When I was in high school, I had this vague dream of becoming a lawyer. It wasn’t because I watched too many courtroom dramas (though I’ll admit Suits had me hooked for a while). It was more about the idea of standing up for what’s right, unraveling complex problems, and maybe, just maybe, making a difference. But back then, I had no clue what it actually took to study law in South Africa.
I’d sit in class, doodling in my notebook, wondering if I was taking the right subjects or if I was already messing up my future. If you’re reading this, you’re probably in a similar boat—maybe a bit confused, maybe excited, but definitely curious about what high school subjects you need to study law in South Africa. Let’s figure this out together, step by step, like we’re chatting over coffee.
The truth is, studying law in South Africa doesn’t require you to take some super-specialized subject in high school that unlocks the door to a law degree. It’s more about building a solid foundation with the right mix of skills and grades.
Universities here have their own rules, and they’re not all the same, which can make things feel overwhelming. But don’t worry—I’ve done the legwork, digging into what places like the University of Cape Town (UCT), Wits, and others expect. By the end of this, you’ll have a clear picture of what subjects matter, why they matter, and how to set yourself up to study law in South Africa.
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Why High School Subjects Matter for Law
Before we dive into the specifics, let’s talk about why your subject choices in high school even matter when you want to study law in South Africa. Law is a demanding field. It’s not just about memorizing rules or arguing in a courtroom (though that’s part of it). It’s about thinking critically, communicating clearly, and solving problems that aren’t always black-and-white. The subjects you take in high school are like the first bricks in that foundation. They shape how you think, how you write, and how you handle complex ideas.
Universities know this, which is why they set specific admission requirements. To study law in South Africa, you need to pass your National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a bachelor’s degree pass—that’s the bare minimum to even apply to a university. But beyond that, certain subjects show up again and again in admission criteria, not because they teach you law directly, but because they prepare you for the skills you’ll need once you’re in a lecture hall or reading a 200-page legal textbook.
So, what are these subjects? Let’s break it down, starting with the ones that are non-negotiable.
The Must-Have Subjects to Study Law in South Africa
English: The Heart of Legal Studies
If there’s one subject you can’t skip when planning to study law in South Africa, it’s English. Every university I looked at—UCT, Wits, the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), you name it—puts English front and center. Why? Because law is all about language. You’ll be reading dense legal texts, writing essays, drafting arguments, and maybe even presenting cases one day. If your English skills aren’t sharp, you’re going to struggle.
Most universities require English Home Language or English First Additional Language at a specific level, usually around 60-70% (level 5 or 6 on the NSC scale). For example, Wits wants English at level 6 (70-79%) for their four-year LLB program. UKZN asks for English Home Language at level 5 or First Additional Language at level 6. The University of Pretoria (UP) is a bit more flexible but still expects an APS of 5 (60-69%) in English. The point is, to study law in South Africa, you need to be comfortable with English—not just passing, but really excelling.
I remember struggling with English in high school, especially with essays. I’d stare at a blank page, not knowing how to start. But the more I practiced, the better I got at organizing my thoughts and expressing them clearly. That’s exactly the kind of skill you’ll need to study law in South Africa. So, if English isn’t your strongest subject right now, don’t panic—just put in the work. Read more, write more, and maybe even ask your teacher for extra feedback.
Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy: The Numbers Game
Here’s where things get a bit trickier. When I first thought about studying law in South Africa, I assumed math wouldn’t matter. I mean, law’s about words, not numbers, right? Turns out, I was only half-right. Many universities require some form of math—either Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy—to study law in South Africa. It’s not because you’ll be solving equations in court, but because math teaches you logical reasoning and problem-solving, which are huge in law.
The requirements vary. Wits, for instance, wants Mathematics at level 5 (60-69%) or Mathematical Literacy at level 6 (70-79%). UKZN is a bit more lenient, asking for Mathematical Literacy at level 5 or Mathematics at level 3. The University of Johannesburg (UJ) requires Mathematics at 40% (level 3) or Mathematical Literacy at 50% (level 4). UCT, on the other hand, doesn’t explicitly require math but tests your quantitative skills through the National Benchmark Tests (NBTs).
This variation can feel confusing, but here’s the takeaway: to study law in South Africa, you should probably take either Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy, depending on what you’re better at. If you’re aiming for a competitive program like Wits, go for Mathematics if you can handle it—it keeps more doors open. But if numbers aren’t your thing, Mathematical Literacy is often enough, as long as you hit the required level.
I’ll be honest—I wasn’t a math whiz in high school. I took Mathematical Literacy because it felt more manageable, and I still got into university (not for law, but you get the point). The key is to check the specific requirements for the universities you’re interested in. Don’t assume one size fits all when you’re planning to study law in South Africa.
Recommended Subjects to Strengthen Your Application
Okay, so English and some form of math are the big players. But what about other subjects? Are there any that aren’t required but can give you an edge when you apply to study law in South Africa? Absolutely. These subjects won’t make or break your application, but they can help you stand out and prepare you for the road ahead.
History: Context for the Law
History is one of those subjects that keeps popping up when people talk about preparing to study law in South Africa. It’s not mandatory, but it’s super relevant. Law doesn’t exist in a vacuum—it’s shaped by history, politics, and society. Studying History in high school can give you a head start on understanding things like constitutional law or the legal history of South Africa, which is a big deal given our past.
I loved History in school, not because I was great at memorizing dates, but because it felt like reading stories about real people and real change. If you take History, you’ll practice analyzing sources, building arguments, and thinking critically—all skills you’ll need to study law in South Africa. Plus, it can make your application look well-rounded, especially if you’re aiming for a top university like UCT or Stellenbosch.
Additional Languages: A Global Advantage
Another subject worth considering is an additional language, like Afrikaans, isiZulu, or even French. Law is increasingly global, and knowing more than one language can be a huge asset, especially if you want to work in international law or with diverse clients. Some universities, like UJ, even include an additional language in their admission criteria (50% or level 4).
I took Afrikaans as a second language in high school, mostly because it was required, but I ended up appreciating how it helped me connect with people from different backgrounds. To study law in South Africa, you don’t need to be fluent in multiple languages, but having that extra skill can make you more versatile and show universities you’re willing to challenge yourself.
Economics or Business Studies: For the Commercial Side
If you’re thinking about corporate law or commercial law, subjects like Economics or Business Studies can be helpful. They’re not required to study law in South Africa, but they introduce you to concepts like markets, finance, and business operations, which can come in handy later. Plus, they teach you to think logically and understand systems—skills that translate well to legal studies.
I didn’t take Economics myself, but my friend did, and she said it helped her wrap her head around complex ideas in her law degree. If these subjects interest you, they’re worth considering as part of your plan to study law in South Africa.
University Requirements: A Closer Look
Now that we’ve covered the subjects, let’s talk about how universities actually decide who gets to study law in South Africa. Each university has its own admission process, and the requirements can feel like a maze. To make it easier, I’ve put together a table comparing the key subject requirements for some of the top law schools in the country. This should give you a quick reference point, but always check the university’s website for the latest details.
| University | English Requirement | Mathematics/Mathematical Literacy | Other Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| UCT | No specific level, assessed via NBTs | No specific requirement, Quantitative Literacy NBT | Uses a points system and NBTs; redress policies apply |
| Wits | Level 6 (70-79%) | Mathematics Level 5 or Mathematical Literacy Level 6 | APS 46+ for LLB; wait-list for APS 43-45 |
| UKZN | Level 5 HL or Level 6 FAL | Mathematical Literacy Level 5 or Mathematics Level 3 | Life Orientation at Level 4 required |
| UP | APS 5 (60-69%) | No specific requirement, APS-based | Total APS of 32, excluding Life Orientation |
| UJ | 60% (Level 5) | Mathematics 40% (Level 3) or Mathematical Literacy 50% | Additional Language at 50% (Level 4) |
Why Requirements Vary
You might be wondering why these universities can’t just agree on one set of rules to study law in South Africa. The short answer? They’re all trying to find students who fit their specific programs. Wits, for example, has a reputation for being super competitive, so they set high benchmarks like level 6 English and a hefty APS of 46. UCT, on the other hand, uses NBTs to get a broader picture of your skills, which can be great if you don’t meet strict subject levels but still shine academically.
When I was applying to university, I remember stressing about whether my marks were “good enough.” What I didn’t realize is that universities look at the whole picture—your grades, your NBT scores (if required), and sometimes even your background. To study law in South Africa, you need to meet the minimum requirements, but going above and beyond can make a big difference, especially at competitive schools.
Practical Tips for High School Students
So, you’ve got a sense of the subjects and requirements. Now what? Here are some practical tips to help you prepare to study law in South Africa while you’re still in high school:
- Focus on English: Read books, practice writing essays, and work on your vocabulary. The better your English, the easier it’ll be to study law in South Africa.
- Choose Math Wisely: If you’re good at Mathematics, stick with it—it’s more versatile. If not, Mathematical Literacy is fine for most programs, but aim for a high mark.
- Take History or Languages: These subjects aren’t mandatory, but they can give you an edge and make your application stand out.
- Check University Websites: Requirements change, so visit the websites of universities like UCT, Wits, or UKZN to confirm what you need to study law in South Africa.
- Prepare for NBTs: If you’re applying to UCT or other schools that use National Benchmark Tests, practice for the Academic and Quantitative Literacy sections.
- Aim High: Law programs are competitive. To study law in South Africa, you’ll need strong grades, so don’t slack off in Grade 11 or 12.
- Talk to Teachers or Counselors: They can help you pick subjects and plan your path to study law in South Africa.
The Bigger Picture: Why This Matters
Choosing the right subjects to study law in South Africa isn’t just about ticking boxes for university applications. It’s about setting yourself up for success in a field that’s challenging but incredibly rewarding. Law is about understanding people, systems, and justice. The subjects you take now—English, Math, History, or whatever else you choose—are building the skills you’ll lean on when you’re drafting a contract, arguing a case, or helping someone navigate a legal issue.
When I think back to my high school days, I wish I’d been more intentional about my subject choices. I didn’t end up studying law, but I know now that the effort I put into English and critical thinking shaped how I approach problems today. If you’re set on studying law in South Africa, you’re already ahead of the game by thinking about this now. Keep your grades up, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to ask for help along the way.
Final Thoughts
Studying law in South Africa is a journey, and it starts long before you step into a university lecture hall. By focusing on English, choosing the right math option, and maybe picking up History or an extra language, you’re laying the groundwork for a strong application. But more than that, you’re building the skills you’ll need to thrive in a law degree and beyond.
Take it one step at a time. Check the requirements for the universities you’re interested in, talk to your teachers, and keep working hard. The path to study law in South Africa isn’t always straightforward, but with the right subjects and a bit of determination, you’ll be ready to take it on. Who knows? Maybe one day you’ll be the one standing in a courtroom, making a difference.