Rhodes University has officially released its amended registration and term dates for 2026, following a Senate decision to move all supplementary examinations to a single sitting and to support the reimagining of assessment processes.
All students—postgraduate, returning undergraduates, and first-time entering students—are advised to take careful note of the updated dates below to ensure timely registration and fee compliance.
Why the 2026 Dates Have Been Amended
The 2026 academic calendar has been amended to:
- Consolidate supplementary examinations into one sitting
- Align assessment processes with Senate recommendations
- Improve academic planning and registration efficiency
These changes affect registration timelines and examination periods early in the year.
Key Rhodes University Registration Dates for 2026
University Opening
- Monday, 5 January 2026
University officially opens
Postgraduate Registration
- Monday, 12 January 2026
Postgraduate registration opens
Fee Deadlines
- Friday, 16 January 2026
Initial fee payment deadline for returning students - Friday, 23 January 2026
Initial fee payment deadline for first-year students
Undergraduate Registration (Returning Students)
- Friday, 23 January 2026
Final day for registration for returning undergraduate students
Supplementary Examinations (2025 Academic Year)
- Monday, 19 January – Friday, 30 January 2026
Supplementary examinations (single sitting for all faculties)
Students eligible for supplementary exams must ensure they are available during this full period.
On-Campus Registration for First-Time Entering Students
- Saturday, 31 January – Sunday, 1 February 2026
On-campus registration for first-time entering students
First-year students are required to attend on-campus registration as per university instructions.
Important Notes for Students
- Students must meet registration and fee deadlines to avoid penalties or delays
- Returning students should complete registration before the supplementary exam period ends
- First-year students should prepare all required documents for on-campus registration
- Further faculty-specific communication will be shared via official Rhodes University channels
Plan Ahead for 2026
Early preparation is essential to ensure a smooth start to the 2026 academic year at Rhodes University. Students are encouraged to:
- Monitor official university communications
- Finalise fee payments on time
- Confirm eligibility for supplementary exams
- Attend registration sessions as scheduled