to think critically, question assumptions, and explore innovative ideas, helping you develop the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in an ever-changing world. In addition, our campus is a bustling hub of extracurricular activities, societies, and organizations, ensuring a well-rounded university life.
General Admission Requirements at WSU
To be considered for admission at Walter Sisulu University, students must meet both the minimum admission requirements set out by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), as well as the university's own qualification-specific requirements. These are detailed below for different qualification types.
Qualification-Specific Admission Criteria
Higher Certificate
The minimum admission requirement is a National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a minimum of 30% in the language of learning and teaching of the higher education institution, as certified by Umalusi. Institutional and programme needs may require additional combinations or recognised NSC subjects and levels of achievement.
Diploma
The minimum admission requirement is an NSC with a minimum of 30% in the language of learning and teaching. Additionally, an achievement rating of 3 (40-49%) or better for 4 recognised 20-credit subjects, excluding life orientation, as certified by Umalusi, is required. Institutional and programme needs may require additional combinations or recognised NSC subjects and levels of achievement.
Bachelor's Degree
The minimum admission requirement is an NSC with a minimum of 30% in the language of learning and teaching. Furthermore, an achievement rating of 4 (50-59%) or better for 4 recognised 20-credit subjects, excluding life orientation, as certified by Umalusi, must be obtained. Institutional and programme needs may require additional combinations or recognised NSC subjects and levels of achievement.
International Students and Mature Age Entry
Applications from students with international school-leaving results are considered in terms of the 'Higher Education South Africa (HESA) guideline document, "A guide to application for exemption certificates"'. Where required, a submission of international qualifications to SAQA for benchmarking in terms of HEQC is necessary. These students will be assisted by WSU's international office.
Admission in terms of Mature Age Endorsement will be in terms of Rule 1.13 in the General Prospectus. Students applying for Diploma programmes must have a National Senior Certificate (NSC) with at least a diploma endorsement. Students applying for Degree programmes must have an NSC with a Bachelor's endorsement. Students with the old Senior Certificate or the NC(V) should refer to the specific entry requirements for guidance.
Understanding Walter Sisulu University's APS
The Admission Point Score (APS) is a crucial metric used by Walter Sisulu University to evaluate a student's National Senior Certificate (NSC) or Senior Certificate (Old Matric) examination performance. WSU uses APS, in addition to subject-specific requirements, to determine if a student is eligible for admission to its programmes.
The APS is calculated by adding together the point scores for a student's best six subjects. For the Faculty of Education, seven subjects are considered, including Life Orientation. The APS is determined on the WSU classification table, converting your percentage marks into point scores.
WSU APS Conversion Tables and Calculation
WSU employs distinct APS conversion tables for the National Senior Certificate (NSC) and the Old Matric Senior Certificate. These tables assign point values based on the percentage achieved in each subject, with higher percentages equating to higher APS points.
WSU APS Conversion Tables:
National Senior Certificate (NSC)
- Level 7 (90-100%): 8 points
- Level 6 (80-89%): 7 points
- Level 5 (70-79%): 6 points
- Level 4 (60-69%): 5 points
- Level 3 (50-59%): 4 points
- Level 2 (40-49%): 3 points
- Level 1 (30-39%): 2 points
- Level 0-1 (0-30%): 1 point
WSU's APS conversion system allocates point values for a maximum of 6 subjects or 7 subjects (when including Life Orientation). The calculation considers three categories: Category 1 (maximum of two languages – Home Language and First Additional Language), Category 2 (the 4 subjects in which the student scored the highest marks, excluding Life Orientation and Category 1 subjects; these must include subjects specifically required for the qualification), and Category 3 (Life Orientation, used only if the qualification requires it for APS computation).
How to Apply to WSU
Walter Sisulu University applications are exclusively managed through their official online portal. Ensure you have all the necessary documentation, including your NSC results, readily available before commencing the application process.
The official online application platform can be accessed here: https://applications.wsu.ac.za. Please take your time to accurately fill in all required fields.
Navigating university admissions can seem daunting, but understanding WSU's specific admission requirements and the APS system is key. By meeting the criteria for your chosen qualification and accurately calculating your APS, you can significantly strengthen your application.
Remember, university is not just about the destination but also the journey. Embrace the challenges, celebrate your successes, and don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Embrace failure as a stepping stone to growth, and don't hesitate to seek support from the university's resources, including academic advisors, counsellors, and tutors. Sincerely, Dr. Thandi Mgwebi, Vice-Chancellor & Principal.
