HR management course requirements depend on the institution and level. At Unisa, the Unisa Diploma in Human Resource Management (98211) needs an NSC with diploma endorsement, 50% in the language of teaching and learning, and 40% in Mathematics or 70% in Mathematical Literacy (APS 17). The BCom in Human Resource Management (98307) needs a degree-endorsed NSC with 50% in Mathematics (APS 21). VUT’s HR Management needs an APS of 20 with Mathematics or 21 with Mathematical Literacy.
The figures below are for the 2027 intake. For wider study guidance see our education requirements.
Entry Requirements at a Glance
- Unisa Diploma in HR Management (98211): NQF 6, 360 credits, APS 17, maximum 8 years to complete
- Unisa BCom in HR Management (98307): NQF 7, 360 credits, APS 21
- VUT Human Resources Management: minimum APS 20 (Mathematics) or 21 (Mathematical Literacy), excluding Life Orientation
- Professional registration: the South African Board for People Practice (SABPP) ties each tier to a qualification plus HR experience
Academic and Minimum Admission Requirements
Unisa diploma (98211). An NSC with diploma endorsement, with at least 50% in the language of teaching and learning and at least 40% in Mathematics or 70% in Mathematical Literacy. Alternatively, any Higher Certificate in the College of Economic and Management Sciences.
Unisa BCom (98307). An NSC with degree endorsement, with 50% in the language of teaching and learning and 50% in Mathematics, or a completed higher certificate or diploma in the College of Economic and Management Sciences.
The Mathematics requirement is the practical difference between institutions, so a general “bachelor’s pass plus APS” is not enough to judge whether you qualify. Check the subject percentages as well as the APS.
Subjects, APS and Qualification Requirements
The VUT 2027 Undergraduate Minimum Admission Requirements states a minimum APS of 20 for Mathematics or Technical Mathematics and 21 for Mathematical Literacy, excluding Life Orientation. For Human Resources Management, VUT lists an NSC or NCV(4) endorsement, English at level 4, Mathematics at level 3 or Mathematical Literacy at level 4, and one other subject at level 4.
Other universities set their own subjects and APS for HR programmes. Check each institution’s 2027 prospectus before you apply.
Documents and Application Requirements
Unisa’s application window for 2027 undergraduate study ran from 17 August to 9 October 2026, so it has closed. See Unisa’s undergraduate admission page for what comes next. The application fee is R160 for online applications, paid once you have received your student number.
VUT’s academic closing date for 2027 was 30 September, and 31 October for residences; both have passed.
For professional registration, the SABPP member FAQs list the documents: certified copies of your two highest HR or HR-related qualifications, your ID or passport, a detailed CV, an organogram for HR Professional and above, and a SAQA letter for foreign qualifications.
Selection, Intake and Eligibility Considerations
Recognition of prior learning. Unisa’s route for the 98211 and 98307 qualifications requires you to be at least 30 years old, to have completed at least Grade 10, and to have at least five years’ relevant work experience.
SABPP tiers. HR Technician: a completed 1-year HR or HR-related certificate plus 1 year of HR experience. HR Associate: a 2-year HR or related diploma, 2 years of HR experience and Board Exam Level 1. HR Professional: a 3-year degree or diploma, 3 years of HR middle management experience, an organogram and Board Exam Level 1. Chartered HR Professional: a 4-year honours or postgraduate qualification, 4 years of senior HR management experience, and Board Exams Level 1 and 2.
The SABPP HR Candidate Programme is a 70-week competency-based programme for people with a completed 3-year HR or HR-related qualification who are employed in HR. Confirm registration fees with SABPP directly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the requirements for an HR management course?
Unisa’s diploma needs a diploma-endorsed NSC with 50% in the language of learning and 40% Mathematics or 70% Mathematical Literacy. Its BCom needs a degree-endorsed NSC with 50% in Mathematics. VUT needs APS 20 or 21 depending on your maths subject.
Can I do an HR management course without Mathematics?
Yes, on some routes. Unisa’s diploma accepts 70% in Mathematical Literacy, and VUT accepts Mathematical Literacy with an APS of 21. Unisa’s BCom asks for 50% in Mathematics.
What are HR management courses I can take with a higher certificate?
Unisa’s diploma (98211) accepts any Higher Certificate in the College of Economic and Management Sciences as an alternative to the NSC route.
How long does the Unisa HR diploma take?
It is a 360-credit NQF 6 qualification, and Unisa states a maximum of 8 years to complete it.
Can I apply now for 2027?
Unisa’s 2027 undergraduate window closed on 9 October 2026 and VUT’s academic closing date was 30 September. Check each institution for any later intake.
Do I need to register with SABPP to work in HR?
Registration is a professional step with its own tiers and experience requirements, covered above. Ask SABPP whether it applies to your role.
Confirm current requirements with the institution you are applying to and with SABPP for registration. See admission requirements and browse all education requirements.