This guide provides straightforward insights for your 2027 studies at Rhodes University, based on official 2026/2027 admission structures. Known for its small-town "Res" culture and high research output, Rhodes has specific rules you must follow during your application.
Rhodes University (RU) 2027 Application
The Rhodes University online application process is highly focused on academic excellence and a preference for students who want to live on campus in Makhanda.
- Fixed Application Fee: Unlike free applications at other institutions, Rhodes requires a non-refundable fee of R100.
- The Admission Point Score (APS): Rhodes calculates your APS using your six best subjects, excluding Life Orientation. They look for a minimum APS of 40 points for most degrees, though some Humanities courses may accept a slightly lower score.
- Mathematics vs. Maths Literacy: For Science, Pharmacy, and Commerce, Mathematics is mandatory. For Law and Humanities, Mathematical Literacy is accepted, but you usually need a higher level (Level 6 or 7) to be competitive.
- The Pharmacy Factor: Rhodes is world-renowned for its Faculty of Pharmacy. This is a high-selection programme with an earlier closing date and very strict requirements for Mathematics and Physical Sciences.
- Automatic Residence Application: At Rhodes, the "Res" experience is central. Your application for a place in a university residence is processed as part of your academic application.
Important Rhodes University (RU) 2027 Application Dates
- 1 March 2026: Applications officially open.
- 30 September 2026: General closing date for all undergraduate applications and financial aid.
- Late Applications: Rhodes rarely accepts late applications due to limited space in both the university and the small town.
2027 Admission Comparison: Rhodes vs Other Universities
Comparing Rhodes to the UCT online application or the WITS online application steps and dates shows that Rhodes offers a more intimate, small-university feel with similar academic rigour.
| Feature | Rhodes University (RU) | Univ. of Cape Town (UCT) | WITS University |
| Application Fee | R100 | R100 (SADC) | R100 (SA) |
| NBTs Required | Selective/Not Mandatory | Yes (Mandatory) | Only Health Sciences |
| Closing Date | 30 September 2026 | 31 July 2026 | 30 Sept 2026* |
| LO Points | Excluded | Excluded | Included (Max 3) |
| Max Choices | 2 Programmes | 2 Programmes | 3 Programmes |
*Note: WITS Health Sciences and select other degrees close earlier on 30 June 2026.
By comparing these, you can see that Rhodes has a later deadline than the Stellenbosch University (SU) online application steps and dates, giving you more time to prepare. However, if you want a free application, you might look at the UJ online application steps and dates or the NWU online application steps and dates. Always verify the specific 2027 Courses Requirements for your degree before paying the fee.