Queen’s University in Canada considers a variety of factors when evaluating undergraduate applicants, including high school grades, extracurricular activities, standardized test scores, and personal essays. However, high school grades are still the most important factor in the admission process.
Minimum Grade Requirements
Queen’s University has a minimum grade requirement of 75% for all applicants, regardless of program. However, the competitive average for admission varies depending on the program. For example, the competitive average for the Arts and Science program is in the low 80s, while the competitive average for the Engineering program is in the mid-80s.
Prerequisite Courses
In addition to the minimum grade requirement, Queen’s University also requires applicants to take certain prerequisite courses. These courses are typically in English, math, and science. Applicants must achieve a grade of 75% or higher in all prerequisite courses.
Standardized Test Scores
Queen’s University does not require standardized test scores for admission to all programs. However, some programs may require applicants to submit standardized test scores, such as the SAT or ACT. The specific requirements for standardized test scores vary depending on the program.
Extracurricular Activities
Queen’s University recognizes that extracurricular activities can provide valuable insights into an applicant’s character, leadership potential, and ability to manage their time effectively. As such, applicants are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities that are relevant to their interests and aspirations.
Personal Essays
Personal essays are an important opportunity for applicants to showcase their unique qualities, experiences, and motivations. Applicants are encouraged to write essays that are well-written, engaging, and demonstrate their passion for the program they are applying to.
Overall Assessment
Queen’s University considers all of the above factors, along with the applicant’s overall academic record and extracurricular activities, when making an admission decision. Applicants with a strong academic record, relevant extracurricular activities, and compelling personal essays are more likely to be admitted.
Specific Program Requirements
Please note that the specific requirements for admission to different programs at Queen’s University may vary. For more information on the admission requirements for a particular program, please visit the program’s website or contact the program’s admissions office.
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.