What is the Xcel programme?
The Xcel program is a bridging program that prepares students for engineering studies.
The program has two main parts:
Mathematics and Physical Science (Basic Education)
- The Xcel programme offers small classes consisting of 25 places, so the selection process is quite competitive.
- Students can improve their SBA marks, which are part of a portfolio that counts toward their final matric exam results.
- Students repeat the Grade 11 and 12 curricula and sometimes Grade 10 material too. They have 10 hours each of Mathematics and Physical Science classes weekly, plus 2 hours of tutorials per subject. Attendance is mandatory.
- The students retake the NSC exams in Mathematics and Physical Science under the Department of Basic Education’s supervision at Ferdinand Postma High School. All classes take place on the Ferdinand Postma campus.
University Subjects (Higher Education)
- ALDE111 and ALDE121 (Academic Literacy Development)
The Xcel students register for a single university subject (ALDE 111 and 121 – language reading, and writing skills) and are thus NWU students. They must learn to take responsibility for mastering their subjects on their own and integrate into larger classes. They must pass ALDE111 in the first semester to continue with ALDE121 in the second semester. Therefore, students who fail ALDE111 will have to discontinue the Xcel program before the start of the second semester. - CAD (Computer-Aided Design) and Programming
Students also take two practical courses to prepare for formal engineering studies. They 3D-print their designs and present them to a panel of engineers in an oral exam. This assessment helps them prepare for their final-year engineering project,which is judged nationally by an engineering panel.
During the Xcel year, students develop good study habits, effective study methods and time management skills. Individual academic and psychological support is available where needed.
We do not recommend university hostel accommodation. The hostel activities usually conflict with the compulsory classes in the Xcel program. Accommodation is available on the premises of Ferdinand Postma High School. The school offers a selection of apartments as well as a male student house, providing comfortable and convenient accommodation options on the Xcel campus.
Please contact Mariëtte Geldenhuys (ferdiesxcel@gmail.com) on (018) 290 5539 to obtain the application form for the Xcel programme.
The application form and brochure can also be viewed and downloaded here:
