Admission requirements

Admission Requirements

  • A National Senior Certificate (issued from 2008) or a Grade 12 certificate
  • Minimum APS requirements for Degree studies: 22 (or p-count: at least 14)
  • Minimum APS requirement for Diploma studies: 15 (or p-count of at least 10)
  • Since English is the language of instruction at The Open Window, English will be a required subject with a minimum APS of 4 (50%).
  • Even though Art or art-related subjects are not a requirement, acquiring skills in drawing is of paramount importance for students to pass all levels.
  • The passing of The Open Window selection tests for learners who meet the minimum requirements.
  • All applicants must show creative potential, above average problem-solving skills, basic drawing competency and observational abilities.
  • Six subjects are taken into account to compute the APS. (Life Orientation is excluded). All subjects carry equal value.

Click here for a diagram of the admission requirements.

The p-count system (prior to 2008)

The p-count works on a mark allocation system, and can be worked out as follows:

Double the highest mark achieved in one of the two languages and add to the numeric value of the symbols. Click here for an example.

International students

An international student’s application must include:
  • Certification and qualification endorsement (for qualifications obtained outside South Africa) of all your qualifications. Contact the Centre for the Evaluation of Education Qualifications (CEEQ) through SAQA (the South African Qualifications Authority) at Tel: 012 431 5070 or email ceeq@saqa.co.za,or visit their website (http://www.saqa.org.za) to obtain further information.
  • A valid study permit or proof of permanent residency. A study permit is normally issued for a period not exceeding 12 (twelve) months, and therefore must be renewed after the expiry date. A study permit is only valid for the course of study for which the original approval was intended. Should the student change his/her course of study, the student must notify the Department of Home Affairs thereof.
  • Transcripts of academic records completed at any other educational institution (if any).
  • Certified copies of certificates, diplomas or degrees previously obtained (if any).
  • A certified copy of your birth certificate or ID document. (Marriage or divorce decree for different surnames).
  • A condensed curriculum vitae.
  • All academic applications for admission are subject to a selection process. (See How to apply).
  • Do not email your portfolio or any of the other documents, we need original work. Please mail the application and all related documents to:
  • The Academic Director
  • The Open Window
  • PO Box 68371
  • Centurion
  • South Africa 0169