Rhodes University Prospectus, Application Requirements

Application Requirements – Rhodes University

Your application will only be considered for admission to the University if you qualify for Bachelor’s degree study AND you satisfy the faculty requirements.

To qualify for with a Bachelor’s pass status, learners are required to take seven subjects, four of which are compulsory (two languages, Life Orientation and either Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy) and three of the learner’s own choice from the subjects on offer at the school.

To qualify for degree studies at a University at least four of the seven subjects must be from the list of ‘designated subjects’ set out below and the student must have obtained an achievement rating of 4 (adequate achievement 50 – 59%) or above in these four subjects.

NOTE: If you meet the minimum admission requirements this only means that you are eligible for selection; it does NOT mean that you will necessarily be accepted.

You can apply online at Rhodes University here:

Rhodes University Online  Application

National Benchmark Test (NBT) Opportunity at Rhodes before Applying

It is recommended that all first-time university entering South African applicants write the NBT’s.

If the applicant does not meet the automatic entry requirements the NBT results will be used by the Dean to make decisions on applications.

These test results can also be used if a candidate does not meet the entrance requirements in their final examinations.

There are two NBT’s. The Academic and Quantitative literacy test (AQL) consists of two components, namely academic literacy and quantitative literacy.

An applicant will be awarded separate scores for each component, even though they are written as one test.

Applicants to all faculties should write the AQL. The Mathematics test is based on the Mathematics Grade 12 Syllabus.

Applicants who wish to enter Pharmacy, Science or Commerce should write the Mathematics Test. One score is awarded for the Mathematics Test.

For further information about the NBT’s, dates and venues, please visit www.nbt.ac.za or 021 650 3523.

International requirements

40 points and above will receive a firm offer, 37 – 39 points will remain on hold until the end of September to be considered by the Dean if space is available.

For candidates who offer A, O, HIGCSE & IGCSE, five different subjects are counted.

The basic minimum requirement for admission to the University is a certificate of Full Exemption or Foreign Conditional Exemption from the Matriculation Board.

Applicants who have passed A levels are eligible for full exemption provided the passes in approved subjects meet the following requirements:

• A-level:  symbols A-E (minimum of 2 subjects)
• AS-level: symbols A-D (4 subjects and 1 at O-level)
• O-level:  symbols A-C (maximum of 3 subjects)
  

At least 2 subjects at A-level and 3 different subjects at O-level or 3 subjects at A-level and 2 at O-level

HIGCSE/IGCSE qualification:

• HIGCSE:  symbols 1-3 (4 subjects)
• IGCSE:  symbols A-C (1 subject)
• International Baccalaureate (B)
• 3 High level (HL) subjects:  Grade 4
• 4 Standard Level (SL) subjects:  Grade 5

When is the closing date for applications?

The closing date for applications from all new students for admission to the University is 30 September. This is also the official deadline for foreign applicants.

Initial applications for admission must be accompanied by a non refundable application fee of R100 for all applicants.

Late applications will be considered.