Rhodes University Online Application 2027: Dates & Fees

Are you planning to study at Rhodes University in South Africa? The Rhodes University online application for 2027 opened on 1 April 2026 and closed on 30 September 2026 for the main undergraduate application period. If you missed the deadline, contact the university directly to ask whether late applications are being considered for your chosen qualification.

Through the official Rhodes Online Student System (ROSS), applicants can submit their details, select a qualification, upload supporting information and pay the application fee. The standard application fee is R100, according to the university’s online admissions portal.

Key Dates for Rhodes University Online Applications 2027

Opening Date: 1 April 2026
Closing Date: 30 September 2026

These dates apply to the main application period for the 2027 academic year. The closing date has passed as of 28 October 2026. Check the official Rhodes University application portal for current application options and late-application guidance.

Why Choose Rhodes University?

Located in Makhanda, South Africa, Rhodes University is known for its strong academic culture, research opportunities and close-knit campus community. Its relatively small size allows students to engage with lecturers and access academic support while developing critical thinking and independent research skills.

Here are some reasons students consider Rhodes University for their higher education:

Strong academic reputation: Rhodes offers programmes across several fields, including journalism, science, law, education and business.
A close-knit student community: The university’s residence system helps students build friendships, participate in campus activities and connect with fellow students.
A focused learning environment: Makhanda provides a university-town setting where students can concentrate on their studies and take part in campus life.
Student support and lecturer engagement: Students can access academic guidance and opportunities to engage with lecturers throughout their studies.
Research and postgraduate opportunities: Rhodes has an established research culture that supports students interested in further study and academic development.

When considering Rhodes University, review the admission requirements, programme options, residence arrangements and available student support services before submitting your application. These details can help you decide whether the university suits your academic goals and personal needs.

How to Apply at Rhodes University Online

Students who want to study at Rhodes University must follow the university’s official admissions process and meet the entry requirements for their chosen qualification. The Rhodes University online application process involves selecting a programme, providing personal and academic information, uploading the required documents and submitting the application through the university’s admissions system.

The main application period for the 2027 academic year opened on 1 April 2026 and closed on 30 September 2026. As of 28 October 2026, this deadline has passed, so contact Rhodes University to confirm whether late applications are being accepted for your intended programme.

Step 1: Access the Rhodes University Application Portal

Application Portal

Visit the Rhodes University admissions website and open the online application system. Register as a new applicant or log in if you already have an account.

Step 2: Choose Your Study Programme

Selecting a degree programme and faculty on the Rhodes University online application portal.

Select your preferred qualification and faculty. Check the admission requirements, subject prerequisites and academic points needed for your chosen programme before proceeding.

Step 3: Complete the Application Form

Completing the Rhodes University online application form with personal details and academic information.

Enter your personal details, contact information, educational background and examination results. Make sure all information is accurate to avoid delays in processing your application.

Step 4: Upload Documents and Pay the Application Fee

Uploading identification documents, matric results and academic transcripts for a Rhodes University application.

Upload the required documents, which may include your ID or passport, matric results or certificate, and academic transcripts for previous university studies. Pay the applicable R100 application fee and keep your proof of payment.

Step 5: Submit Your Application and Check Your Status

Submitting a Rhodes University online application and checking admission status through the applicant portal.

Review your information and documents carefully before submitting the form. The main application deadline for the 2027 academic year was 30 September 2026. Since this date has passed, contact Rhodes University to ask whether late applications are being considered for your chosen programme. After submission, log in to the application portal to check your admission status.

After You Apply: What Happens Next?

Once you have submitted your Rhodes University application, the next step is to monitor your admission status and prepare for the possibility of receiving an offer. Depending on your academic results and whether you meet the programme requirements, the university may issue a conditional or final offer.

Here is what to do after applying:

Accept your offer: If you receive an admission offer, follow the instructions and accept it before the stated deadline.
Complete registration: Once eligible, complete the university’s registration process and submit any outstanding information.
Arrange student accommodation: If you need university residence accommodation, check the application process, availability and relevant deadlines.
Prepare for orientation: Review the information provided by the university about orientation, registration dates and the start of the academic year.
Meet all admission conditions: If your offer depends on your final Matric results or other requirements, make sure you meet the conditions by the specified deadline. Failure to do so may result in the offer being withdrawn.

Helpful tip: Check your application status and university communications regularly. If you do not meet the requirements for your first-choice programme, contact the admissions office to ask whether alternative study options are available.

Rhodes University Application Fees and Tuition Fees

The cost of studying at Rhodes University depends on your qualification, accommodation choice and whether you are a South African or international student. Applicants should budget for the application fee, tuition fees, residence costs, books and other personal expenses.

Rhodes University Fees for 2026

The following figures are based on the university’s published 2026 fee information. The 2027 fee schedule should be checked separately when officially available. Rhodes University+1

Fee type	Amount
Application fee	R100
Tuition acceptance fee	R800
Residence acceptance fee	R1,000
Undergraduate tuition fees	Vary by qualification
Residence fees	Depend on accommodation

The application fee is paid when submitting your application. The tuition acceptance fee and residence acceptance fee are separate charges that apply when accepting an offer and arranging accommodation, where relevant. Acceptance fees are non-refundable according to the published fee booklet.

Tips for a Successful Rhodes University Application

A well-prepared application can help you avoid common mistakes and delays. Keep these tips in mind when applying to Rhodes University:

Apply early: Start gathering your documents well before the application deadline so you have enough time to complete each step.
Check your details: Review your personal information, academic results and programme choices before submitting your application.
Upload readable documents: Ensure all required files are clear, complete and in the correct format.
Monitor your application status: Log in to the ROSS portal regularly to check for admission updates and any outstanding requirements.
Contact admissions when needed: If you experience problems with your application or are unsure about an admission requirement, contact the Rhodes University Admissions Office for assistance.

Remember: The main application deadline for the 2027 academic year was 30 September 2026. If you have not yet applied, contact the university to confirm whether late applications are being considered for your chosen programme.

Rhodes University APS Score Requirements

Rhodes University, located in Makhanda (formerly Grahamstown), uses academic results and programme-specific admission criteria to assess prospective students. Your Admission Point Score (APS) can help you understand whether you may qualify for a particular degree, but meeting a minimum score does not guarantee admission.

The APS requirements and subject marks vary by qualification. Before applying, check the current entry requirements for your chosen programme, including English, Mathematics and relevant science subjects where applicable.

Estimated APS Requirements by Programme

The table below reflects the programme estimates in your draft. However, these figures should not be treated as confirmed Rhodes University requirements for 2027. The university’s published entry requirements use faculty-specific criteria, and several figures in the original table differ from its current guidance.

Programme	Key admission requirements to check
BPharm (Pharmacy)	Mathematics, Life Sciences and Physical Sciences
LLB (Law)	English and Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy
BCom Accounting	English and Mathematics
BSc (Sciences)	English, Mathematics and relevant science subjects
BA (Humanities / Journalism)	English language requirements
BCom General	English and Mathematics
BEd (Education)	English and the relevant faculty requirements

How Does Rhodes University Calculate APS?

Rhodes University calculates the APS using six subjects, including English and any subjects required for the selected programme. Life Orientation is excluded from the points calculation, although applicants must achieve at least Level 4 (50–59%) in the subject. Results below 40% do not contribute points.

Applicants should also remember that meeting the minimum APS and subject requirements does not guarantee admission. Selection depends on the qualification, available places and the university’s admission decisions. Check the latest requirements for your chosen programme before applying.

FAQs

The main application period for the 2027 academic year closed on 30 September 2026. Late applications may be considered in some circumstances, but admission is not guaranteed. Contact the university to confirm whether your preferred programme is still accepting applications. International applicants should note that Rhodes University does not consider late applications from foreign students.

The 2026 academic year has already started, so prospective students should check which intake they intend to apply for. The general application process involves these steps:

Register an account on the Rhodes University Online Student System (ROSS).
Choose your preferred qualification.
Complete your personal and academic information.
Upload the required supporting documents.
Pay the R100 application fee and submit your application.

Always check the applicable application dates and programme requirements before applying.

No. Rhodes University charges a non-refundable application fee of R100. The fee is payable after completing the application form, and your application must meet the university’s submission requirements. This charge is separate from tuition fees, residence costs and any acceptance deposits.

Rhodes University offers qualifications in several academic fields, including Humanities, Commerce, Science, Law, Education, Pharmacy and Journalism. Available programmes include degrees such as BA, BCom, BSc, BEd, LLB and BPharm, subject to admission requirements.

Before selecting a course, consider your matric results, required subjects and career goals. Rhodes University does not offer every degree available at other South African universities; for example, its admissions portal states that it does not offer Engineering, Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science, Architecture or Actuarial Science.

Rhodes University fees depend on the qualification, year of study and accommodation arrangements. The university’s published 2026 fee booklet lists annual tuition fees of approximately:

BA: R63,519
BCom: R69,494
BEd: R63,438
BSc: R66,082
BPharm, first year: R68,491

These are examples of 2026 tuition fees, not total study costs. Residence, books, meals where applicable and other charges may increase the overall amount. Check the latest fee schedule for the year you plan to enrol.

The main undergraduate application period for 2027 is closed. Applications opened on 1 April 2026 and the general closing date was 30 September 2026. Applicants who missed the deadline should contact the university to ask about any remaining options. Do not assume that a visible online application form means your chosen programme is still accepting applications.

Rhodes University states that late applications may be considered, but applicants should not rely on this as an extension of the normal deadline. Whether a late application can be considered depends on the circumstances and the programme. International applicants cannot submit late applications, as the university strictly enforces their closing date. Contact admissions for confirmation before preparing a late application.

If you intend to begin university in 2027, it is best to start researching programmes and admission requirements well before applications open. For Rhodes University, the main 2027 application period began on 1 April 2026, with a closing date of 30 September 2026.

A useful preparation checklist is:

Before applications open: Research qualifications and check entry requirements.
When applications open: Register and complete your application as early as possible.
Before the deadline: Upload all required documents and pay the application fee.
After submission: Monitor your admission status and respond to university requests.

Since the main 2027 deadline has passed, prospective applicants should ask Rhodes University about late applications or prepare for the next available intake.

For more South African university application guides, student portal instructions and education updates, visit Info Hub South Africa

Conclusion

The main Rhodes University online application for the 2027 academic year opened on 1 April 2026 and closed on 30 September 2026. Since the closing date has passed, prospective students who have not yet applied should contact the university to ask whether late applications are still being considered for their preferred programme.

Rhodes University offers opportunities for students pursuing different academic and career goals. Before applying, make sure you understand the admission requirements, application fee, supporting documents and programme-specific conditions.

At Info Hub South Africa, we aim to help students find useful information about university applications, student portals and education opportunities across the country. You can explore more guides on Info Hub South Africa to help you navigate the application process and prepare for your next academic step.

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