Admission Requirements at Rhodes University (RU)
Your admission to Rhodes University (RU) hinges on meeting the specific admission requirements or Admission Point Score (APS) for your chosen qualification. Failure to meet these requirements may necessitate considering alternative qualifications or, if eligible, enrollment in an extended program (refer to the college admission requirements), which allows registration for limited modules in the first year.
Rhodes University Admission Requirements:
Entry Requirements:
- Your application will only be considered for admission if you qualify for Bachelor’s degree study AND satisfy the faculty requirements.
- To qualify with a Bachelor’s pass status, learners must take seven subjects, including four compulsory subjects (two languages, Life Orientation, and either Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy), and three subjects of their choice.
- For admission to degree studies, at least four of the seven subjects must be from the list of ‘designated subjects’ and achieve a rating of 4 (adequate achievement 50 – 59%) or above.
Designated Subject List:
- Accounting
- Agricultural Science
- Business Studies
- Consumer Studies
- Dramatic Arts
- Engineering Graphics and Design
- Economics
- Geography
- History
- Information Technology
- Languages
- Life Sciences
- Music
- Mathematics/Mathematical Literacy
- Religion Studies
- Physical Science
- Visual Arts
Note: Meeting the minimum admission requirements does not guarantee acceptance.
How to Calculate Your Admission Point Score (APS):
- The percentages achieved in National Senior Certificate examinations (preliminary and final examinations) are allocated an admissions score.
- The sum of six subject scores, excluding Life Orientation but including English and any other required subject(s) for the relevant program, is considered for admission.
- Results below 40% for any subject do not attract a score. Mathematics Paper 3 does not contribute to the APS score.
Examples of Points Calculations:
- English Home Language: 78% = 7.8 points
- Afrikaans/isiXhosa first/Additional Language: 73% = 7.3 points
- Mathematics: 69% = 6.9 points
- Life Sciences: 70% = 7.0 points
- Dramatic Arts: 89% = 8.9 points
- Accounting: 73% = 7.3 points
- Life Orientation: 90% = 0 points
- Additional Mathematics: 60% = 0 points
- Total Points: 45.2 points
Dean’s Decisions:
- Offers are usually made based on provisional results, pending final examinations. Conditional offers may be made if provisional scores are promising.
- If the APS score is below 45 points for automatic acceptance, consideration may still be given at the Dean’s discretion. Offers with APS scores of 38 – 44 may be considered with additional conditions.
Extended Studies Programme:
- This program offers an alternative route to university studies at Rhodes, particularly for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
- Successful candidates undergo a supportive learning environment and an extended degree program over an additional year.
National Benchmark Tests (NBT’s):
- First-time university-entering South African applicants are advised to write the NBT’s.
- NBT results may be used by the Dean to make decisions on applications or in cases where entrance requirements are not met in final examinations.
International Requirements:
- Applicants with 40 points and above receive firm offers, while those with 37 – 39 points remain on hold for further consideration.
- International applicants must meet specific requirements based on their educational qualifications.
Faculty Requirements:
- Different qualifications have specific requirements in terms of points, Dean’s discretion, and extended studies. For instance, Mathematics is a prerequisite for certain programs like Commerce and Economics.
Note: Life Orientation is not counted for points but is required for acceptance. Candidates with older versions of the South African Senior Certificate must provide a certified copy of their matriculation exemption certificate. Additionally, for Law studies, specific subject requirements must be met, including a minimum level in Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy.
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Related Resources
Student Loans in South Africa: How to Apply and What to Expect
For many young South Africans, accessing higher education is a dream that often comes with a financial challenge. Fortunately, several student loan optionsstrong> are available in South Africa to help fund university, college, or TVET studies. Whether you’re looking for a government loan like NSFAS or a private student loan from a bank, understanding the process is essential for success.
What Are Student Loans?
Student loans are a form of financial aid provided to eligible students to help cover tuition fees, books, accommodation, and other study-related expenses. In South Africa, these loans can come from government institutions like NSFAS or private banks such as Nedbank, Standard Bank, FNB, and Absa. Most loans offer repayment flexibility and low-interest options until you graduate.
Types of Student Loans in South Africa
- NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme): A government-funded loan/grant program for students from low-income households. Covers tuition, housing, transport, and meals.
- Bank Student Loans: Offered by most major banks. These are credit-based and require a guardian or parent as a co-signer.
- Private Loan Providers: Companies like Fundi offer educational loans covering various costs such as school fees, gadgets, and textbooks.
Requirements to Qualify for a Student Loan
Each provider has its own criteria, but most South African student loans require the following:
- Proof of South African citizenship or permanent residency
- Proof of registration or acceptance at a recognised tertiary institution
- Parent or guardian with a stable income to co-sign (for private loans)
- Completed application form with supporting documents (ID, proof of income, academic records)
How to Apply for a Student Loan
To apply for a student loan in South Africa, follow these steps:
- Identify your loan provider: Choose between NSFAS, a bank, or a private lender.
- Gather necessary documents: ID copies, academic transcripts, acceptance letters, and income statements.
- Complete the application form online or at a branch.
- Await approval: Some banks offer instant decisions, while NSFAS can take a few weeks.
- Receive disbursement: Funds are typically paid directly to the institution or your account, depending on the lender.
Loan Amounts and Repayment
The loan amount you can receive depends on your chosen lender and financial need:
- NSFAS: Covers full tuition, residence, books, and a personal allowance. The loan becomes a bursary if you pass all your courses.
- Banks: Can provide up to R120,000 or more annually, depending on tuition costs and credit history.
Repayment usually starts after graduation or once you start earning an income. Bank loans may require interest-only payments during your studies. NSFAS repayment only begins when you earn above a specific income threshold.
FAQs on Student Loans in South Africa
1. Can I apply for a student loan without a parent or guardian?
For government loans like NSFAS, yes. But most banks require a financially responsible co-signer, especially for students without an income.
2. Is NSFAS a loan or a bursary?
NSFAS starts as a loan, but it converts to a bursary if you meet academic performance requirements. This means you may not have to pay it back.
3. What is the interest rate on student loans?
Private banks offer competitive rates between 5% and 12%, depending on the applicant's credit profile. NSFAS charges a much lower interest rate, usually linked to inflation.
4. What happens if I fail my courses?
If you’re funded by NSFAS and fail, your loan won’t convert into a bursary, and you’ll need to repay the full amount. Banks may continue charging interest, and your co-signer may be held liable.
5. Can I use a student loan to pay for accommodation and laptops?
Yes. Both NSFAS and many bank student loans cover costs beyond tuition, including housing, meals, textbooks, and electronic devices like laptops or tablets.
Final Thoughts
Student loans in South Africa offer a much-needed financial lifeline to thousands of students every year. Whether you're applying through **NSFAS** or a private bank, ensure you understand the **terms, interest rates, and repayment conditions** before signing any agreement. Make informed decisions today to secure your academic and financial future tomorrow.