How to Calculate your APS at Rhodes University (RU)

by Staff Reporter

If you dream of studying at Rhodes University (RU) in South Africa, knowing the Admission Point Score (APS) is key. This guide will help you figure out your APS. It ensures you meet the entry standards for this top university.

Table of Contents

rhodes university

What is the APS and Why It Matters

The Admission Point Score (APS) is key for those wanting to start an undergraduate degree at Rhodes University (RU). It looks at how well students did in their National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams. This makes it easier for the university to compare and choose the best candidates.

APS gives points from 1 to 8 for each NSC subject, with better grades getting more points. By adding up the points from an applicant’s best six subjects (excluding Life Orientation), the university gets a total APS. This score shows how well a student did academically.

Minimum Requirements for Admission to Rhodes University

To get into an undergraduate degree at Rhodes University, you need a National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a Bachelor’s Pass. You also need to have scored at least 4 (50%) in English, whether it’s your Home Language or First Additional Language. Plus, you must have an Admission Point Score (APS) of 35 points or more.

If your APS is between 30-34, you might still get in. But you’ll need to show the university how hard you’ve worked. This rule helps the university find and support students who have faced big challenges.

Calculating Your APS

To find your Admission Point Score (APS) at Rhodes University, just follow these easy steps:

  1. Choose your six best subjects (excluding Life Orientation) from your National Senior Certificate (NSC) exam.
  2. Give each subject points based on your percentage, using the APS point scale.
  3. Add up the points from your six subjects to find your total APS.
  4. Make sure you got at least a 4 (50%) in English and Life Orientation.

Example APS Calculation

Here’s an example to show how to calculate your APS:

SubjectPercentage AchievedAPS Points
English Home Language78%7.8 points
isiXhosa or Afrikaans Additional Language73%7.3 points
Mathematics69%6.9 points
Life Science70%7.0 points
Dramatic Arts89%8.9 points
Accounting73%7.3 points
Life Orientation90%0 points
Total APS 45.2 points

In this example, the student scored an impressive 45.2 points. This is well above the minimum needed to get into Rhodes University.

students attending a lecture at rhodes university

Minimum APS for Different Degree Programmes

When you apply to Rhodes University (RU), knowing the minimum Admission Point Score (APS) is key. Rhodes University wants an APS of 45 points or more for a guaranteed spot. But, if you have an APS between 35-44, you might still get in, depending on the faculty.

Make sure to check the APS needs for your chosen degree. The requirements can differ between faculties. Here’s a quick look at some common degree programmes at Rhodes University (RU):

  • Bachelor of Arts: APS of 35+
  • Bachelor of Science: APS of 38+ with Mathematics and Science required
  • Bachelor of Commerce: APS of 40+ with Mathematics required
  • Bachelor of Laws (LLB): APS of 40+ with high scores in English
  • Bachelor of Pharmacy: APS of 42+ with Life Sciences and Physical Sciences required

The APS needs can change, so always check the latest on the Rhodes University website. Or, talk to the admissions office for the newest info.

Fund Your Studies at RU with Fundi

Once you’ve worked out your APS and sent in your application to Rhodes University (RU), you may start looking for financial assistance while waiting for a response.

That’s where Fundi steps in. Fundi offers study loans to help cover a variety of educational costs, from tuition fees and textbooks to study devices and more.

Want to know if you’re eligible? Try out our Fundi Loan Calculator and begin your academic journey today.

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