Understanding School Quintile Rankings for University Applications
Many South African universities use school quintile rankings as part of their admissions process. This system helps create a more equitable way to compare student achievements from different socioeconomic backgrounds.
What is a Quintile Ranking?
- Schools in South Africa are divided into five quintiles (groups) based on the relative wealth of the community they serve.
- Quintile 1 schools are in the poorest communities, while quintile 5 schools are in the wealthiest.
- Your school’s quintile ranking can impact things like university admissions and eligibility for certain bursaries.
Understanding the Quintiles
- Quintile 1: Represents the poorest 20% of schools, located in rural areas or informal settlements with limited resources.
- Quintile 2: Covers the second-poorest 20% of schools, with slightly better resources than Quintile 1, but still facing challenges.
- Quintile 3: The middle 20% of schools with a greater variation in resources and infrastructure.
- Quintile 4: The second-wealthiest 20% of schools with generally good resources and facilities.
- Quintile 5: The wealthiest 20% of schools, are typically well-resourced with excellent facilities and highly qualified teachers.
How Do I Find My School’s Quintile Ranking?
Here are ways to find out your school’s ranking:
- Consult the National Department of Education: They might have lists or resources available online.
- Check University Websites: Some universities, like Nelson Mandela University, may have searchable lists of schools and their quintile rankings.
- Contact Your School Directly: Your school administration should be able to provide this information.
Why Does it Matter?
Universities use quintile rankings to:
- Offer Adjustment Factors or Bonuses: Schools in lower quintiles might receive points to boost their application scores.
- Determine Bursary Eligibility: Some financial aid programs have quintile-specific requirements.
