Question 1

What grading system does South Africa use?

Accepted Answer

South Africa uses the NSC achievement levels. The NSC scale of achievement runs from level 7 (80–100%) down to level 1 (0–29%). A Bachelor's degree pass needs level 4 (50–59%) in four recognised 20-credit subjects; a Diploma needs level 3 (40–49%). APS rules are set by each university: Wits adds 2 points to English and Mathematics and counts Life Orientation out of 4, while UCT adds the six best subject percentages excluding Life Orientation.

Question 2

What local terms should I know for South Africa?

Accepted Answer

Common terms include APS, matric, achievement level, aggregate. The calculators use these labels so the results read the way your institution reports them.

Question 3

Which tools are available for South Africa?

Accepted Answer

A scale GPA/CGPA calculator, a degree-classification calculator, a conversion tool and a grading-scale reference page, each with a sourced table and last-verified date.

South Africa Grading System