Rhodes NBT Requirements 2027: Admission Guidelines

Rhodes University is a respected higher education institution located in Makhanda, Eastern Cape, South Africa. 

It offers a wide range of undergraduate degrees across faculties such as Commerce, Law, Humanities, Science, Education, and Pharmacy. 

Prospective students must meet specific admission requirements before they can be offered a place at Rhodes University, and many applicants want to know whether they must write the National Benchmark Tests (NBTs) to gain entry. 

Does Rhodes University Require NBTs for 2027 Admission?

No. For the 2027 academic year, writing the NBTs is not a formal mandatory requirement for general admission to Rhodes University. 

The primary basis for admission remains the National Senior Certificate (NSC) with a Bachelor’s pass and a sufficient Admission Point Score (APS) according to faculty guidelines.

NBTs are recommended for all first-time South African university applicants, but they are not compulsory for automatic admission if you meet the APS and faculty subject requirements. 

However, NBT results may be considered by the Dean when an applicant does not meet automatic admission criteria.

List of Faculties with Possible NBT Consideration

While Rhodes does not officially require NBTs for all applicants, there are specific scenarios where NBT results may be used by faculties or the Dean in making admission decisions, especially if other criteria are not fully met. 

These include:

1. All Faculties if an applicant’s APS falls below the automatic offer threshold. NBT results may be used as an additional indicator of academic readiness.
2. Science Programs where the Mathematics Test (MAT) may be recommended for students seeking entry.
3. Commerce and Pharmacy applicants are also encouraged to write the Mathematics Test component if relevant to their field.
4. Law does not require NBTs as an official condition, but results can still support an application if APS or subject requirements are borderline.

How APS Scores Compare to NBT Scores at Rhodes

Admission Point Score (APS) is the main criterion Rhodes University uses to assess academic eligibility. 

An APS is calculated from the NSC results across your best six subjects (excluding Life Orientation). 

Each subject mark is converted into points, and the sum determines your APS. 

A 40+ APS generally earns a firm offer, while an APS of 37 to 39 may be considered by the Dean on a case-by-case basis.

By contrast, NBT scores are not part of the APS calculation at Rhodes. 

They are separate test results designed to assess academic literacy, quantitative literacy, and mathematics skills. 

While Rhodes does not use NBT scores as a formal entry requirement, they may be submitted to support an application when a student’s APS or subject results are borderline and could strengthen the case for admission under the Dean’s discretion.

Here is how APS and NBT differ in purpose:

• APS reflects your academic performance in the NSC and meets core faculty and degree requirements.
• NBTs provide additional insight into your academic readiness and may enhance an application when APS falls below the faculty’s threshold or when entry is competitive.

How to Register for the National Benchmark Tests

If you choose to write the NBTs (especially if you are applying to multiple universities that require them), follow these steps:

1. Visit the official NBT website and locate the registration portal.
2. Create an account and fill in your personal details with a valid email address.
3. Choose the test components you need. All applicants should register for the Academic and Quantitative Literacy (AQL) test. If you are pursuing courses involving mathematics, such as Science, Commerce, or Pharmacy, register for the Mathematics (MAT) test as well.
4. Select your test date and location from those available throughout the year at various test centres in South Africa.
5. Pay the registration fee online or as specified by the NBT office.
6. Include the NBT registration number on your university application if you intend to use your results for admission consideration.

NBT results are valid for more than one admission cycle. Therefore, you often only need to write them once if multiple institutions accept your results.

How to Apply to Rhodes University for 2027

Applying to Rhodes University for the 2027 academic year generally follows this process:

1. Online Application: Create a profile on the official Rhodes University ROSS application portal.
2. Submit Academic Details: Provide your NSC subject results and APS once available.
3. Upload Supporting Documents: Certified copy of your ID or passport and any required academic certificates.
4. Check Faculty Requirements: Ensure you meet the specific subject and APS requirements for your chosen programme.
5. Submit Your Application: Complete and submit before the deadline, typically 30 September for most undergraduate programmes.
6. Track Your Application: Use your ROSS login to monitor status updates and offer letters.

Bursaries for Rhodes Applicants

Students planning to study at Rhodes University may apply for several funding options to support their studies:

1. National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) helps eligible South African students with tuition, accommodation, and allowances.
2. Rhodes University Financial Aid Office Bursaries provide institutional financial support based on need and academic merit.
3. Faculty and Departmental Awards may be available in specific fields such as Commerce, Science, or Law.
4. External Scholarships like the Mandela Rhodes Scholarship (postgraduate) offer opportunities for further study beyond undergraduate degrees.

While NBTs are not mandatory for automatic admission, writing them can strengthen your application, especially when APS or subject results are borderline.