Getting into university is harder than ever – here’s how learners can boost their chances

Competition for places at South Africa’s top universities is intensifying, leaving many parents frustrated after their children were declined despite strong matric results.

Speaking on CapeTalk, Magdel Pretorius of Undergraduate Recruitment at Stellenbosch University outlined what learners should be doing as early as high school to give themselves the best possible shot.

Planning starts earlier than most parents think

While applications are assessed using grade 11 results, Pretorius said the real foundation is laid even earlier.

“We can say it starts as early as grade nine with the correct subject choices,” she said. “But in terms of career goals and proper planning, it definitely starts in grade 11.”

Choosing subjects that keep options open is crucial, especially for learners who are still undecided about their future careers.

“If you take mathematics, physical sciences and life sciences, you keep almost all your options open at Stellenbosch,” Pretorius explained. “If you drop physical sciences, you immediately cut out engineering and many science-based degrees.”

Marks matter – and not all subjects count equally

Pretorius stressed that meeting minimum requirements is only the first hurdle.

“For Stellenbosch, you need the minimum requirements to be eligible, but then all eligible candidates go through a selection process,” she said. “Selection requirements are roughly 10% above the minimum.”

For a general BCom degree, learners typically need:

• An average of at least 75%
• Between 65% and 70% in pure mathematics

“All our BCom degrees require pure mathematics,” she added.

BA degrees have slightly different requirements.

“You don’t need mathematics – mathematical literacy is accepted – but you still need an overall average of at least 70%,” Pretorius said, noting that these are minimums and competition can push thresholds higher.

For science, engineering and health sciences, requirements are steeper.

“You need mathematics and physical sciences, and for some health sciences programmes, life sciences as well,” she said.

Importantly, marks in key subjects are weighted more heavily during selection.

“For engineering, maths and physical sciences are doubled in the selection score,” Pretorius explained. “Not all marks are equal, subjects linked to your intended field carry more weight.”

Grade 11 results can make or break an application

At Stellenbosch, applications are assessed using final grade 11 results, with successful applicants receiving conditional offers.

“You apply with your grade 11 results and then need to maintain those marks in matric,” Pretorius said.

Learners whose grade 11 results fall short can still apply, but the odds are long.

“If you want to be considered later with matric results, you still need to apply,” she said. “But it depends on space becoming available, and you may only get an answer very late.”

Waiting to apply after matric usually means taking a gap year.

“Most universities don’t take late applications,” Pretorius warned.

No shortcuts – academics still rule

Despite frequent questions from parents, Pretorius was clear: motivation letters and extracurriculars don’t currently sway selection decisions.

“At the moment, selection is based on academics,” she said.

There are limited exceptions, such as:

• Auditions or portfolios for arts programmes
• National Benchmark Tests contributing to law faculty selections

But for most degrees, studying hard remains the only reliable strategy.

Gap years and second-chance options

Pretorius said attitudes toward gap years have shifted.

“In 2026, there is definitely value in taking an extra year to figure out what you want,” she said. “Starting at 19 instead of 18 often means starting with a clearer plan.”

She highlighted two structured alternatives:

• The Young Minds Programme at the Stellenbosch Business School is a 10-month gap-year course focused on self-discovery and entrepreneurial skills
• The SciMathUS programme is a second-opportunity year for learners who narrowly missed science and engineering requirements

“These programmes are not about taking the easy route,” Pretorius said. “They’re about preparing properly for the field you actually want to pursue.”

Choose wisely – and early

Pretorius cautioned against choosing degrees purely because they seem easier to get into.

“Teaching and theology are callings,” she said. “If your heart isn’t in it, you’re going to struggle, no matter how low the entry requirements may seem.”

Her advice to parents and learners was simple: think early, choose subjects carefully, and understand that competition is only going to increase.

“University places are a privilege,” she said. “Preparation makes all the difference.”

For more information, listen to Pretorius using the audio player below: