Yes, in Canada, you typically need to have completed Math 12 or its equivalent to be admitted into Simon Fraser University (SFU). Math 12 is a prerequisite for many SFU courses, including those in the Faculty of Science, the Faculty of Engineering Science, and the Beedie School of Business.
Here are the specific Math 12 requirements for admission into SFU:
- BC high school students: You must have a minimum of 60% in Math 12 or its equivalent.
- Out-of-province high school students: You must have a minimum of a C+ in Math 12 or its equivalent.
- International students: You must have a minimum of a B in Math 12 or its equivalent.
If you do not have the required Math 12 prerequisite, you may be able to take a placement test to determine your math level. You may also be able to take a preparatory math course to upgrade your skills.
Academic Programs
Simon Fraser University offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in the arts, sciences, business, and technology. Some of the most popular programs at SFU include:
- Arts: Communication, Criminology, English, History, Philosophy, Political Science, Psychology, Sociology
- Sciences: Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Earth Sciences, Mathematics, Physics, Statistics
- Business: Accounting, Business Administration, Economics, Finance, Management
- Technology: Engineering, Information Systems, Mechatronics
Research
Simon Fraser University is a leading research university. The university has over 1,000 faculty members and researchers who are engaged in a wide range of research projects. SFU is home to a number of research centers and institutes, including:
- Surrey Center for Climate Change
- Canadian Institute for Advanced Research
- Vancouver Institute for Social Sciences
- Fraser Institute
- SFU Centre for Dialogue
Student Life
Simon Fraser University has a vibrant student life. The university has over 200 student clubs and organizations, including athletic teams, cultural groups, and academic societies. SFU also has a number of student services, including a health and wellness center, a counseling center, and a career center.
Admission
Admission requirements at Simon Fraser University vary depending on the program to which you are applying. However, all applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent. International students must also meet English language proficiency requirements.
Tuition and Financial Aid
Tuition fees at Simon Fraser University vary depending on the program to which you are enrolled. However, SFU is one of the most affordable universities in Canada for international students.
SFU offers a variety of financial aid options to students, including scholarships, bursaries, and loans. Students can apply for financial aid through the SFU Student Financial Aid and Scholarships Office.
Simon Fraser University is a highly ranked and affordable public research university in British Columbia, Canada. SFU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in the arts, sciences, business, and technology. The university also has a vibrant student life and a number of research centers and institutes.
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Complete Guide to NSFAS Online Loan Application for South African Students (2025)
If you are a South African student looking to pursue higher education but are facing financial difficulties, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is one of the most accessible funding options available. NSFAS provides financial aid in the form of bursaries and loans to qualifying students at public universities and TVET colleges in South Africa.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the NSFAS loan application process, from eligibility requirements to application steps and frequently asked questions.
📌 What is NSFAS?
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government-funded financial aid scheme aimed at helping students from low- and middle-income households to access tertiary education without the burden of upfront fees.
NSFAS offers both bursaries and income-contingent loans:
- Bursaries: For eligible students who meet academic and household income criteria (especially for TVET and university students).
- Loans: For students who do not meet all bursary criteria or who are pursuing postgraduate qualifications not funded under bursary schemes.
✅ Who Qualifies for an NSFAS Loan?
To qualify for an NSFAS loan (especially for postgraduate students or programs not funded under the bursary system), you must:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Be financially needy, with a household income of less than R350,000 per year.
- Have a valid South African ID.
- Be enrolled or accepted to study at a public university or TVET college.
- Not be funded through another bursary program that covers all expenses.
- Maintain satisfactory academic progress (returning students).
📚 Courses Funded by NSFAS
NSFAS primarily funds undergraduate qualifications, but certain postgraduate programs (e.g., PGCE, postgraduate diplomas in education, and professional courses like LLB) may be considered under the NSFAS loan scheme, not bursaries.
If you’re studying:
- Undergraduate degree or diploma: You are likely eligible for a full NSFAS bursary.
- Postgraduate study: You may qualify for a loan, depending on the course and funding availability.
📄 Required Documents for NSFAS Application
When applying, make sure you have the following documents scanned and ready:
- Certified copy of your South African ID or Smart Card.
- Parent(s) or guardian(s) ID documents.
- Proof of income (latest payslips, UIF, or affidavit if unemployed).
- Consent Form signed by your parent(s)/guardian(s) to allow NSFAS to verify income.
- Proof of registration or acceptance at a public institution.
- Academic transcripts (for continuing or postgraduate students).
🖥️ How to Apply for an NSFAS Loan Online
Step-by-Step NSFAS Online Application Process (2025)
-
Visit the NSFAS Website
Go to: https://www.nsfas.org.za
-
Create an Account
- Click on “MyNSFAS” and register your profile.
- You’ll need a valid email address and South African cellphone number.
- Choose a strong password and verify your account via email or SMS.
-
Login and Start the Application
- After registration, log in to your MyNSFAS account.
- Click on “Apply” to begin a new application.
-
Fill in Your Personal Details
- Input your ID number, name, surname, and other details exactly as they appear on your ID.
- Provide household income information and living arrangements.
-
Upload Required Documents
- Upload all supporting documents in PDF or JPEG format.
- Each document must be clear and under the size limit specified.
-
Submit Your Application
- Review your application for accuracy.
- Click “Submit” and wait for a confirmation message.
-
Track Your Application
- Log in regularly to check your application status.
- You will be notified via SMS and email at each stage of the process.
🗓️ Important NSFAS Dates (2025)
- Application Opening Date: September 1, 2025
- Application Deadline: January 31, 2026
- Appeals Period: February 2026 (if rejected)
- Disbursement: After registration and approval
Note: Dates are subject to change; always confirm on the official NSFAS website.
💸 What Does the NSFAS Loan Cover?
NSFAS funding typically includes:
- Tuition fees
- Registration fees
- Accommodation (if living away from home)
- Meals and transport
- Learning materials (e.g., textbooks)
For loans, repayment is only required once you start working and earn above a threshold (around R30,000 annually, but subject to change).
🔄 NSFAS Loan Repayment
Repayments are:
- Income-contingent – you only repay when you can afford to.
- Administered by DHET (Department of Higher Education and Training).
- Interest-bearing, but interest rates are low and favorable.
You can also apply for a partial loan conversion to a bursary if you perform well academically.
🔁 How to Appeal a Rejected NSFAS Application
If your application is rejected, you may submit an appeal via your MyNSFAS portal:
- Log into your MyNSFAS account.
- Click on “Track Funding Progress”.
- If rejected, click on “Submit Appeal”.
- Upload any missing or corrected documents.
- Provide a clear explanation or motivation.
📱 NSFAS Contact Information
- Website: https://www.nsfas.org.za
- Email: info@nsfas.org.za
- Toll-Free Number: 08000 67327 (Monday–Friday, 8 AM–5 PM)
- Twitter: @myNSFAS
- Facebook: NSFAS
📝 Final Tips Before Applying
- Apply early to avoid system overload near the deadline.
- Use your own email and cellphone number (do not use someone else’s).
- Double-check that all your documents are certified and legible.
- Keep a copy of your submission confirmation for reference.
By following this guide, you can confidently apply for NSFAS funding and move one step closer to achieving your academic and career dreams—without the burden of immediate financial pressure.