The University of Alberta considers a variety of factors when making admissions decisions, including academic grades, extracurricular activities, and personal statements. However, academic grades are the most important factor, and the specific courses and grades they consider will vary depending on the program you are applying to.
For Canadian applicants, the University of Alberta will look at your Grade 11 and 12 transcripts. They will typically consider your top 6 Grade 12 courses, as well as your Grade 11 courses in English, mathematics, science (two sciences), and social studies. The minimum admission average for the University of Alberta is 80%, but they may consider applications with lower averages if the applicant has a strong overall academic record.
For international applicants, the University of Alberta will consider your high school transcripts from your home country. They will typically consider your final marks from your last two years of high school. The minimum admission average for international applicants varies depending on the program you are applying to, but it is typically around 80%.
In addition to academic grades, the University of Alberta may also consider other factors, such as:
- Extracurricular activities: The University of Alberta values applicants who are involved in extracurricular activities. These activities can demonstrate your leadership skills, teamwork abilities, and commitment to community involvement.
- Personal statements: The University of Alberta requires you to submit a personal statement with your application. This statement is an opportunity to tell the admissions committee about your academic interests, extracurricular activities, and personal goals.
- Recommendations: The University of Alberta may also request letters of recommendation from your teachers or guidance counselors. These letters can provide additional information about your academic abilities and personal qualities.
The University of Alberta is a highly selective university, and admission is competitive. However, if you have strong academic grades, a solid extracurricular record, and a compelling personal statement, you will have a good chance of being admitted.
Here is a table that summarizes the minimum admission averages for Canadian and international applicants in the most popular undergraduate programs at the University of Alberta:
| Program | Canadian Minimum Admission Average | International Minimum Admission Average |
|---|---|---|
| Arts | 80% | 85% |
| Business | 80% | 90% |
| Engineering | 85% | 95% |
| Science | 80% | 85% |
| Nursing | 85% | 90% |
Overview of Public Universities in South Africa
Here's an overview of some public universities in South Africa, including general admissions requirements and estimated application periods. Keep in mind, specific program requirements and dates can vary significantly, so it's important to check each university's official website for the most current information.
University of Pretoria
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with minimum scores in specific subjects related to the chosen program; for international students, equivalent qualifications.
- Application Period: Usually opens in March and closes at the end of July for most programs.
University of Cape Town
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with pass levels required for degree study; subject-specific requirements depending on the program.
- Application Period: Application opens in April and closes at the end of July.
Stellenbosch University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required marks; some programs have additional testing.
- Application Period: Opens in March and typically closes at the end of June.
University of the Witwatersrand
- Admissions Requirements: Matriculation certificate with university exemption; required scores vary by faculty.
- Application Period: Begins in March and ends on the 30th of September.
University of Johannesburg
- Admissions Requirements: Matric exemption with a minimum APS score; specific subject requirements based on the faculty.
- Application Period: Opens in April and generally closes by the 30th of September.
University of the Free State
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific marks for the program applied to; additional requirements for certain courses.
- Application Period: Typically opens in April and closes at the end of August.
University of Venda
- Admissions Requirements: Completion of the National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for diploma or degree studies; specific APS scores needed.
- Application Period: Usually from May to September.
University of Fort Hare
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; certain programs may have specific requirements.
- Application Period: Opens around May and closes at the end of September.
University of the Western Cape
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific performance levels; additional requirements for certain programs.
- Application Period: Generally from May to September.
North-West University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; program-specific requirements may apply.
- Application Period: Opens in March and usually closes by the end of August.
Rhodes University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate or equivalent; minimum academic performance in certain subjects.
- Application Period: Applications open in April and close at the end of September.
Nelson Mandela University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; portfolio or additional tests for some faculties.
- Application Period: Opens in April, with a deadline at the end of August for most programs.
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores; additional requirements for certain courses.
- Application Period: Opens in May and typically closes by the end of September.
University of Limpopo
- Admissions Requirements: Senior Certificate with endorsement for diploma or degree courses; specific APS scores for different programs.
- Application Period: From April to September.
University of Zululand
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for bachelor’s degree studies; specific score requirements for various programs.
- Application Period: Usually between April and November.
Central University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores for the chosen field of study; additional criteria for certain programs.
- Application Period: Application period generally starts in May and ends in October.
Vaal University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with a pass that qualifies for admission to bachelor’s degree, diploma, or higher certificate programs.
- Application Period: Typically from May to September.
Walter Sisulu University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; additional criteria for certain faculties.
- Application Period: From April to September.
This list provides a starting point for understanding the admissions landscape across South Africa's diverse higher education institutions. Given the variability in programs and requirements, it's crucial to consult each university's website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.