It’s not about choosing the hardest subjects for Grade 9 – it’s about choosing the right ones to open further studying doors.
Although choosing subjects for Grade 9 might seem like just another school admin task, it’s actually one of the most important decisions your child will make for their future. Why? Because those subject choices directly affect your child’s Admission Point Score (APS) – the key that unlocks university doors in South Africa.
With only a limited number of spots available at public universities each year, a strong APS gives students a clear advantage. And you don’t need to take the ‘hardest’ subjects to achieve it – just the right ones.
What is the APS – and why should you care?
Your child’s APS is calculated using their top six Grade 12 results (excluding Life Orientation). Each mark earns a point value, and the total determines whether they qualify for certain university courses.
That means the subjects chosen in Grade 9 have a long-term effect – they determine what your child can study later, and how well they’ll be able to perform when the pressure’s on in matric.
Choosing subjects that work for you
Many parents assume that subjects like Mathematics and Physical Sciences are essential for university admission – but that’s only true for specific career paths like medicine or engineering. For many other degrees (business, education, humanities), Mathematical Literacy is perfectly acceptable – and sometimes a smarter choice. For example: Scoring 75 percent in Mathematical Literacy earns more APS points than scraping by with 40 percent in Core Mathematics.
The key is matching subject choices to a student’s strengths and interests, not just external pressure. A lower mark in a misaligned subject can drag down the APS – and cause unnecessary stress along the way.
IEB students: Be aware of subject dependencies
In IEB schools, some subjects (like Physical Sciences) require students to take Core Mathematics. This means switching to Mathematical Literacy later could force students to drop a subject altogether – possibly midstream – making it harder to achieve top marks or maintain academic momentum. Make subject choices carefully in Grade 9, with a long-term view in mind.
Tools and tips to help make the right choice
Many schools now use technology to support better decision-making around subject selection. For example, ADvTECH schools use AI-based tools that help students:
- Explore career options linked to their subject interests
- Track academic performance in key areas like Maths, English, and Sciences
- Identify subjects they’re best suited to – academically and emotionally
But even without advanced tools, families can start with honest conversations about strengths, interests and career dreams. Speak to subject teachers, career guidance counsellors and older students for insight.
Beyond the APS: It’s about confidence and well-being too
While Life Orientation doesn’t count toward APS, it (and other non-core subjects) still play a role in developing essential life skills like resilience, communication and critical thinking. And for teens not heading to university, a good APS can still open doors to vocational training, trades or apprenticeships – all of which are in high demand in South Africa. Ultimately, subject choices should set your child up for success on their terms, not someone else’s idea of what success should look like.
Advice for parents
- Don’t push your child into subjects they’re not passionate about – support their strengths.
- Understand the why behind each subject choice, not just the what.
- Use available tools and school resources to make informed decisions.
- Keep the long-term goal in mind – not just getting into university, but thriving once they’re there.
Smart subject choices in Grade 9 can do more than boost APS-they can boost confidence, motivation and future potential. Start the conversation early, and choose wisely.
