BCom Accounting Requirements 2026: APS & Maths
Compare BCom Accounting admission requirements in South Africa, including APS scores, Mathematics marks and universities. Verify current criteria before applying.
BCom Accounting General Requirements 2026
Planning to study BCom Accounting in South Africa? This guide covers the general admission requirements across all major South African universities, including minimum APS scores, required subjects, fees, and how to choose the right institution for your goals.
What Is BCom Accounting?
A Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting (BCom Accounting) is a 3-year undergraduate degree that prepares students for careers in accounting, auditing, financial management, and commerce. It is also the foundation for becoming a Chartered Accountant (CA(SA)) via the SAICA accreditation pathway.
General APS Requirements for BCom Accounting by University
APS (Admission Point Score) requirements vary significantly across institutions. Below is the 2026 guide:
| University | Programme | Minimum APS | Maths Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stellenbosch University (SU) | BAccounting (BAcc) | 70+ (scale of 100) | Maths 70%+ |
| Stellenbosch University (SU) | BAccLLB | 80+ (scale of 100) | Maths 70%+ |
| University of Cape Town (UCT) | BCom Accounting | Highly competitive — NBT required | Maths 70%+ |
| University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) | BCom Accounting | 42+ | Maths 6 (70%+) |
| University of Pretoria (UP) | BCom Accounting Sciences | 32+ | Maths 5 (60%+) |
| University of the Western Cape (UWC) | BCom Accounting | 30+ | Maths 4 (50%+) |
| UNISA | BCom Accounting | 23+ | Maths 4 (50%+) |
| Nelson Mandela University (NMU) | BCom Accounting | 28+ | Maths 4 (50%+) |
Important before applying: The scores in this table are a starting point, not a guarantee of admission. Universities may use different APS calculations, subject-level minimums, selection rules and programme names. Some figures use different scoring scales and should not be compared directly. Check the current official prospectus and admissions page for your exact qualification and application year, including whether Mathematics, English, NBTs or additional selection steps are required. Use our APS calculator as a planning aid, then confirm the result with the university.
Compulsory Subjects for BCom Accounting
Most universities require the following NSC subjects for BCom Accounting:
- Mathematics (not Maths Literacy) — at a minimum level of 50–70% depending on the university
- English (Home Language or First Additional Language) — minimum 50%
- Accounting (recommended but not always compulsory)
- Any other 3 approved NSC subjects
Important: Mathematical Literacy is not accepted in place of Mathematics at most universities for BCom Accounting.
How to Calculate Your APS
Your APS is calculated from your Grade 12 (NSC) subject results. Each subject receives a score from 1 to 7:
| Percentage (%) | Rating Code | APS Points |
|---|---|---|
| 80–100% | 7 (Outstanding) | 7 |
| 70–79% | 6 (Meritorious) | 6 |
| 60–69% | 5 (Substantial) | 5 |
| 50–59% | 4 (Adequate) | 4 |
| 40–49% | 3 (Moderate) | 3 |
| 30–39% | 2 (Elementary) | 2 |
| 0–29% | 1 (Not Achieved) | 1 |
Your APS is the sum of your six best subjects (excluding Life Orientation, which is counted at half-value or excluded at most universities).
Use our free APS Calculator to calculate your score instantly.
BCom Accounting Fees in South Africa (2026)
Tuition fees for BCom Accounting vary by institution and can change each academic year. The ranges below are rough planning estimates, not official quotations; confirm tuition, residence and other charges with the university before budgeting.
- UNISA: ~R18,000–R22,000 per year (distance learning)
- UWC, NMU, UFS: ~R40,000–R55,000 per year
- UP, Wits: ~R50,000–R70,000 per year
- UCT, Stellenbosch: ~R60,000–R85,000 per year
All public universities accept NSFAS funding for qualifying students. If your household income is below R350,000/year, you may qualify for full NSFAS coverage.
Is BCom Accounting SAICA Accredited?
To become a Chartered Accountant (CA(SA)), your BCom Accounting degree must be from a SAICA-accredited institution. Accredited institutions include: Stellenbosch University, UCT, Wits, UP, UKZN, Nelson Mandela University, and others. Check the SAICA website for the full list.
Tips for Meeting BCom Accounting Requirements
- Focus on Mathematics: A strong Maths mark opens doors to top universities — aim for 70%+ to be competitive
- Study Accounting in Grade 11 & 12: While not always compulsory, Accounting gives you a head start
- Use AI tutoring: StudyBuddy's AI tutor helps you master Maths, Accounting and all CAPS subjects
- Apply to multiple universities: Include at least one safety option (e.g., UNISA) alongside your first-choice institution
- Apply early: Some universities close BCom Accounting applications by June — don't miss the deadline
Frequently Asked Questions About BCom Accounting Requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum APS for BCom Accounting?
The minimum APS for BCom Accounting varies widely: UNISA accepts from 23+, most mid-tier universities require 28–32+, while top institutions like Stellenbosch require 70+ (on their 100-point scale) and UCT is highly competitive with NBT testing. Always check the specific university's requirements for the current year.
Do I need Mathematics or Maths Literacy for BCom Accounting?
You need Mathematics (pure Maths), not Mathematical Literacy, for BCom Accounting at most universities. The required percentage varies — UNISA and some UoTs accept Maths at 50%, while top universities like UCT and Stellenbosch require 70% or higher.
Is Accounting compulsory for BCom Accounting?
Accounting as a matric subject is recommended but not compulsory at most universities for BCom Accounting. However, having it gives you a significant advantage in first-year studies. Mathematics is far more important as a compulsory requirement.
Does NSFAS cover BCom Accounting at all universities?
NSFAS covers BCom Accounting at all public universities (e.g., UNISA, UWC, Wits, UP, UCT, Stellenbosch). Private institutions like Varsity College are not NSFAS-funded but may offer their own bursaries. Apply for NSFAS from October at www.nsfas.org.za.
Which BCom Accounting degree is SAICA accredited?
SAICA-accredited BCom Accounting programmes are offered at UCT, Stellenbosch, Wits, UP, UKZN, UJ, NMU, North-West University, and others. Completing a SAICA-accredited degree is a requirement to qualify as a Chartered Accountant CA(SA). Check the current SAICA list at saica.co.za.