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Subjects Needed to Become a Lawyer​ in South Africa

Subjects Needed to Become a Lawyer​ in South Africa

On this page, we’ve compiled everything you need to know about the subjects and academic requirements needed to become a lawyer in South Africa. If you’re looking to pursue a Bachelor of Laws (LLB), which is the essential qualification to practice law in South Africa, you’ll need to meet certain subject and APS (Admission Point Score) requirements. We’ve covered different universities, including UJ, UP, UCT, and UFS, to give you a clearer picture.

Here are the key subject requirements across these institutions:


University of Johannesburg (UJ) LLB Requirements

Minimum APS: 31 with Mathematics or 32 with Mathematical Literacy

  • English: Level 5 (60%)
  • Additional Language: Level 4 (50%)
  • Mathematics: Level 3 (40%)
  • Mathematical Literacy: Level 4 (50%)

You’ll need a good balance between English, Mathematics (or Mathematical Literacy), and an additional language. If you’re strong in these areas, you’re in good shape to apply for UJ’s LLB programme.

More on UJ LLB requirements


University of Pretoria (UP) LLB Requirements

For UP, the requirements are similar, but it’s important to note that Life Orientation is excluded from APS calculations.

Minimum APS: 32

  • English Home Language or English First Additional Language: Level 5 (60%)
  • Mathematics: Not compulsory

While Mathematics is not mandatory, achieving a high score in English is essential for this programme. UP also considers academic performance in other core subjects but allows flexibility depending on space availability.

More on UP LLB requirements


University of Cape Town (UCT) LLB Requirements

UCT is a bit more flexible when it comes to subject requirements for their LLB programme.

  • No specific subject requirements for Law
  • Mathematics is not compulsory
  • Admission is based largely on your matric results, excluding Life Orientation

UCT uses a redress system, meaning your background and disadvantage are taken into account. This approach ensures fair access to historically disadvantaged students. You will need a solid overall APS score from your six core subjects to qualify.

More on UCT LLB requirements


University of the Free State (UFS) LLB Requirements

Minimum APS: 33

  • English Home Language or English First Additional Language: 70% (Level 6)
  • Mathematical Literacy: 70% (Level 6)
  • Mathematics: 50% (Level 4)

UFS is a bit stricter with Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy requirements. You’ll need to achieve at least 70% in English and Mathematical Literacy, or 50% in Mathematics to be considered for their LLB programme. If you don’t meet these, UFS also offers a five-year programme that you may be considered for, depending on your results.

More on UFS LLB requirements


In Summary

Each university has its own specific requirements, but there are some common threads:

  • English is a critical subject across all institutions.
  • Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy is often required, but with varying minimum levels.
  • Universities like UCT focus more on overall academic performance rather than specific subjects.

If you’re aiming to study law in South Africa, it’s important to choose your subjects wisely in high school, with a focus on English, Mathematics, or Mathematical Literacy. Be sure to check the exact APS and subject requirements for your chosen university to ensure you meet the criteria.


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