This guide outlines the essential requirements for entry into various faculties at Rhodes University, ensuring that you are well-prepared for your application.
General Admission Criteria
To gain admission to Rhodes University, students must meet the following general criteria:
- Bachelor’s Pass: Students must qualify for a Bachelor’s pass, which entails achieving a minimum of four subjects at a rating of 4 (50-59%) or above in the National Senior Certificate (NSC).
- English Proficiency: A minimum achievement rating of 4 (50-59%) in English is mandatory.
- Recommended Subjects: At least four subjects must be selected from the recommended subject list, which includes Mathematics, Life Sciences, Physical Sciences, and more.
Minimum Faculty Requirements
Different faculties at Rhodes University have specific entry requirements. Here’s a breakdown of the minimum requirements for the most popular programs:
1. Commerce
- BCom Programs: English Level 4 (50-59%), Mathematics Level 4 (50-59%)
- Bachelor of Business Science: English Level 4 (50-59%), Mathematics Level 6 (70-79%)
- APS Range: 34-44
2. Education
- Requirements: English Level 4 (50-59%), Mathematics Level 3 (40-49%), or Mathematics Literacy Level 4 (50-59%)
- APS Range: 39-44
3. Humanities
- Requirements: English Home Language (60%) or English First Additional Language (65%)
- APS Range: 34-45+
4. Pharmacy
- Dean’s Discretion: Mathematics, Life Science, and Physical Science all at Level 5 (60-69%)
- Provisional Offer: All subjects at Level 6 (70-79%)
- APS Range: 40-44
5. Science
- BSc Programs: English Home Language (60%), English First Additional Language (65%), Mathematics Level 4 (50-59%), and either Life Science or Physical Science Level 5 (60-69%)
- APS Range: 39-45+
6. Law
- Requirements: English Home Language Level 5 (60-69%), English First Additional Language Level 6 (70-79%), Mathematics Level 4 (50-59%)
- APS Range: 40-45+
Calculating Your Admission Point Score (APS)
Your APS is calculated based on the percentages obtained in your NSC examinations. Each subject’s percentage contributes to the overall score, excluding Life Orientation. Here’s how to calculate it:
- Convert Percentages: For each subject, convert your percentage into points using the formula:
- Achievement Rating: 80-100% = 7 points, 70-79% = 6 points, 60-69% = 5 points, 50-59% = 4 points, 40-49% = 3 points, below 40% = 0 points.
- Total Points: Sum the points from your best six subjects to obtain your APS.
Example Calculation
| Subject | Percentage | Points |
|---|---|---|
| English Home Language | 78% | 7.8 |
| Afrikaans/isiXhosa | 73% | 7.3 |
| Mathematics | 69% | 6.9 |
| Life Sciences | 70% | 7.0 |
| Dramatic Arts | 89% | 8.9 |
| Accounting | 73% | 7.3 |
| Total | 45.2 |
Special Considerations
- Dean’s Decisions: Students with an APS between 38-44 may still be considered at the Dean’s discretion, often with additional conditions or through the Extended Studies Programme.
- National Benchmark Tests (NBTs): It’s advisable for first-time applicants to complete the NBTs, which include tests on academic and quantitative literacy as well as mathematics. These results can impact your admission decision.
International Applicants
International candidates must achieve an APS of 40 points and above for a firm offer. Requirements vary based on qualifications such as A-levels, AS-levels, and others. A minimum of two subjects at A-level and three at O-level is generally required.
Applying to Rhodes University
To apply, follow these steps:
- Register online at the Rhodes University Admissions Gateway.
- Complete the application form and submit it.
- Pay the R100 application fee.
- Ensure all documents are submitted by the deadline.