Rhodes University Requirements

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:

  1. 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).
  2. English Proficiency: A minimum achievement rating of 4 (50-59%) in English is mandatory.
  3. 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:

  1. 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.
  2. Total Points: Sum the points from your best six subjects to obtain your APS.

Example Calculation

SubjectPercentagePoints
English Home Language78%7.8
Afrikaans/isiXhosa73%7.3
Mathematics69%6.9
Life Sciences70%7.0
Dramatic Arts89%8.9
Accounting73%7.3
Total45.2

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:

Need Information or Confused about Something ?

Ask a Question
  1. Register online at the Rhodes University Admissions Gateway.
  2. Complete the application form and submit it.
  3. Pay the R100 application fee.
  4. Ensure all documents are submitted by the deadline.

 


Sponsored Guide


Complete Guide to NSFAS Online Loan Application for South African Students (2025)

If you are a South African student looking to pursue higher education but are facing financial difficulties, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is one of the most accessible funding options available. NSFAS provides financial aid in the form of bursaries and loans to qualifying students at public universities and TVET colleges in South Africa.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the NSFAS loan application process, from eligibility requirements to application steps and frequently asked questions.


📌 What is NSFAS?

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government-funded financial aid scheme aimed at helping students from low- and middle-income households to access tertiary education without the burden of upfront fees.

NSFAS offers both bursaries and income-contingent loans:

  • Bursaries: For eligible students who meet academic and household income criteria (especially for TVET and university students).
  • Loans: For students who do not meet all bursary criteria or who are pursuing postgraduate qualifications not funded under bursary schemes.

✅ Who Qualifies for an NSFAS Loan?

To qualify for an NSFAS loan (especially for postgraduate students or programs not funded under the bursary system), you must:

  • Be a South African citizen.
  • Be financially needy, with a household income of less than R350,000 per year.
  • Have a valid South African ID.
  • Be enrolled or accepted to study at a public university or TVET college.
  • Not be funded through another bursary program that covers all expenses.
  • Maintain satisfactory academic progress (returning students).

📚 Courses Funded by NSFAS

NSFAS primarily funds undergraduate qualifications, but certain postgraduate programs (e.g., PGCE, postgraduate diplomas in education, and professional courses like LLB) may be considered under the NSFAS loan scheme, not bursaries.

If you’re studying:

  • Undergraduate degree or diploma: You are likely eligible for a full NSFAS bursary.
  • Postgraduate study: You may qualify for a loan, depending on the course and funding availability.

📄 Required Documents for NSFAS Application

When applying, make sure you have the following documents scanned and ready:

  1. Certified copy of your South African ID or Smart Card.
  2. Parent(s) or guardian(s) ID documents.
  3. Proof of income (latest payslips, UIF, or affidavit if unemployed).
  4. Consent Form signed by your parent(s)/guardian(s) to allow NSFAS to verify income.
  5. Proof of registration or acceptance at a public institution.
  6. Academic transcripts (for continuing or postgraduate students).

🖥️ How to Apply for an NSFAS Loan Online

Step-by-Step NSFAS Online Application Process (2025)

  1. Visit the NSFAS Website

    Go to: https://www.nsfas.org.za

  2. Create an Account

    • Click on “MyNSFAS” and register your profile.
    • You’ll need a valid email address and South African cellphone number.
    • Choose a strong password and verify your account via email or SMS.
  3. Login and Start the Application

    • After registration, log in to your MyNSFAS account.
    • Click on “Apply” to begin a new application.
  4. Fill in Your Personal Details

    • Input your ID number, name, surname, and other details exactly as they appear on your ID.
    • Provide household income information and living arrangements.
  5. Upload Required Documents

    • Upload all supporting documents in PDF or JPEG format.
    • Each document must be clear and under the size limit specified.
  6. Submit Your Application

    • Review your application for accuracy.
    • Click “Submit” and wait for a confirmation message.
  7. Track Your Application

    • Log in regularly to check your application status.
    • You will be notified via SMS and email at each stage of the process.

🗓️ Important NSFAS Dates (2025)

  • Application Opening Date: September 1, 2025
  • Application Deadline: January 31, 2026
  • Appeals Period: February 2026 (if rejected)
  • Disbursement: After registration and approval

Note: Dates are subject to change; always confirm on the official NSFAS website.


💸 What Does the NSFAS Loan Cover?

NSFAS funding typically includes:

  • Tuition fees
  • Registration fees
  • Accommodation (if living away from home)
  • Meals and transport
  • Learning materials (e.g., textbooks)

For loans, repayment is only required once you start working and earn above a threshold (around R30,000 annually, but subject to change).


🔄 NSFAS Loan Repayment

Repayments are:

  • Income-contingent – you only repay when you can afford to.
  • Administered by DHET (Department of Higher Education and Training).
  • Interest-bearing, but interest rates are low and favorable.

You can also apply for a partial loan conversion to a bursary if you perform well academically.


🔁 How to Appeal a Rejected NSFAS Application

If your application is rejected, you may submit an appeal via your MyNSFAS portal:

  1. Log into your MyNSFAS account.
  2. Click on “Track Funding Progress”.
  3. If rejected, click on “Submit Appeal”.
  4. Upload any missing or corrected documents.
  5. Provide a clear explanation or motivation.

📱 NSFAS Contact Information


📝 Final Tips Before Applying

  • Apply early to avoid system overload near the deadline.
  • Use your own email and cellphone number (do not use someone else’s).
  • Double-check that all your documents are certified and legible.
  • Keep a copy of your submission confirmation for reference.

By following this guide, you can confidently apply for NSFAS funding and move one step closer to achieving your academic and career dreams—without the burden of immediate financial pressure.