Can You Study Actuarial Science at the University of Stellenbosch with an American High School Diploma?
- Jun 18
- 10 min read
Are you a homeschool student working towards an American High School Diploma and dreaming of becoming an Actuary? Stellenbosch University, one of Africa’s top institutions, offers a highly respected BCom in Actuarial Science and it might just be the perfect launchpad for your career.
Stellenbosch University (SU) is known for its beautiful campus, strong emphasis on research, and world-class actuarial program under the Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences. Their BCom (Actuarial Science) degree is accredited by the Actuarial Society of South Africa (ASSA) and aligns with international actuarial education standards.
But what if you have an American High School Diploma instead of the South African NSC?
Good news: yes, you can get in with an American High School Diploma!
But there are some important steps to follow to ensure your application meets all the university’s requirements. Here's what you need to know for a BCom (Actuarial Science) at the University of Stellenbosch.
What do Actuaries do?
An actuary is defined by the Actuarial Society of South Africa as a professional who applies analytical, statistical and mathematical skills to financial and business problems. This is especially valuable when facing real-world problems that involve uncertain future events or financial risk such as calculating the price an insurer should charge customers for various insurance benefits, understanding the impact that different investments have on a pension fund’s expected risk and return, or calculating a bank’s risk due to home-loan customers being unable to repay their mortgage debt. This ability to quantify that which is unclear helps individuals and businesses to safeguard their future, confidently and at a fair price, in an ever-changing world.
They are able to provide realistic solutions to complex problems with a long term forward view. They are recognized to be pragmatic, innovative and numerate. Actuaries operate within a strict professional and ethical framework, advancing equity across all stakeholders and promoting the public interest.
Actuaries undergo rigorous academic and practical training in order to master a wide range of skills, including:
Analyzing and managing uncertainty;
Financial and mathematical modelling, including mortality and morbidity rates;
Evaluating financial consequences;
Analysis of risk and risk management;
Scientific pricing and reserving techniques;
Asset/liability management;
Overall financial management, and
Communication of complex financial concepts in understandable terms
Degree Overview: BCom (Actuarial Science) at the University of Stellenbosch
At Stellenbosch University the courses offered by the Department of Statistics and Actuarial Science are designed to develop the skills needed by these professionals. Prospective students may choose from various degree programs that open the door to careers in Statistics, Actuarial Science and Financial Risk Management, among others.
The BCom (Actuarial Science) at Stellenbosch University equips students with the foundational technical, analytical, and financial knowledge to pursue a career as a professional actuary. Graduates are prepared for entry-level positions in the finance and insurance sectors or to continue with postgraduate studies and professional actuarial exams.
BCom (Actuarial Science) – Degree Overview
Faculty: Statistics and Actuarial Science
Department: The Department of Statistics
Duration: 3 years (full-time)
Campus: Stellenbosch Main Campus
Accreditation: Actuarial Society of South Africa (ASSA)
Curriculum
First Year | 154 credits
Compulsory Modules | First Semester | Second Semester |
Actuarial Science | 112 | 8 credits | 142 | 16 credits |
Business Management | 113 | 12 credits | 142 | 6 credits |
Computer Science | 113 | 16 credits | |
Economics | 114 | 12 credits | 144 | 12 credits |
Financial Accounting | 188 | 24 credits | |
Mathematics | 114 | 16 credits | 144 | 16 credits |
Probability Theory and Statistics | 144 | 16 credits |
Second Year | 136 credits
Compulsory Modules | First Semester | Second Semester |
Actuarial Science | 211 | 18 credits | 241 | 22 credits |
Economics | 214 | 16 credits | |
Financial Risk Management | 212 | 8 credits | |
Mathematical Statistics | 214 | 16 credits | 245 | 8 credits |
246 | 8 credits | ||
Mathematics | 214 | 16 credits | 244 | 16 credits |
Elective Modules At least 8 credits | First Semester | Second Semester |
Economics | 244 | 16 credits | |
Financial Risk Management | 242 | 8 credits |
Third Year | 144 credits
Compulsory Modules | First Semester | Second Semester |
Actuarial Science | 311 | 24 credits | 341 | 24 credits |
Actuarial Science | 371 | 32 credits | |
Mathematical Statistics | 312 | 16 credits | 344 | 16 credits |
316 | 16 credits | 364 | 16 credits |
You’ll also develop strong computational and data analysis skills — essential for solving real-world problems.
This degree is recognized by the Actuarial Society of South Africa (ASSA) and aligns with the Core Technical (CT) subjects of ASSA’s qualification pathway. High-performing students may be exempted from certain professional exams, giving them a head start toward becoming qualified actuaries.
Career Opportunities
Graduates can pursue careers as:
Actuaries (after completing professional exams)
Data Analysts
Risk Analysts
Investment Consultants
Insurance and Pension Specialists
Financial Modellers
Actuaries are in demand globally — especially in insurance, banking, investment firms, pension funds, and government agencies.
Further Information
For more information on the Actuarial program of the University of Stellenbosch contact either:
The actuarial science secretary at e-mail actuarial@sun.ac.za or on telephone +27 (0)21 808-3952, or
Ms. HM Cilliers at hmc@sun.ac.za (Tel: +27 (0)21 808-3249).
For information on the university registration process please contact:
Ms. L Delport at LaurenD@sun.ac.za (Tel: +27 (0)21 808-4837).
Students may wish to “job shadow” with an actuary to find out more about the actuarial profession. Students can contact the companies using actuaries directly to find out whether such opportunities exist.
For more information on an actuarial career visit the websites of:
The Actuarial Society of South Africa at www.actuarialsociety.org.za
The Institute and Faculty of Actuaries at www.actuaries.org.uk
Admission Requirements for the University of Stellenbosch
To understand what the University of Stellenbosch expects from all applicants, here are the requirements for students:
What are the minimum academic requirements for an NSC (National Senior Certificate) Pass?
In order to obtain a NSC pass in your Gr12 year, you must have a minimum of 7 subjects. Of these 7 subjects, you are required to have:
Two (2) South African languages;
Mathematics or Mathematics Literacy (1);
Three (3) 20-credit subjects and;
Life Orientation (1).
Furthermore, you have to pass with at least:
40% minimum for your Home Language;
40% for two other subjects and;
30% for two other subjects one of which must be an official language at First Additional or Home Language level and;
20% in the final subject
*Life Orientation will not be considered as part of your average.
What are the minimum academic requirements for a Bachelor's degree?
30% for a South African Language of Learning and Teaching (English or Afrikaans), and
an achievement rating of 4 (50% - 59%) in four 20-credit subjects.
What are the basic admission requirements to study at Stellenbosch University?
A National Senior Certificate (NSC) or Independent Examinations Board (IEB) school-leaving certificate as certified by Umalusi for admission to bachelor's degree studies.
Faculty-specific requirements. Click here to download the Minimum Admission Requirements for the 2026-intake
Download the the faculty-specific requirements for admission booklet:
How do the University of Stellenbosch assess international qualifications?
They use the final school results from an International Curriculum (Cambridge International, International Baccalaureate, American High School Diploma, etc.).
Click here for the minimum requirements for international curricula. (Cambridge A-levels, AS-levels, GCSE/IGCSE/O-levels; IB Diploma; American High School Diploma and Abitur)
Also, meet further requirements specific to the programme(s) of your choice as set out in the programme outlines under the various Faculties.
Contact Person responsible for South African citizens completing International Curricula:
Ms C. Grove-Le Guillou, e-mail: chantalg@sun.ac.za. SA citizens should visit Ms Grove-Le Guillou at the Admission Office in Admin A, Main Building, ground floor.
Matriculation exemption is a legal requirement for first-degree study at a South African university. If you have completed an international curriculum or foreign schooling system, you will need to make sure that you meet the requirements for matriculation exemption set by Universities South Africa (USAf).
Please check that you meet the requirements for your chosen degree programme, and that you have attained the indicated grades in the subjects listed in this booklet, on the indicated levels. Applications for matriculation exemption open 30 September of every academic year and close 30 November of every academic year.
Download the booklet for the minimum requirements for international curricula:
B.Com. (Actuarial Science)
Admission Requirements:
An NSC average based on the six best subjects, excluding Life Orientation, 80%
Mathematics 80%
Home Language 60%
If the Home Language (in the requirement above) is not English, then also English First Additional Language 75%
Admission is competitive, not guaranteed even if you meet the minimum requirements.
Stellenbosch typically shortlists early — aim to apply as soon as the application window opens.
You’ll be able to choose a focal area in your studies, such as:
Data Science
Financial Risk Management
Operations Research
But what if you studied in the U.S. system?
American High School Diploma – Is It Accepted for Actuarial Science at the University of Stellenbosch?
Yes, the University of Stellenbosch accepts the American High School Diploma for a BCom in Actuarial Science. However, since it is not automatically equivalent to South Africa’s National Senior Certificate (NSC), you must meet additional conditions to qualify for admission.
Here’s what you’ll need:
1. Accredited American High School Diploma
Your diploma must be from a recognized and accredited U.S. high school, such as those certified by regional bodies like:
WASC (Western Association of Schools and Colleges), NEASC (New England Association of Schools and Colleges), SACS, NCA, or AdvancED
Make sure you choose the Honors Pathway with at least 26 credits and maintain a solid GPA of 3.5/4.0 or higher.
Choose AP subjects like AP Calculus AB, AP Calculus BC and AP Statistics (exams are written at an external exam center, like the American International School of Cape Town.
2. Matriculation Exemption from USAf
South Africa requires all international students to obtain a Matric Exemption Certificate (also called a Bachelor’s Pass) from Universities South Africa (USAf).
This is a legal requirement to enroll in any South African university.
How to qualify:
Have a strong GPA (at least 3.5 or higher).
Submit either:
SAT scores of a minimum of 610 for English and 530 for Mathematics, OR
Advanced Placement (AP) scores, (at least two subjects passed on grade 3, 4) OR
National Benchmark Test (NBT) with the following scores:
For a STEM area degree program: “proficient scores” in Academic Literacy (AL), Quantitative Literacy (QL), and Mathematics (MAT),
You can apply for this certificate through mb.usaf.ac.za.
3. National Benchmark Tests (NBTs)
Even with SAT or AP results, Stellenbosch requires you to write the NBTs. These are university placement exams and play a role in your admission decision.
You’ll need:
AQL (Academic & Quantitative Literacy)
MAT (Mathematics) for math-heavy degrees like BCom Mathematical Sciences
Register at: www.nbt.ac.za
4. Submit Final and Predicted Grades
You’ll need to submit:
Grade 11 final report
Grade 12 predicted marks (if available)
Final diploma and transcripts once available
It’s a good idea to have them translated and certified if necessary.
How to apply
Download the booklet - How to apply for an Undergraduate Program:
Application Closing Dates:
1 April: Applications open for undergraduate programs.
31 July: Closing date for undergraduate programs and residence applications.
1 October: Applications open for financial assistance at Stellenbosch University.
31 October: Applications close for Stellenbosch University financial assistance.
15 December: Applications close for Diploma in Public Accountability (School of Public Leadership ).
Please click HERE for NSFAS application information, dates and contact details.
Students with Disabilities (including Autism)
The University is committed to assisting students with disabilities who comply with the relevant academic requirements to become fully-fledged integrated members of the student community. Please remember to complete the Student Support Form with regard to your specific needs and send it along with your application to the University. Where feasible and financially possible, the needs of students are catered for to make the campus accessible and student-friendly. The University coordinates the interests of students with disabilities from the Disability Unit.
For full particulars regarding the University's policy on students with disabilities and general information regarding accommodation, physical facilities, and support services which are available for students with disabilities, please contact:
Contact person: Dr Marcia Lyner-Cleophas, Disability Unit, Centre for Student Counselling and Development, Student Affairs. Email: cleophas@sun.ac.za | Tel: 021 808 4707
The Disability Unit offers a range of services to students with disabilities, from advice on appropriate academic support solutions, access to tailored study materials to access to financial support. The Unit’s activities are informed by the Disability Access Policy of the Stellenbosch University (SU). The Unit also aims to create an enabling environment that empowers students with disabilities to achieve their full potential through creating awareness and enabling effective integration into campus life and the student community.
Visit the Disability Unit's Facebook page at @sudisabilityunit for updates and information.
SUPPORT SERVICES
The Disability Unit facilitates access to numerous services at SU. These include financial support services, mental health, and counselling and psychological services.
Counselling and psychological services
We refer students to other services at the Centre for Student Counselling and Development, where counselling, career planning, stress and time management, and assistance with studies are provided.
Financial support
If you are in need of financial assistance, contact Junethe Cloete at the Centre for Bursaries and Loans at junethe@sun.ac.za, or phone the Contact and Client Service Centre at 021 808 9111. You can also apply for financial assistance with the National Student Financial Aid Scheme – visit www.nsfas.org.za for more information.
Health services
Students have access to qualified nurses and doctors at Campus Health Services. On the Stellenbosch Campus you will find them at 7 Claassen Street, and on the Tygerberg Campus they are in the Student Centre in Francie Van Zijl Drive. For more information, phone 021 808 3496/3494 (Stellenbosch Campus) or 021 938 9590 (Tygerberg Campus).
Mentors in residences
If you are a first-year student, you have access to a mentor. If you live on campus, you will have a residence mentor, and if you have private accommodation, you will have access to a mentor through one of the Commuter Student Communities (CSC) wards. Mentors can assist you when you experience any difficulties.
Example of a Path to Acceptance
Let’s say you:
Graduated from a WASC-accredited American high school like Acellus Academy with a 3.7 GPA
Scored 620 (English) and 590 (Math) on the SAT
Took AP Calculus and AP Statistics
Register and write your NBTs before the deadline
✅ You’re on track! You would likely qualify for the Matric Exemption and have a strong chance of admission—especially if you show strong math performance.
Key Dates
Action | Deadline (Typical) |
Stellenbosch Applications Open | April |
NBT Registration Deadline | August |
SU Application Deadline | September |
USAf Matric Exemption Application | Rolling, but apply early! |
Application Checklist for BCom (Actuarial Science)
Academic Requirements:
✅ Valid and accredited American High School Diploma (Honors Pathway)
✅ Final official high school transcripts (Grades 9–12)
✅ SAT scores OR
✅ Advanced Placement (AP) results in relevant subjects (e.g. Calculus, Statistics)
South African University Requirements:
✅ Register and write the National Benchmark Tests (NBT AQL and MAT) – www.nbt.ac.za
✅ Apply for a Matriculation Exemption Certificate from USAf – mb.usaf.ac.za
University Application:
✅ Create an online application profile at www.sun.ac.za
✅ Complete the application form
Upload all supporting documents:
ID
Final transcripts
SAT/AP results
Proof of NBT registration
Pay the international application fee
Post-Application:
✅ Monitor your application status and respond to any communication from the university
✅ Apply for on-campus accommodation (optional, but highly recommended)
Final Tips
📬 Apply early – Stellenbosch selection is competitive.
💻 Visit www.sun.ac.za to start your application.
🎯 Strong math results (SAT/AP/NBT) are essential for BCom Actuarial Science.
🌍 If English isn’t your first language, make sure your proficiency is clear.
📞 For help with exemptions, contact USAf at: exemption@usaf.ac.za
Need Help?
With planning and preparation, your American High School Diploma can open doors to an incredible student and academic experience in Stellenbosch.
Are you working towards your American High School Diploma, studying for AP exams, SAT's or preparing your NBTs? Not sure if your school qualifies? I’d be happy to help! Drop your questions below or reach out directly and book a consultation.
Commenti