The Rhodes University Online Application 2027 is the first step for students who want to study at Rhodes University in Makhanda, Eastern Cape.
Whether you are a current South African matriculant, a recent matric graduate, a gap-year student, a transfer applicant or an international student, it is important to understand the application dates, admission requirements, supporting documents and application fee before submitting your application.
Rhodes University offers undergraduate programmes across areas including Commerce, Education, Humanities, Law, Pharmacy and Science.
For the 2027 academic year, applications opened on 1 April 2026, with the main closing date for new applicants set for 30 September 2026. International applicants must also meet the 30 September deadline, and late international applications are not considered.
Key Application Dates
Estimated 2027 Opening and Closing Deadlines
The main Rhodes University 2027 application dates are:
- Applications opened: 1 April 2026
- Undergraduate application closing date: 30 September 2026
- International undergraduate application closing date: 30 September 2026
- Postgraduate applications: Closing dates can vary by programme, with many falling later in the year
- Late applications: South African late applications may be considered at the discretion of the Registrar
Applicants should not wait until the final day to submit an application.
Rhodes University states that the closing date for applications from new students is 30 September, and this is also the official deadline for foreign applicants.
For international applicants, the deadline is particularly strict because Rhodes University states that applications received after 30 September cannot be considered.
Rhodes University Admission Requirements
Rhodes University does not use one simple APS requirement for every degree.
The admission requirement depends on the faculty and qualification you select.
For standard degree admission, applicants need to qualify for Bachelor’s degree study under the National Senior Certificate system and satisfy the specific requirements of their chosen faculty.
Applicants should therefore check:
- Overall APS
- English achievement level
- Mathematics or Mathematics Literacy requirements
- Life Sciences requirements
- Physical Sciences requirements
- Other programme-specific subjects
- Available spaces
- Additional selection requirements
Rhodes University states that meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee acceptance.
How Rhodes University Calculates APS
Rhodes University’s APS calculation is different from some South African universities.
The university calculates the score using the percentages achieved in six subjects, excluding Life Orientation but including English and any subjects required for the particular programme.
Results below 40% do not attract points.
For example, a student who achieves:
- English: 78% = 7.8 points
- 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
would have an APS of 45.2 points.
Simple Rhodes University APS Guide
The following table is a simplified planning guide based on the university’s published faculty requirements. Applicants must check the exact qualification requirements before applying.
| Degree Category | Min APS Range | Typical Closing Month |
|---|---|---|
| Commerce | Around 34–45+ | September |
| Education | Around 39–44+ | September |
| Humanities | Around 34–45+ | September |
| Law | Around 40–45+ | September |
| Pharmacy | Around 40–45+ | September |
| Science | Around 39–45+ | September |
Important: The ranges above are not guaranteed admission cut-offs. Rhodes University uses faculty-specific requirements and may consider some applicants at the Dean’s discretion.
An APS of 45 or higher is associated with automatic acceptance requirements in the published admission information for many faculties, while applicants below that level may still be considered under specific circumstances.
Step-by-Step Online Application Process
Official Rhodes University Application Website
Rhodes University applications are submitted through the university’s Rhodes Online Services System (ROSS).
Official online application portal:
Rhodes University Online Application Portal (ROSS)
You can also access application information through the university’s official Admission Gateway:
Rhodes University Admission Gateway
How to Submit Your Application Online
Follow these steps when completing your Rhodes University 2027 application.
Step 1: Research Your Programme
Before creating an application, decide which qualification you want to study.
Review:
- Degree name
- Faculty
- Minimum APS
- Required subjects
- Required subject percentages
- Campus
- Programme-specific requirements
- Whether NBTs are recommended or required
Do not select a course simply because your APS appears high enough.
Some programmes have specific subject requirements that must be satisfied in addition to the overall APS.
Step 2: Register on ROSS
Go to the Rhodes University application portal:
Start a Rhodes University Application
Select the option to register as a new user.
You will need to provide information such as:
- Surname
- First name
- Citizenship
- ID or passport number
- Cellphone number
- Email address
- Password
Use your own active email address.
Step 3: Activate Your Account
After registering, Rhodes University will send an activation email.
Open the email and click the activation link.
This will take you back to the ROSS system.
Complete the activation process before attempting to log into the application.
Step 4: Log Into ROSS
Use the email address and password you created during registration.
Make sure you select the correct application/admission option when entering the system.
The university’s instructions specifically direct new applicants to use the Admission/Other option after activating their account.
Step 5: Enter Your Personal Information
Complete the personal-information section carefully.
You may be asked for:
- Full name
- ID number or passport number
- Date of birth
- Citizenship
- Nationality
- Contact details
- Email address
- Residential information
Make sure the information matches your official identification documents.
Step 6: Enter Your Academic Information
Provide your school and academic information accurately.
Current matriculants can apply before their final matric results are available.
Prepare your:
- Final Grade 11 results
- Latest Grade 12 results where available
- Final matric results if you have already completed school
Applicants who have already attended another university should also disclose their previous studies.
Step 7: Choose Your Degree
Select the qualification you want to apply for.
Before making your selection, confirm that you satisfy both:
General university requirements
and
Faculty-specific requirements.
For example, applicants interested in Science or Pharmacy may need particular results in Mathematics, Life Sciences and/or Physical Sciences.
Step 8: Complete the Application Questions
Some parts of the Rhodes University application ask for additional information about your academic background, circumstances and other relevant details.
Complete these sections fully.
This can be particularly important for applicants who may be considered under Dean’s discretion.
Do not leave relevant information out if it could help the university understand your academic circumstances.
Step 9: Upload Supporting Documents
Upload the documents requested by the university.
Make sure every document is:
- Clear
- Legible
- Complete
- Correct
- In the required electronic format
Check that your name and identification number match the information in your application.
Step 10: Accept the Terms and Conditions
Before submitting the application, carefully review the declaration and terms and conditions.
Tick the relevant acceptance box when you are satisfied that the information you have supplied is accurate.
Step 11: Submit Your Application
Once every required section has been completed, submit the application.
Do not confuse saving your application with formally submitting it.
After submission, keep your:
- Application number
- Login details
- Confirmation email
- Payment confirmation
in a safe place.
Step 12: Pay the Application Fee
After submitting the application, you will need to pay the required R100 non-refundable application fee.
The ROSS system provides payment options.
If you choose to pay through a bank deposit, use your application number as the payment reference and submit proof of payment as instructed by the university.
Required Supporting Documents
South African Applicants
South African undergraduate applicants should prepare the following documents:
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Latest Grade 11 results if currently in Grade 12
- Final Grade 12/matric certificate if you have already completed matric
- Academic transcript if you previously attended another university
- Certificate of good conduct where applicable for transfer applicants
- Proof of application-fee payment
- Any additional programme-specific documents
Do not upload documents that are unclear or incomplete.
Grade 11 Results
Current Grade 12 learners should have their final Grade 11 results available when starting the application.
These results can be used for the initial assessment.
You should not wait until final matric results are released before starting the application process.
Grade 12 Results
Applicants who have already completed matric should submit their final NSC or equivalent school-leaving results.
Gap-year students should generally use their final matric results when applying.
If you have rewritten or upgraded subjects, provide the latest official results where applicable.
Transfer Students
If you have previously studied at another university, Rhodes University may require additional documentation.
Prepare:
- Official academic transcript
- Previous university certificate of conduct where applicable
- Matric certificate
- Details of previously completed courses
- Course outlines where credit recognition is requested
Applicants should disclose previous tertiary studies accurately.
Proof of Address Rules
A general proof of residential address is not listed as a standard document required from every undergraduate applicant.
The normal application documentation focuses on identification, school results, previous academic records where applicable and programme-specific requirements.
Therefore, you should not assume that every Rhodes University applicant needs to upload:
- Municipal bill
- Bank statement
- Utility bill
- Lease agreement
unless the university specifically requests one.
If proof of address is requested for your particular application or another administrative process, follow the instructions provided by Rhodes University.
International Applicants
International applicants must meet additional admission requirements.
Prepare:
- Valid passport
- School-leaving qualification
- Latest academic results
- Relevant certificates and transcripts
- Foreign qualification/exemption documentation where required
- Proof of application-fee payment
- Any English-language documentation required
- Other documents requested by the university
Rhodes University states that international applicants need an appropriate qualification equivalent to the South African National Senior Certificate and must satisfy the relevant exemption requirements.
For applicants using qualifications such as A Levels, AS Levels, IGCSE, HIGCSE or International Baccalaureate, the university provides specific requirements.
International applicants should therefore check the foreign-student admission information before submitting their application.
Application Fee & Payment Details
How Much Is the Rhodes University Application Fee?
The application fee for new applicants is:
R100
The fee is:
- Non-refundable
- Required for the initial application
- Applicable to South African and international applicants
Rhodes University’s current application information states that initial applications must be accompanied by the R100 application fee.
Is the Rhodes University Application Free?
No.
Rhodes University requires a R100 non-refundable application fee.
Applicants should be careful with third-party websites that claim the university has a free application process.
Do not pay additional money to individuals who promise guaranteed admission.
How Can You Pay?
When applying online through ROSS, payment options are provided by the application system.
If you pay through a bank deposit:
- Use your application number as the reference
- Keep the deposit slip
- Submit proof of payment according to the university’s instructions
Do not send cash with an application.
Keep your payment confirmation until the application process is completely finished.
International Payment Considerations
International applicants should follow the payment instructions provided by Rhodes University.
The university also provides international payment arrangements for student fees, but applicants should follow the specific instructions given for the application fee rather than using an unrelated payment channel.
What Happens After You Apply?
After you have:
- Completed the application
- Submitted it
- Paid the application fee
- Supplied the required documents
Rhodes University can begin assessing your application.
Your application may be evaluated based on:
- APS
- School results
- Required subjects
- Faculty requirements
- Programme capacity
- NBT results where applicable
- Additional information supplied in the application
National Benchmark Tests
Rhodes University recommends that first-time South African university applicants write the National Benchmark Tests (NBTs).
The NBT Academic and Quantitative Literacy test is recommended for all applicants.
The Mathematics test is relevant to applicants seeking admission to areas such as:
- Commerce
- Pharmacy
- Science
NBT results may also be considered when an applicant does not meet automatic-entry requirements and the application is reviewed at the Dean’s discretion.
Applicants should check the NBT website for test dates, registration and venues.
Does Meeting the Minimum APS Guarantee Admission?
No.
Meeting the minimum academic requirements does not guarantee acceptance.
Rhodes University clearly states that applicants who satisfy minimum requirements may still not be admitted.
This can happen because:
- A programme has limited capacity
- There are many qualifying applicants
- Faculty selection requirements apply
- Academic results are used to differentiate applicants
For competitive programmes, applying early is therefore strongly advisable.
What If Your APS Is Below the Automatic Admission Requirement?
Do not automatically assume that you cannot apply.
Rhodes University provides for Dean’s discretion in certain circumstances.
Applicants who do not meet the automatic APS threshold may still be considered depending on their academic profile and other relevant information.
The university also has an Extended Studies Programme for a limited number of students who demonstrate potential to succeed but require an additional year of supported study.
This is one reason it is important to complete the application thoroughly.
If you have experienced significant educational, financial, family or other circumstances that affected your academic performance, provide accurate information where the application allows you to explain your circumstances.
What If You Miss the Primary Application Deadline?
The main deadline for 2027 new-student applications is 30 September 2026.
There is an important distinction between South African and international applicants.
South African Applicants
Rhodes University’s application information indicates that late applications from South African students may be considered at the discretion of the Registrar.
This does not mean that every late application will be accepted.
If you miss the deadline:
1. Contact Rhodes University immediately.
Ask whether late applications are still being considered for your chosen programme.
2. Do not assume that a late application will be accepted.
Late consideration depends on the university and available capacity.
3. Submit your application as soon as possible if the university permits you to do so.
Do not wait for another deadline if late applications are being considered.
4. Check alternative programmes.
If your preferred programme is full, investigate another qualification that matches your academic subjects and career interests.
International Applicants
International applicants should treat 30 September 2026 as a strict deadline.
Rhodes University states that late applications from foreign students cannot be considered after 30 September.
If you are an international applicant and miss the deadline, contact the university immediately, but do not assume that an exception will be granted.
If You Cannot Apply for 2027
If you cannot secure a place for the 2027 academic year, consider:
- Applying to another university that is still accepting applications
- Considering a related qualification
- Improving matric results
- Rewriting selected subjects
- Preparing for the next application cycle
- Completing relevant short courses
- Gaining work or volunteer experience
Use the additional time to strengthen your next application rather than waiting until the next application period begins.
Advice for Current Matriculants
If you are currently in Grade 12, start your application before your final matric results are released.
Prepare your:
- Final Grade 11 results
- Identity document
- Programme choices
- Applicant information
- Application fee
Do not wait until December or January to begin.
By that point, the application deadline will already have passed.
Advice for Gap-Year Students
Gap-year students can apply using their final matric results.
Before applying:
- Calculate your Rhodes University APS
- Check faculty-specific requirements
- Check required subjects
- Prepare your matric certificate/results
- Prepare your ID
- Prepare any previous tertiary academic records
- Check whether NBTs are recommended for your chosen field
If your gap year involved additional studies or an academic upgrade, include the relevant information.
Advice for International Applicants
International applicants should begin much earlier than the final deadline.
You may need additional time for:
- Qualification evaluation
- Exemption documentation
- Certified copies
- Passport documentation
- English-language requirements
- Student visa preparation
- Financial planning
- International student administration
Most importantly, do not miss the 30 September 2026 deadline.
Rhodes University does not consider late applications from foreign students.
Rhodes University 2027 Application Checklist
Before submitting your application, make sure you have:
- Checked the 30 September 2026 deadline
- Selected your qualification
- Checked the faculty-specific admission requirements
- Calculated your APS
- Checked required subjects
- Prepared your South African ID or passport
- Prepared your Grade 11 results if currently in matric
- Prepared your final Grade 12 results if you have completed matric
- Prepared your academic transcript if you are a transfer student
- Prepared a certificate of conduct where applicable
- Prepared international qualification documents if applicable
- Created your ROSS account
- Activated your account through email
- Completed the online application
- Uploaded all required documents
- Paid the R100 application fee
- Saved your payment confirmation
- Submitted the application
- Saved your application number
- Kept your ROSS login details safe
- Checked your application status regularly
Final Thoughts
The Rhodes University Online Application 2027 process opened on 1 April 2026, and the main application deadline for new students is 30 September 2026.
Rhodes University uses a faculty-specific admission system, so students should not rely on a single university-wide APS figure when deciding whether they qualify.
The university’s published requirements show that an APS of 45 or above can meet automatic-admission requirements for many faculties, while applicants with lower scores may still be considered through faculty-specific processes such as Dean’s discretion or the Extended Studies Programme.
The application fee is R100 and is non-refundable.
South African applicants should prepare their ID and Grade 11 or Grade 12 results, while international applicants should prepare their passport, school-leaving qualifications and any required exemption or qualification-evaluation documentation.
Applications are submitted online through the Rhodes Online Services System (ROSS).
For South African applicants who miss the deadline, late applications may be considered at the Registrar’s discretion. International applicants should treat 30 September 2026 as a strict deadline, because Rhodes University states that foreign applications submitted after that date cannot be considered.
The safest approach is simple: check your programme requirements, prepare your documents early, pay the application fee, submit before the deadline and keep monitoring your application status.
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