To become an attorney or advocate in South Africa you need an LLB degree. You can study a four-year LLB straight after matric, or first do a BA Law or BCom Law and then complete the LLB.
School subjects you'll usually need
| Subject | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| English | The most important subject. Law is reading, writing and arguing, so universities usually want a strong English mark. |
| Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy | Many universities accept either for the LLB. BCom Law usually needs Mathematics. |
| History, Business Studies or a second language | Not required, but they build the reading, writing and reasoning skills law uses every day. |
Requirements at selected universities
Minimums published on each university's website, checked 26 September 2026. Meeting the minimum doesn't guarantee a place, and competitive programmes usually select above it.
| University and programme | Minimum APS | Key subject requirements | Maths Literacy? |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Johannesburg (UJ), LLB | 31 with Mathematics, 32 with Maths Literacy | English 5 (60%), Additional Language 4 (50%), Mathematics 3 (40%) or Maths Literacy 4 (50%) | Yes |
| University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), LLB | Set by UKZN each year | Degree pass, English Home Language 5 or First Additional Language 6, Mathematics 3 or Maths Literacy 5 | Yes |
| Wits, LLB | Set by Wits each year | Wits considers Maths Literacy for the LLB | Yes |
English is the subject that matters most for law everywhere. UKZN asks First Additional Language learners for a higher English level than Home Language learners.
Your route from Grade 9 to lawyer
- Grade 9: choose subjects that build reading and writing: English, a second language, and History or Business Studies. Maths or Maths Literacy both work for most LLBs.
- Grade 10–11: focus on your English mark, because it's usually the deciding subject. Join debating or public speaking if your school offers it.
- Grade 12: apply early. Law is competitive, and places fill before final results come out.
- University: do a four-year LLB, or a BA Law or BCom Law followed by the LLB.
- After the LLB: complete practical training before you're admitted as an attorney or advocate.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Neglecting English. A strong APS with a weak English mark can still keep you out.
- Applying to BCom Law with Maths Literacy. Commerce degrees usually need Mathematics.
- Applying only to one university. Apply to several, with different APS levels.
Related careers
- Legal adviser, compliance officer, paralegal, tax practitioner and public administration roles.
What makes a law application stronger
LLB places are competitive, so your APS and English mark carry a lot of weight. Debating, public speaking and reading widely all help you prepare.
Always check the latest rules. Each university sets its own subject minimums and APS, and they can change every year. Use this page as a guide, then confirm on the university's prospectus before you choose subjects or apply.
Check your APS
Your subjects get you in the door; your APS decides how competitive you are. Work out your APS in one minute, then see which courses you qualify for in the EduRance app.
Three checks before applying for law
- Check the English or language requirement because an LLB involves intensive reading and writing.
- Confirm the institution's APS and whether it accepts Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy for that programme.
- Compare a direct LLB with routes that begin with a BA or BCom and continue into law.
Subjects such as History and Business Studies can develop useful skills, but they are not universal LLB requirements. The current prospectus remains the final source.
Frequently asked questions
Can I study law with Maths Literacy?
Yes, at many universities. If you want a BCom Law, you'll usually need Mathematics.
Is History required for law?
No. It helps with essay writing and critical thinking, but it isn't a requirement.
How long does it take to become a lawyer?
The LLB takes four years, followed by practical training before you can be admitted as an attorney or advocate.