BCom requirements depend on the stream you choose. You need an NSC that admits you to bachelor’s study, then the Mathematics level and Admission Point Score (APS) of the stream. For the 2027 intake, the University of Pretoria (UP) runs from Mathematics level 4 and APS 30 for business-type streams up to Mathematics level 6 and APS 34 for Accounting Sciences and Investment Management.
This page shows how the streams differ on the Mathematics requirement, so you can choose a stream you can realistically enter.
Entry Requirements at a Glance
- School certificate: an NSC with admission to bachelor’s degree study.
- Mathematics: at the level the stream sets. At UP for 2027 that is level 4, 5 or 6 depending on the stream.
- English: at the level the university sets. UP asks for level 5 for the streams listed below.
- APS: the stream minimum, which differs between universities.
- Application: through each university’s own system, before its closing date.
Academic and Minimum Admission Requirements
The national minimum for bachelor’s study is an NSC with at least 30% in the language of learning and teaching of the institution, plus an achievement rating of 4 (50–59%) or better in four recognised 20-credit subjects (Department of Basic Education). Universities then add programme-specific levels.
The streams at UP, ordered by Mathematics demand (2027 intake, see the UP requirements tables):
- Mathematics 6: Accounting Sciences and Investment Management (APS 34), Econometrics (APS 32)
- Mathematics 5: Economics, Financial Management Sciences, Law, and Statistics and Data Science (APS 32); Information Systems and Agribusiness (APS 30)
- Mathematics 4: Business Management, Supply Chain Management, Marketing Management and Human Resource Management (APS 30)
Be honest with yourself about Mathematics. A stream at the top of this list is a hard place to discover that you are underprepared.
At the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), the BCom (General) asks for APS 38+, English level 5 and Mathematics level 5 (Wits BCom). It lets you postpone your choice of major: from second year you pick majors from Economics, Finance, Information Systems, Insurance and Risk Management, HR Management, Marketing and Management, or School of Accountancy courses.
Subjects, APS and Qualification Requirements
APS is set per programme and each university uses its own method, so a figure from one university cannot be compared directly with another. Confirm the figure and method for your intake year with the university.
Unisa’s BCom in Business Management (98310) asks for an NSC with degree endorsement and at least 50% in both the language of teaching and learning and Mathematics, or alternatively a completed higher certificate or diploma from its College of Economic and Management Sciences (Unisa qualification page).
If a professional designation such as CA(SA) is your goal, check with the professional body that your chosen degree is accredited for that route before you register. A stream that is not accredited may not lead to the designation by the standard route.
Documents and Application Requirements
Each university runs its own application, with its own document list and closing date. The 2027 closing dates at UP’s Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences (30 June 2026) and Wits (30 September 2026 for the BCom) have passed, so check each university’s website for the next cycle. You will normally be asked for your identity document and your school results, but confirm the exact list on the application page of the university you choose.
Selection, Intake and Eligibility Considerations
Meeting the minimum does not guarantee a place. Wits states that places are limited and selection depends on results and other criteria, and UP’s four-year BCom is a selection programme with additional criteria.
- Choose the stream on the Mathematics level you can meet and on where the degree leads, not on the name.
- Check the requirements for each stream separately.
- Ask whether you can move between streams after first year before you register.
- Apply to more than one university, since minimums vary for the same stream.
- Confirm professional-body accreditation if a designation is the goal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which BCom stream is easiest to get into?
At UP for 2027, Business Management, Supply Chain, Marketing and Human Resource Management have the lowest published Mathematics level (4) and APS (30). Other universities set their own levels, so compare before you apply.
Which stream leads to becoming a chartered accountant?
An accounting stream, such as Accounting Sciences at UP. Confirm with the professional body that the specific degree is accredited for the route before you register.
Can I switch streams later?
Sometimes. At Wits, the BCom (General) lets you choose your major from second year. For other streams, rules differ by university, so ask the faculty before you register.
Is Mathematical Literacy ever accepted?
The BCom streams quoted here set Mathematics levels and do not list Mathematical Literacy as a substitute. Ask the university directly, or look at other business qualifications whose published requirements accept it.
Stream requirements, APS minimums and closing dates change with each intake. Confirm them with the university. See admission requirements and browse all education requirements.