Rhodes University (RU) Late Applications Link 2026

Rhodes University (RU) is a public research university located in Makhanda, Eastern Cape, South Africa. 

It is known for its strong programmes in areas such as Commerce, Law, Humanities, Science, Education, and Pharmacy. 

Many students plan to start their studies in the 2026 academic year. 

Some applicants miss the official deadline and look for a late application link or a way to apply after the closing date. 

What are the official Rhodes University application dates for 2026?

Rhodes University’s online application period for the 2026 intake opened on 1 April 2025.

Prospective students, including undergraduates and postgraduates, must complete their applications online by the closing date of 30 September 2025.

The closing date is strictly enforced for most programmes, so applications received after 30 September 2025 may not be considered under normal admissions rules.

Does Rhodes University accept late applications for 2026?

Official Rhodes University information states that late applications are generally not accepted once the standard deadline has passed. 

Specifically, the university’s admissions guidance notes that late applications cannot be considered and that the closing date will be strictly enforced for all applicants.

It is also understood from official admissions advice that the university does not provide a separate public late applications link for the 2026 academic year. 

Instead, applicants must submit their full application before the deadline to be considered.

Some unofficial sources claim the registrar may have discretion to consider very limited late submissions from South African applicants, but this is not guaranteed and not published by Rhodes University. 

Relying on official deadlines is the safest approach.

Where is the official Rhodes University application link?

All applications to Rhodes University must be submitted through the university’s official online application system. 

There is no separate late applications portal for 2026. 

https://ross.ru.ac.za/ is the official online system for submitting and tracking applications to Rhodes University.

To begin your application:

1. Visit www.ru.ac.za the official Rhodes University website.
2. Go to the Apply / Online Applications section.
3. Register an online profile with a valid email and your ID/passport number.
4. Complete and submit all required information before 30 September 2025.

How to apply online to Rhodes University for 2026

To apply for admission at Rhodes University:

1. Go to the Rhodes University website: https://www.ru.ac.za.
2. Click Apply or Online Applications to reach the ROSS portal.
3. Create a profile using your email and ID/passport number.
4. Complete the application form with your personal, academic, and programme details.
5. Upload certified copies of your ID, academic results, and any other required documents.
6. Pay the non-refundable application fee (R100) and upload proof of payment.
7. Submit before 30 September 2025 to avoid missing the closing deadline.

Rhodes may also require additional information for some competitive programmes, such as portfolio submissions or interviews, so check your selected faculty’s requirements.

What if I missed the deadline?

If the application deadline of 30 September 2025 has passed:

1. Applications will not be processed through the official portal after the deadline unless the Registrar’s Office makes a specific exception, which is rare and not standard practice for new applicants.
2. You should contact the Registrar’s Office immediately to enquire whether any exceptional late opportunities might exist for your situation.
3. Consider applying to other universities that maintain late application windows in early 2026 if your Rhodes application is no longer possible.
4. Prepare to apply early for the next cycle (2027) when applications typically open on or around 1 April 2026.

How do I track my Rhodes University application status?

After submitting your application via the ROSS portal:

• You can log in to ROSS using your email and password to view your application status and any updates.
• Rhodes University also typically sends email notifications about offer letters and next steps.

Official Rhodes University contact information

Rhodes University – Admissions Contacts:

• Application Portal: https://ross.ru.ac.za/
• General Registrar Email: registrar@ru.ac.za
• Main Contact Telephone: +27 (0)46 603 8111
• General Enquiries Email: communication@ru.ac.za
• Postal Address:
   Rhodes University
   PO Box 94
   Makhanda
   6140
   South Africa
• Official Website: https://www.ru.ac.za/

These contacts are the official ways to ask about admissions, deadlines, application status, or any special circumstances regarding your application.

FAQs