Rhodes University Online Application 2027 is officially open for students who wish to study at one of South Africa’s top-ranked academic institutions. Located in Makhanda (formerly Grahamstown) in the Eastern Cape, Rhodes University is renowned for its excellence in journalism, law, commerce, pharmacy, and the humanities. Known for its small class sizes and high academic standards, Rhodes produces graduates who think critically and lead with integrity.
Rhodes University Application Opening and Closing Dates 2027
Timing is everything when applying to Rhodes. The university is highly competitive, and late applications are rarely considered for most programs.
- Opening Date: The Rhodes University online application for 2027 opens on 1 March 2026.
- Closing Date: The standard closing date for most undergraduate programs is 30 September 2026.
Important exceptions for specific faculties:
| Course Type | Closing Date |
|---|---|
| Bachelor of Pharmacy (BPharm) | 31 July 2026 |
| Bachelor of Journalism & Media Studies | 31 August 2026 |
| Bachelor of Law (LLB) | 30 September 2026 |
| All other degrees (Commerce, Science, Humanities) | 30 September 2026 |
Rhodes strongly encourages applicants to apply before 31 August 2026 to allow time for document verification and residence applications.
Late applications: Rhodes University does NOT accept late applications for undergraduate programs. The system closes firmly on 30 September 2026. No exceptions.
Apply by June 2026 if you want to secure on-campus accommodation. Rhodes residence spaces are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
Read also: Nelson Mandela University Online Application 2027: For undergraduate & postgraduate
How to Apply at Rhodes University for 2027 Academic Year
Applying to Rhodes is done entirely online. There is a non-refundable application fee of R100 for South African students. Follow these simple steps:
Prepare your documents (scan clearly in PDF format)
- Your final Grade 11 results OR your latest Grade 12 (Matric) report.
- A certified copy of your South African ID document (certified within the last 3 months).
- Your most recent academic transcript (if you are a transfer student).
Go to the official Rhodes University application portal
- Visit: https://ross.ru.ac.za/
Register for a student number
- Click on “New Admission (not yet enrolled at Rhodes)”.
Complete the online application form
- Select your first and second choice of study.
- Upload all your documents (ensure file sizes are under 5MB each).
Submit and track your application status
- Click “Submit Application.” You will receive a confirmation email within 24 hours.
Accept your offer and apply for residence
- If you receive a provisional acceptance letter (between October and December 2026), accept the offer online immediately.
- Apply for residence accommodation separately – spaces fill up quickly.
Applying to Rhodes University for 2027 requires planning and punctuality. Remember: Rhodes University Online Application 2027 opens on 1 March 2026 and closes firmly on 30 September 2026. The application fee is R100 for South African students, and residence spaces are limited.
Do not wait until the last week of September. Gather your Grade 11 or 12 results and your ID today, visit the official Rhodes website, and apply. A world-class education in Makhanda is waiting for you. Good luck, South Africa!
