- 15 Sep, 2025
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What Subjects Are Needed to Become a Doctor in Grade 10?
Introduction
For many South African learners, the dream of becoming a doctor starts early. Medicine is one of the most respected and rewarding careers — but it is also one of the most competitive. The journey begins long before university. In fact, it begins in Grade 9, when learners select their Grade 10 subjects.
This decision matters. Choosing the wrong subjects can close doors to medical school. On the other hand, choosing the right combination of subjects — and excelling in them — can set a learner on the path to fulfilling their dream of becoming a doctor.
At Apex Academic Centre, we help parents and learners navigate this crucial stage with guidance, tutoring, and support. Our mission is to ensure that when learners make this life-changing choice, they do so with clarity and confidence.
Why Subject Choices in Grade 10 Are So Important
When learners move from Grade 9 into Grade 10, they shift from general learning into specialised academic tracks. Universities in South Africa set strict admission requirements for Medicine, and those requirements are tied directly to subject choices.
If a learner does not take the correct subjects now, it will be almost impossible to qualify for medical school later. Choosing wisely in Grade 10 is, therefore, the foundation of a medical career.
Compulsory Subjects for All Learners
All South African learners must take four compulsory subjects:
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Home Language (e.g., English HL, Afrikaans HL, isiZulu HL)
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First Additional Language
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Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy
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Life Orientation
👉 Important: Learners who want to study Medicine must take Mathematics, not Mathematical Literacy. Mathematical Literacy is not accepted for medical school admission.
Core Subjects Required for Medicine
To study Medicine (MBChB) in South Africa, learners must include these subjects in Grade 10:
1. Mathematics
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Required by every medical school.
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Minimum requirement: 70–80% at most universities.
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Builds problem-solving and logical reasoning skills essential for medicine.
2. Physical Sciences (Physics + Chemistry)
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A core requirement for Medicine.
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Needed to understand physiology, biochemistry, and anatomy in medical school.
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Universities often require a minimum of 70–80% in Physical Sciences.
3. Life Sciences (Biology)
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Strongly recommended by most universities.
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While some may not list it as compulsory, it is essential for understanding human biology and preparing for first-year Medicine modules.
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Learners with Life Sciences generally cope far better in medical school.
👉 Without these three subjects — Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and Life Sciences — learners will not qualify for Medicine at South African universities.
Elective Subjects Learners May Choose
Learners must select additional subjects to make up their seven-subject portfolio. While these do not directly influence medical school admission, they can:
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Boost overall marks and APS (Admission Point Score).
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Showcase additional skills.
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Provide balance between challenging core subjects.
Examples of good electives:
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Geography (helps with scientific analysis and data interpretation).
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Information Technology (IT) (develops problem-solving).
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Accounting or Business Studies (adds variety, helps boost APS).
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History or Visual Arts (if the learner is strong in them and can score highly).
University Requirements for Medicine in South Africa
Every medical school has strict admission rules. While requirements vary slightly, most South African universities expect:
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Mathematics: Minimum 70–80%
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Physical Sciences: Minimum 70–80%
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Life Sciences: Strongly recommended (minimum 65–70%)
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APS Score: 40–45 points (varies by university)
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National Benchmark Tests (NBTs): Some universities require these.
⚠️ Universities receive thousands of applications each year. At Wits, UCT, and Stellenbosch, there may be 5,000 applicants for fewer than 500 seats. High marks are not just helpful — they are essential.
Why Academic Support Matters in Grade 10–12
The leap from Grade 9 to Grade 10 can be overwhelming. Suddenly, learners face more complex maths, demanding science experiments, and heavy content in Life Sciences. Without support, many learners fall behind, even if they were strong students in earlier grades.
At Apex Academic Centre, we understand this pressure. Our tutors provide:
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One-on-one subject support in Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and Life Sciences.
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Study skills coaching to help learners manage the workload.
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Progress tracking to identify and close learning gaps early.
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Parental updates so parents can support their child effectively.
Emotional Value of Choosing the Right Subjects
For learners, choosing subjects can feel like deciding their entire future at age 15. This brings anxiety, uncertainty, and pressure. Parents also feel the weight of these decisions.
By making informed choices, families give learners:
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Peace of mind that doors to Medicine will remain open.
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Confidence knowing they are on the right track.
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Motivation to work hard, knowing their effort has purpose.
At Apex, we don’t just provide tutoring — we provide encouragement, mentorship, and a supportive environment where learners can thrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I become a doctor without Physical Sciences?
A: No. Physical Sciences is a compulsory subject for Medicine at all South African universities.
Q: Is Life Sciences compulsory?
A: Not always, but it is strongly recommended. Without it, learners may qualify for admission, but they will struggle in medical school.
Q: What APS score is needed for Medicine?
A: Most universities require 40–45 points, with at least 70–80% in Mathematics and Physical Sciences.
Q: Can I switch from Mathematical Literacy to Mathematics later?
A: No. Choosing Mathematical Literacy in Grade 10 closes the door to Medicine. Learners must choose Mathematics from the start.
Call to Action
Choosing Grade 10 subjects is one of the most important academic decisions a learner will ever make. For those aspiring to become doctors, the right subjects are not optional — they are essential.
At Apex Academic Centre, we guide learners and parents through this process with expert advice, subject-specific tutoring, and proven support systems. With our help, learners can not only choose the right subjects but also excel in them.
📞 Contact Apex today to ensure your child is on the path to Medicine with the right Grade 10 subject choices.