UWC RPL Services

For more information contact the UWC RPL Unit on

021 959 2799/ 3792

The aim of the UWC-RPL unit is:

To implement and facilitate the RPL national policy on a scale that is available to anyone who meets the specific admissions criteria and can demonstrate self-competence, prior learning, knowledge and academic readiness
To provide effective access into UWC through the various RPL routes as stipulated and governed by the rules and regulations of the UWC RPL policy
To validate one's skills and competence and allow applicants to gain experience in a University/higher institution environment. This is done in order to introduce, promote and develop an academic ”University” experience and provide “first time” exposure for potential candidates wanting to gain access into higher education qualifications.

Please note the following:

1. Our operating hours are from 8.30 am- 16:00 pm (Monday-Friday). Applicants requiring letters for leave applications at any stage (Information sessions, PDP workshops and tests) of the RPL programme can contact the RPL office.

2. There will be no extension of deadlines

3. Please ensure that you are applying on behalf of yourself. Make sure that your email address is correct, as the RPL office will be communicating with all RPL applicants via email and group SMS services. Please ensure that you provide us with your own email address and cell phone number.

4. Please ensure that you read the information document thoroughly. The information form is meant to inform, guide and assist you with your UWC-RPL journey. Researching and understanding what your options are is a critical step in your RPL journey. Submitting a completed registration form with ALL your supporting documents are essential in the shortlisting process.

5. Please ensure that all supporting documents/details are provided (Matriculation certificates, or latest school-leaving certificate, subjects, short courses, work experience, highlighting specifically your skills and self-competence as well as the degree of choice that you are interested in)

Are you able to answer the following questions?

Do you have a Matric Certificate or a National Senior Certificate? Which year did you obtain?
If yes, please attach a copy of your certificate and IDENTITY Document to your application form
If you do NOT have a matric certificate / NSC, please state highest standard/grade passed at school and your last year at school
Do you have computer literacy skills?
Are you 23 years or older? Do you have any formal, informal or non-formal learning?
Are you interested in the TAP or Portfolio programme route?
Are you aware of the costs and payment deadline dates for TAP and Portfolio programme?

RPL programme for undergraduate access at UWC

RPL Portfolio Development Programme (PDP)

This PDP is a five month programme offered by the RPL Unit April-August each year. The programme consists of three aspects

1. Induction into University: Induction into University environment. Student expectations and University survival toolkit (Time management and planning skills, study skills, financial skills, journal writing and reflection)

2. Introduction to academic reading and writing: The students attended several academic development workshops focused on building reading, comprehension and writing skills. The students participated in academic debating, written assessments and research projects that where specific to their chosen field of study. Additionally academic support was provided from the UWC Writing centre throughout the PDP

3. Development of skills portfolio: The skills portfolio showcased the students prior skills, learning and knowledge. A motivation statement, extended cv and autobiography learning history is presented.

The Portfolio Development Course begins on the 22 April 2020 and sessions ends on the 25 August 2020. Each PDP candidate will be required to attend compulsory mentoring sessions that commence from 1-29 August 2020, followed by the submission of completed portfolios on the 30 August 2020. The cost for the PDP is R1350.00. This amount MUST BE PAID before the PDP course starts. The deadline for payment is 15 April 2020.

2. Tests for Access and Placement (TAP)

TAP Dates

20 September 2020: UWC Reading and writing proficiency test
October/November 2020: NBT test
18 October 2020: Life sciences challenge exam
1 November 2020: Physical science (Physics-Chemistry) challenge exam

Candidates selecting the TAP route will need to write the following tests and are required to pay an amount of R700. The deadline for payment is 15 April 2020. TAP applicants are required to do their own preparation for the NBT exams. There are plenty of study guides available in local bookshops and other material on the internet to assist you in this regard. The following websites are useful starting points:

The Siyavula website https://www.siyavula.com/read
The National Benchmark Tests website www.nbt.ac.za and www.nbt.ac.za/sites/default/files/NBT_AL_Teachers.pdf
The Purple Pepper Mathematics http://www.purplepeppermaths.co.za/
Grade 12 Math’s lessons http://learn.mindset.co.za/xtra/lessons/grade12/Mathematics
Sign up and learn with school yourself.org https://schoolyourself.org/

RPL Application for UWC admission in academic year 2021 (RPL applications/advising opens 13 January 2020- Closing date for Portfolio programme and TAP applications is 28 February 2020)