The school subjects that matter for nursing are Life Sciences, a mathematics subject and the language of teaching. Life Sciences appears across almost every nursing route, while the mathematics you took determines which routes are open to you.
The single most consequential subject decision is Mathematics versus Mathematical Literacy, and it is made in Grade 9. Most university nursing degrees require Mathematics and do not accept Mathematical Literacy, while many college diplomas and certificates do accept it.
Entry Requirements at a Glance
Nursing programmes typically specify the following subjects.
- Life Sciences, required by almost all nursing programmes
- Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy, with the accepted option depending on the route
- The language of teaching and learning, usually English, at a specified level
- Physical Sciences, required by some university degree programmes
Academic and Minimum Admission Requirements
University Bachelor of Nursing programmes commonly require Mathematics, Life Sciences and in several cases Physical Sciences, each at a specified achievement level, alongside a bachelor pass.
Nursing college diplomas and certificates typically specify Life Sciences and a language, and are considerably more likely to accept Mathematical Literacy, often at a higher level than they would require of Mathematics.
Because requirements differ by institution rather than being set nationally, the same subject combination can qualify you at one institution and not at another. Check each one.
Subjects, APS and Qualification Requirements
Life Sciences underpins the anatomy, physiology and pathology content that runs through every nursing qualification, which is why it appears almost universally.
Physical Sciences appears on degree programmes because of the pharmacology and chemistry components. It is required at some institutions and merely recommended at others.
If you did not take Life Sciences, your options narrow considerably. Ask institutions whether a bridging programme or a supplementary subject is possible, and consider auxiliary nursing routes with lighter subject requirements as a starting point.
Documents and Application Requirements
When applying you will need to evidence your subjects and levels through the following.
- Your National Senior Certificate or latest statement of results, showing subjects and achievement levels
- A certified copy of your identity document
- A SAQA evaluation certificate, if you studied outside South Africa
- Documentation of any supplementary or rewritten subjects
Selection, Intake and Eligibility Considerations
Subject shortfalls are the most common reason nursing applications fail, more so than overall marks. An applicant with strong results but the wrong mathematics subject is excluded from degree routes regardless of the total.
If you are still at school and considering nursing, taking Mathematics rather than Mathematical Literacy keeps every route open. It is far easier to decide this in Grade 9 than to remedy it afterwards.
If you have already matriculated with the wrong combination, rewriting a subject or entering through a college route and articulating upward are both realistic. Ask institutions which they would prefer to see.
Frequently Asked Questions
What subjects do I need for nursing?
Life Sciences, a mathematics subject and the language of teaching are the core. Some degree programmes also require Physical Sciences.
Can I do nursing with Mathematical Literacy?
Many college diploma and certificate routes accept it. Most university degree programmes do not.
Do I need Physical Sciences?
Some university degree programmes require it. Most college routes do not.
What if I did not take Life Sciences?
Your options narrow. Ask institutions about bridging programmes, and consider auxiliary nursing routes with lighter subject requirements.
Confirm programme accreditation with the South African Nursing Council before enrolling anywhere, since only an accredited programme leads to registration and therefore to practice. Confirm entry requirements and closing dates with each institution for your intake year. See nursing requirements, admission requirements and browse all education requirements.