So, you want to become an actor? Well, this career is all about talent, passion, and performance, but before you hit the stage or screen, you need to meet the right requirements to study drama at a South African university.
On this page, we’ve gathered the subjects required for different acting and drama programmes, so you know exactly what you need in high school to qualify. We’ve also included links to the official courses so you can check them out and apply when you’re ready.
Just a quick tip—acting is not just about memorising lines! You need confidence, creativity, and strong communication skills. If you love performing and storytelling, then this could be the perfect career for you!
List of Subjects Needed to Become an Actor in South Africa
Below you will find the subjects required to become an actor, based on actual drama courses offered at different universities:
1. University of Pretoria (UP) – Bachelor of Drama (BDram)
Below are the required subjects at UP for a Bachelor of Drama (BDram), in order to become an actor:
UP offers a three-year BDram programme, designed for students who want to specialise in theatre, film, and performance. To get in, you’ll need strong English skills and an audition.
- APS Score:
- Grade 11 APS: 30
- Final NSC APS: 28
- Subjects Required:
- English Home Language OR First Additional Language: Level 5 (60%)
- Additional Requirements:
- You must pass an audition to be admitted.
- Admissions take place in August on an ad-hoc basis.
- Life Orientation is excluded from the APS calculation.
2. University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) – BA in Theatre and Performance
Below are the required subjects at Wits for a BA in Theatre and Performance, in order to become an actor:
Wits offers a four-year Theatre and Performance degree, designed for students who want to specialise in acting, directing, musical theatre, or theatre production.
- APS Score: 34
- Subjects Required:
- English Home Language OR First Additional Language: Level 5 (60%)
- Wait-listing:
- Applicants with an APS of 30-33 and English 60% may still be considered if space is available.
- Additional Requirements:
- You must pass an audition.
- Audition Process:
- Perform a monologue (1 to 1.5 minutes long).
- The monologue must be from a published play (no self-written pieces or random monologues from the internet!).
- If you’re interested in design, directing, musical theatre, or physical theatre, you must submit a portfolio or motivation letter.
3. Durban University of Technology (DUT) – Diploma in Drama
Below are the required subjects at DUT for a Diploma in Drama, in order to become an actor:
DUT offers a practical, performance-based diploma, focused on stage and film acting. The selection process includes multiple auditions and interviews.
- APS Score: 24
- Subjects Required:
- English: Level 4 (50%)
- Second Language: Level 3 (40%)
- Additional Requirements:
- First Audition:
- Perform a monologue, a poem, and a dance, song, or mime of your choice.
- Second Audition (November/December):
- Demonstrate skills in improvisation, movement, sight-reading, or singing.
- Interview & Communication Skills Test Required.
- First Audition:
4. University of the Free State (UFS) – BA Drama and Theatre Arts
Below are the required subjects at UFS for a BA in Drama and Theatre Arts, in order to become an actor:
UFS offers a Drama and Theatre Arts degree, combining performance, directing, and writing. The selection process includes an essay, video submission, and an interview.
- APS Score: 30
- Subjects Required:
- English: Level 4 (50%)
- Additional Requirements:
- Selection Process:
- Write an essay (max 700 words) about why you want to study drama.
- Submit a video answering pre-set questions.
- Upload a letter of recommendation from a drama teacher or community leader.
- (Optional) Submit an audition video (a 2-minute monologue from a play or movie).
- Second-Round Interview (if required):
- Interviews may be held in person or online via Zoom/Skype.
- Selection Process:
Final Thoughts – Which One Is Easier to Qualify For?
If you’re looking for the easiest entry, DUT has the lowest APS requirement (24), making it the most accessible option. However, DUT has a rigorous audition process.
For the toughest entry, Wits has the highest APS requirement (34) and requires an intense audition process, making it the most competitive choice.
UP and UFS fall somewhere in between:
- UP requires an APS of 28 and a successful audition.
- UFS requires an APS of 30 and an extensive selection process (essay, video, recommendation letter, and interview).
If you prefer a practical, performance-based course, DUT is a great choice. But if you want a strong academic and theoretical approach, Wits and UFS are excellent options.
Comparison Table of Drama Degree Requirements
| University | Course Name | APS Required | English Requirement | Additional Selection Criteria |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UP | BDram | 28 | Level 5 (60%) | Audition required |
| Wits | BA Theatre and Performance | 34 (Wait-list from 30-33) | Level 5 (60%) | Audition required (monologue, motivation letter for other specialisations) |
| DUT | Diploma in Drama | 24 | Level 4 (50%) | Two audition rounds, improvisation, interview, communication skills test |
| UFS | BA Drama and Theatre Arts | 30 | Level 4 (50%) | Essay, video submission, letter of recommendation, optional audition video, interview |
Final Verdict
- For the easiest entry: DUT (Lower APS requirement but multiple audition stages).
- For the hardest entry: Wits (Highest APS requirement + intense audition process).
- For a balanced approach: UP (Moderate APS + audition) or UFS (Selection process includes an essay, video submission, and recommendation).
Acting is a tough industry, but if you have the passion, dedication, and talent, one of these universities could be your first step to a successful career in theatre and film!
How to Become an Actor in South Africa – As a University/College Graduate
As we have explored the subjects required to become an actor in the previous sections, let’s explore how to become an actor in South Africa if you are a university or college graduate:
- Graduate with Your Qualification – Complete your acting or drama qualification from a recognised university or college.
- Build Your Portfolio – Prepare a professional headshot, acting CV, and showreel showcasing your best performances.
- Attend Auditions – Apply for roles in theatre, film, TV, and commercials. Use casting agencies and online platforms to find opportunities.
- Network in the Industry – Connect with directors, producers, and fellow actors at industry events, film festivals, and theatre productions.
- Get an Agent – Sign with a reputable talent agency to gain access to better roles and professional representation.
- Join Professional Bodies – Register with organisations like the South African Guild of Actors (SAGA) to stay informed and protected in the industry.
- Keep Training and Improving – Take acting workshops, voice training, and performance classes to refine your craft and stay competitive.
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