What Can I Study With 17 Points?

What Can I Study With 17 Points?

If you’ve scored 17 points in your matric exams, you might be wondering what study options are still available to you. While many university programs require higher Admission Point Scores (APS), achieving 17 points is still an important milestone that opens up a variety of opportunities. Don’t be discouraged by a lower APS; there are many paths to pursue further education and build a successful career with this score. An APS of 17 qualifies you to apply for Higher Certificate programs. Higher Certificates are designed as a starting point in higher education, offering practical skills and knowledge that can prepare you for entry-level jobs or additional studies. Whether your interests lie in fields such as business, education, tourism, or healthcare, many colleges and institutions in South Africa offer programs that welcome students with this APS.

One of the best things about a Higher Certificate is that it serves as a stepping stone. After completing the certificate, you have the option to continue studying towards diplomas or even degrees to further your qualifications. This flexibility means that 17 points provide a strong foundation for a range of academic and career opportunities. In South Africa, numerous TVET colleges and universities accept students with 17 points. These institutions offer courses in various formats, including traditional classroom settings and online learning options.

This means that even if your preferred degree program requires a higher APS, you can start with a related course and work your way up through additional qualifications. This article will explore the different study options and programs available to those with 17 points, helping you find the best fit for your interests and career goals. From understanding entry requirements to discovering potential career paths, you’ll see that scoring 17 points still offers plenty of opportunities to succeed and grow in your education journey.

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What Does 17 Points Mean?

Your Admission Point Score (APS) is calculated based on your performance in your final Matric results and is used by colleges and universities to assess your eligibility for their programs. A score of 17 points places you in the range of qualifying for Higher Certificate courses. These are foundational academic programs designed to build practical skills and knowledge for entry into specific careers or to serve as a stepping stone to further studies.

APS Requirements For Matriculation Pass

A passing Matric grade with an APS of 17 grants you the ability to study for a Higher Certificate, which you can then apply for entry-level jobs or continue your education at a college. With this pass, you do not meet the minimum requirements for university education. The APS criteria to obtain a Higher Certificate Pass are as follows:

Higher Certificate Eligibility:

Achieving a passing Matric grade with an APS score of 17 allows you to study for a Higher Certificate. This qualification can help you apply for entry-level jobs or continue your studies at a college level.

University Entry:

An APS of 17 meets the requirements for a Higher Certificate but does not qualify you for direct university admission.

APS Breakdown for the National Senior Certificate:

Home Language: APS 3 (40% – 49%)
Two other subjects: APS 3 (40% – 49%)
Four additional subjects: APS 2 (30% – 39%)
Total APS: 17 points

APS Breakdown for the Senior Certificate (Amended):

Home Language: APS 3 (40% – 49%)
Two other subjects: APS 3 (40% – 49%)
Three additional subjects: APS 2 (30% – 39%)
Total APS: 16 points

Also Read: What Happens If You Fail 2 Subjects in Matric 2026

Fields Available with 17 Points

Here are some of the common areas where you can study with 17 points, depending on the institution:

Business Studies: Courses in office administration, marketing, customer service, and entrepreneurship are widely available. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions in companies and organizations.
Education and Teaching: You can enroll in Foundation Phase teaching programs or assistant teacher courses, which prepare you to work with young children in early education settings.
Tourism and Hospitality: This sector offers numerous opportunities with qualifications in travel and tourism management, hotel operations, and event management.
Health Sciences: Certain basic healthcare-related courses, such as community health work or healthcare assistance diplomas, may be accessible with a Higher Certificate and 17 points.
Information Technology: Some foundational IT courses are available, focusing on computer literacy, office software, and basic programming skills.

Courses You Can Offer with 17 Points

Consider applying for the following programs at a College with a minimum APS score of 17:

ICB Courses

The ICB Courses you can study are:

ICB Business Management
ICB Financial Accounting
ICB Office Administration

NATED Courses

The NATED Courses that you can study are:

NATED Educare
NATED Business Management
NATED Human Resources Management
NATED Financial Management
NATED Management Assistant
NATED Legal Assistant
NATED Marketing Management

How to Improve Your Chances of Getting a Good APS

If you want to study degrees that require higher APS scores but only have 17 points, there are several strategies you can consider:

Start with a Higher Certificate: After completing this, you may be able to upgrade to diploma or degree programs.
Consider Bridging Courses: Some institutions offer bridging or access programs that help improve your skills and qualifications to meet degree requirements.
Improve Your Matric Results: If possible, you can rewrite Matric subjects or do a Matric upgrade to increase your APS.
Explore Private Colleges: Many private institutions have different entry requirements and offer flexible study options.
Online Learning: Some programs allow you to study part-time or online, which can be more accessible and affordable.

Scoring 17 points in Matric is a valuable accomplishment that should not be underestimated. While it might not grant direct access to university degree programs, it provides a clear pathway into many Higher Certificate courses and TVET programs across South Africa. These courses not only prepare you for the workforce but also offer opportunities to continue improving your qualifications in the future. You can share this website with your colleagues who wish to apply with 17 points. I hope you find this post easy to understand and efficient. Please share your questions and suggestions in the space provided below. Click here for more inquiries.

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