Rhodes University admits students based on an Admission Point Score (APS) calculated from their actual percentages, along with faculty subject requirements. Each faculty sets points bands for a firm offer, the Dean's discretion and extended studies. The figures below come from the Rhodes entry requirements page.
How Rhodes calculates your points
Rhodes turns each subject percentage into points by dividing it by 10. For example, 78% in English earns 7.8 points, and 69% in Mathematics earns 6.9 points. Your APS is the sum of six subjects, which must include English and any subject that your programme requires. Rhodes leaves out Life Orientation, and subjects below 40% earn no points.
Mathematics Paper 3 does not count towards your APS, although Rhodes records the result for the Dean to note. Rhodes considers both your preliminary and final National Senior Certificate results.
Points bands by faculty
- Commerce (BCom): a firm offer from 45 points, with the Dean's discretion from 38 to 44, and English and Mathematics at level 4
- Bachelor of Business Science: Mathematics at level 6, with its own points bands
- Humanities: a firm offer from 45 points, with the Dean's discretion from 37 to 44. You need 60% in English home language or 65% in English first additional language.
- Science (BSc): a firm offer from 45 points, with Mathematics at level 4 and Life Sciences or Physical Sciences at level 5
- BSc (Information Systems): a firm offer from 45 points, with Mathematics at 70%
- Law: a firm offer from 45 points, with the Dean's discretion from 40 to 44
- Pharmacy: a firm offer from 45 points, with level 6 in Mathematics, Life Sciences and Physical Sciences for a provisional offer
- Education: a firm offer from 44 points, with the Dean's discretion from 39 to 43
Extended studies
If your points fall below the Dean's discretion band, you may still be considered for an extended studies programme in some faculties. For example, Commerce and Humanities consider applicants from about 34 to 37 points for their extended routes, which add a year of support.
Basic requirements
You need a bachelor's pass, with English at level 4 or higher. At least four of your seven subjects must come from Rhodes's recommended list, which includes Accounting, Business Studies, Economics, Geography, History, Information Technology, languages, Life Sciences, Mathematics and Physical Sciences, each at level 4 or higher.
Meeting the minimum
Rhodes stresses that the minimum requirements do not guarantee acceptance. If you fall short of the points, a positive report from your school principal and a detailed personal section on your form can help the Dean decide. So complete every part of the form carefully.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Rhodes calculate points?
Each percentage is divided by 10, so 78% earns 7.8 points. Rhodes adds six subjects and excludes Life Orientation.
What points get a firm offer at Rhodes?
Most faculties make a firm offer from 45 points, and Education from 44.
Does Rhodes count Mathematics Paper 3?
No, but the result is recorded for the Dean to note.