Many Grade 12 learners ask: Which universities accept Maths Literacy for Nursing in South Africa?
The short answer is that while most medical fields require pure Mathematics, Nursing is different. Several top South African universities explicitly accept Mathematical Literacy for their Bachelor of Nursing degrees, provided you meet specific high-achievement levels.
This guide provides the verified admission requirements for 2026, explaining which universities accept Maths Lit, exactly what marks you need, and how to plan your path wisely.
If you are unsure about your subject combination, you might also want to read: What Can I Study With Life Science and Maths Lit?
Quick Summary: Can I Study Nursing with Maths Lit?
Yes, you can study Nursing with Maths Literacy, but only at selected universities and private nursing colleges.
- Universities such as UKZN, UWC, CPUT, UNIZULU, and Nelson Mandela University accept learners with Maths Literacy, usually requiring between 60% and 70% in the subject.
- However, universities like UJ, Wits, UP, and Sefako Makgatho (SMU) do not accept Maths Literacy — they require pure Mathematics (usually Level 4) for the Bachelor of Nursing course.
Understanding Maths Literacy and Nursing Entry Requirements
Mathematical Literacy is accepted for certain Diploma and Bachelor of Nursing programmes because Nursing focuses more on biological and health sciences than on physics-based calculations.
However, because the competition is so high, the APS score and subject performance levels are strict. Most universities accepting Maths Literacy expect:
- Life Sciences: at least Level 4 (50%) to Level 5 (60%)
- Mathematical Literacy: High performance (Level 5 or 6)
- English: at least Level 4 (50%)
Universities That Accept Maths Literacy for Nursing in South Africa
The following universities currently accept Mathematical Literacy for their Bachelor of Nursing qualifications. Below are the specific 2026 requirements:
1. Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
NMU is an excellent option because it offers two specific entry routes for students with Mathematical Literacy.
- Bachelor of Nursing (Mainstream): You need an Applicant Score (AS) of 385. You must achieve 65% (Level 6) in Maths Literacy.
- Bachelor of Nursing (Extended Curriculum): If your marks are slightly lower, you can apply for the 5-year extended programme. This requires an AS of 345 and a minimum of 55% (Level 5) in Maths Literacy.
- Note: You also need Life Sciences at 60% (Mainstream) or 50% (Extended).
To ensure your application is successful, check out our guide on the NMU Online Application 2026 – How to get Space.
2. University of the Western Cape (UWC)
The School of Nursing at UWC accepts applicants with Mathematical Literacy but the requirement is high.
- Requirement: You need Maths Literacy Code 6 (70–79%).
- APS: You must meet the minimum weighted UWC points (usually 30+), alongside Life Sciences at Level 4 (50–59%).
3. Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
CPUT’s Department of Nursing Sciences offers both a mainstream and an extended option for Maths Lit students.
- Mainstream Degree: Requires an APS of 30+. You need Maths Literacy Level 5 (60–69%).
- Extended Curriculum (ECP): Requires an APS of 27–29. You need Maths Literacy Level 4 (50–59%).
- Subjects: English, Life Sciences, and Physical Sciences are all required at Level 4.
4. University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
UKZN accepts Maths Lit for the Bachelor of Nursing (KN-H-BN1).
- Requirement: An APS of 30 (excluding Life Orientation).
- Maths Lit Score: You need Level 3 or higher.
- Subjects: English and Life Sciences must be at Level 4.
5. Stellenbosch University (SU)
Stellenbosch is highly competitive but does accept Maths Lit for the Bachelor of Nursing.
- Requirement: You must have an aggregate of at least 60% (excluding LO).
- Maths Lit Score: A minimum of 70% is required.
- Subjects: Life Sciences at 50% is compulsory.
6. University of Zululand (UNIZULU)
UNIZULU offers the B Nursing Science degree.
- Requirement: Minimum APS of 30 points.
- Maths Lit Score: Level 4 is required.
- Subjects: English and Life Sciences at Level 4.
Universities That Do Not Accept Maths Literacy
If you plan to apply at the following universities, Maths Literacy will not be accepted for Nursing courses. These institutions strictly require Core Mathematics (usually Level 4/50%):
- University of Johannesburg (UJ)
- University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
- University of Pretoria (UP)
- Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU)
- University of Limpopo (UL)
If you were hoping to study at UFS, you should also check the specific UFS Nursing Requirements to see if you qualify.
Reality Check: What If My Marks Aren’t High Enough?
Even though some universities accept Maths Literacy, space is extremely limited. For example, NMU and UWC receive thousands of applications for only a few hundred spots.
If your APS is low or you are rejected, consider these options:
- Look for Alternative High-Paying Careers: Nursing isn’t the only option. Read our article on Highest Paying Jobs with Maths Literacy and Life Sciences.
- Private Nursing Colleges: Institutions like Netcare Education, Life Healthcare College, and Mediclinic offer the Diploma in Nursing. They generally accept Maths Literacy at Level 3 or 4.
- Consider Other Medical Fields: Did you know you have other options? For example, check out: Can I Become a Paramedic Without Physical Science?
- Upgrade Your Results: If you are determined to get into a university that requires pure Maths, you might ask: Can You Change From Maths Lit to Pure Maths in Grade 12?
Note: Private nursing colleges are not funded by NSFAS, so you will need to pay for tuition yourself or secure a student loan.
Final Advice for Future Nurses
If you have Maths Literacy, do not panic — you still have a clear path into nursing. Your strategy should be:
- Apply Early: Programmes at NMU and CPUT fill up instantly.
- Check Requirements: Ensure you meet the specific Level 5 or 6 requirement for Maths Lit.
- Bridge the Gap: If your marks are low, you may need a bridging course. Read What is a Bridging Course? – 3 Important Things to understand how this can help you reach your goal.