Requirements to Study Nursing at Wits Compared to Other SA Universities

To meet the requirements to study nursing at NWU (North-West University), applicants need a minimum APS of 28. The admission criteria are uniquely flexible regarding subject choices. Applicants must achieve Level 4 (50–59%) in their language of tuition (English/Afrikaans) and Level 4 (50–59%) in at least ONE of the following subjects: Mathematics, Physical Sciences, or Life Sciences.

Detailed Comparison of Requirements to Study Nursing at NWU and Other Institutions

NWU stands out as offering one of the most flexible subject structures in South Africa. Unlike institutions that strictly mandate a “trinity” of subjects (Maths + Physics + Life Sciences), NWU allows for substitution.

Below is a breakdown to help you determine what subjects are needed to study nursing at NWU versus other major universities.

Comparison of Admission Criteria

Requirements to Study Nursing at Wits Compared to Other SA Universities (2) — Requirements to Study Nursing at Wits Compared to Other SA Universities Table

University	Min APS/Score	Key Subject Requirement	Physical Sciences Required?
NWU	28	ONE of: Maths, Phys Sci, OR Life Sci (Level 4)	Flexible (Can substitute)
UP	28	Core Maths (Level 4) + Life Sci (Level 4)	No
UKZN	30	Maths/Lit (Level 3) + Life Sci (Level 4)	No
UJ	30	Core Maths (Level 4) + Life Sci (Level 4)	Yes (Level 4)
UNIVEN	36	Core Maths (Level 4) + Life Sci (Level 4)	Yes (Level 4)
CPUT	30+	Maths/Lit (Level 4/5) + Life Sci (Level 4)	Yes (Level 4)
NMU	370 (AS)	Maths/Lit (50/65%) + Life Sci (Level 5)	Yes (50%)
SMU	18*	Core Maths (Level 4) + Life Sci (Level 5)	Yes (Level 4)

Note on NWU Selection: Participation in a 40-hour job shadowing programme is highly recommended to strengthen your application.

Key Differences in University Requirements

When analysing the requirements to study nursing at NWU, the “OR” rule makes it distinct from almost every other university on this list.

1. Subject Combination Flexibility (The NWU Advantage)

NWU is the only institution listed that allows for broad subject substitution.

The NWU Rule: You need Level 4 in Physical Sciences OR Mathematics OR Life Sciences.
Implication: If you have Life Sciences at Level 4, you meet the science requirement even if your Mathematics or Physical Sciences marks are lower (provided you still meet the overall APS of 28).
The Contrast:
- UJ, UNIVEN, and CPUT: Mandate that you pass ALL three (Maths, Physics, and Life Sciences) at specific levels.
- UP: Mandates BOTH Core Maths and Life Sciences.

2. Academic Point Score (APS)

NWU is among the more accessible universities regarding points.

NWU (APS 28): This places it on the lower end of the competitive spectrum, matching UP (28).
Comparison: It is lower than the standard 30 required by UJ, UKZN, UWC, and CPUT.
High Barrier: It is significantly more accessible than UNIVEN (36 APS).

3. Mathematics vs. Mathematical Literacy

Because of the substitution rule, NWU indirectly accepts Mathematical Literacy.

How it works: If you take Maths Lit but achieve Level 4 in Life Sciences or Physical Sciences, you qualify (as you only need one of the three target subjects).
Comparison: This is more flexible than UP, UJ, and SMU, which specifically reject Maths Lit regardless of your other science marks.

4. Unique Selection Recommendations

NWU looks for vocational commitment.

NWU: Recommends a 40-hour job shadowing programme. This non-academic criterion helps show you are serious about the profession.
Other Universities: Focus on different metrics, such as NBTs (Wits), Medical Reports (NMU), or Physical Assessments (UNIVEN).

5. Grade 10 Subjects Requirements for Nursing

If you are currently in Grade 9 and aiming for NWU, you have room to play to your strengths.

Based on the requirements to study nursing at NWU, the recommended grade 10 subjects requirements for nursing are:

English (Tuition language – Aim for Level 4).
Life Sciences (Highly recommended as your primary “Level 4” subject).
Mathematics OR Mathematical Literacy:
- Unlike UJ, you can take Maths Lit here, provided your Life Sciences or Physical Sciences marks are strong.
Physical Sciences: Optional. You can substitute it with Life Sciences or Maths.

Summary

North-West University (NWU) offers one of the least restrictive pathways to a Bachelor of Nursing degree. With a moderate APS of 28 and a rule that requires strong performance in only one of the core science/maths subjects (Maths, Physics, or Life Sciences), it is an excellent option for students who may be very strong in Life Sciences but average in Mathematics or Physical Sciences. However, applicants should consider completing the job shadowing hours to boost their selection chances.