If you are currently in Matric and planning your future, you might be confused about which school results to use for your application. The short answer is: Your Final Grade 11 Report (December Results).
Most South African universities use these specific results as the primary basis for granting provisional or conditional admission. Since you haven’t written your final Matric exams when applications open, institutions rely on your Grade 11 performance to predict your potential.
This guide breaks down exactly which report is required for submission and how different universities use it to decide your future.
Final Grade 11 Results (December)
When submitting an application while you are still in Grade 12, you are generally required to upload your Final Grade 11 Report. This is the most frequently cited requirement across all major institutions.
Why is this report so important?
- Provisional Acceptance: It allows universities to make you an offer before you finish school.
- APS Calculation: It is used to calculate your provisional Admission Point Score (APS).
- Bursaries: It is often used for initial funding assessments, such as NRF Bursary requirements.
Tip: Always ensure your report is stamped by the school. Most universities, like UNIVEN and UP, strictly require a scanned copy with the official school stamp.
University-Specific Report Requirements
Different institutions have slightly different rules regarding how they handle these reports. Below is a breakdown based on 2026 admissions policies:
1. Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
NMU requires a certified copy of your latest school results. This is specifically your Grade 11 Final Report. If you are applying later in the year, they may accept Grade 12 June/September results, but the Grade 11 report is the standard for early applications.
- Ready to apply here? Check out the NMU Online Application 2026 guide.
2. University of Pretoria (UP)
UP is strict about documentation. You must upload a scanned (PDF) copy of your final Grade 11 examination report. This report must clearly indicate your promotion mark.
- Note: For competitive courses in the Faculty of Health Sciences (like Nursing or MBChB), selection is based almost entirely on this report.
3. Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU)
For those looking to enter medical fields, SMU performs pre-selections between September and October. They require a certified copy of your Final Grade 11 results.
4. University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
UKZN may make early or conditional offers based on “excellent” Grade 11 results. You must use these results to calculate your minimum APS.
5. North-West University (NWU)
NWU explicitly states that conditional acceptance is offered using Grade 11 results. Prospective students are evaluated entirely on their performance in that final December report.
- Did you know NWU offers pathway programmes? Read about Bridging Courses at NWU.
What if My Grade 11 Marks Were Bad?
This is a common concern. If your Grade 11 results were poor, you might worry that you won’t get provisional acceptance.
While Grade 11 marks are critical for early conditional offers, they are not the end of the road.
- Improve in Matric: Many universities will reconsider your application once you submit your Grade 12 June or September results.
- Bridging Options: If your marks don’t meet the degree requirements, you might qualify for a bridging course or an extended programme.
- Strategy: Read our guide on what to do if you had Bad Grade 11 Marks but expect Good Grade 12 Marks.
Summary: The Application Process
In essence, for South African undergraduate applications, the Final Grade 11 Report is the definitive academic document used to gauge your competitiveness.
- Get it certified: Ensure you have digital, certified copies (PDF format is best).
- Check the details: Ensure your Life Orientation and choice subjects are clearly listed.
- Apply Early: Many universities open for 2026 applications require these documents as soon as the cycle begins.
Do you need help calculating your APS using your Grade 11 results to see where you qualify?