How many Grade 12 courses do you need for SFU?

To be eligible for admission to Simon Fraser University (SFU) in Canada, applicants must complete a minimum of five approved Grade 12 courses, including all required courses. Equivalent AP or IB courses may be used in place of the following courses.

Here is a breakdown of the required courses:

English Studies 12 (min 70%) or equivalent: This course focuses on developing critical thinking, communication, and research skills in the context of literature, film, and other media.

One course from the Quantitative and Analytical Skills category: This category includes courses such as Pre-Calculus 12, Calculus 12, Foundations of Mathematics 12, and Statistics 12.

Three additional approved Grade 12 courses from any category: This means that you can choose any three other approved courses that align with your interests and academic goals.

In addition to these specific course requirements, applicants must also meet the following general requirements:

  • English language proficiency: Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English by achieving a satisfactory score on an approved English language test, such as the TOEFL or IELTS.
  • Academic achievement: Applicants must have a strong academic record, typically with an average of 80% or higher in their Grade 12 courses.
  • Personal qualities: SFU values applicants who are well-rounded individuals with a demonstrated commitment to academic success, community involvement, and personal growth.

Grade 12 required courses

 Students must complete a minimum of 5 approved grade 12 courses, including all required courses. Equivalent AP or IB courses may be used in place of the following courses.

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RequiredCourse List A
One of: 
English 12
English Studies 12 (English 12) (min 70%)
English First Peoples 12 (min 70%)
Francais langue et culture 12 (min 70%)
One of:Pre-Calculus 12
Two of:Anatomy & Physiology 12 (Biology 12) Calculus 12 Chemistry 12 Physics 12
TypeCourse List B
One additional from:
List A or List B
erican Sign Language 12
Arabic 12
Asian Studies 12
BC First Peoples 12
Comparative World Religions 12
Comparative Cultures 12 (Comparative Civilizations 12)
Composition 12
Computer Science 12
Contemporary Indigenous Studies 12
Creative Writing 12
Economic Theory 12
Economics 12
Engineering 12
Entrepreneurship 12
Environmental Science 12 (Sustainable Resources 12)
Financial Accounting 12
Foundations of Mathematics 12
French 12
Genocide Studies 12
Geology 12
Geometry 12
German 12
Human Geography 12
Italian 12
Japanese 12
Korean 12
Law Studies 12
Literary Studies 12 (English Literature 12)
Mandarin 12
Mechatronics 12
New Media 12
Philosophy 12
Physical Geography 12 (Geography 12)
Political Studies 12
Punjabi 12
Russian 12
Social Justice 12
Spanish 12
Spoken Language 12
Statistics 12
Urban Studies 12

 


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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:

  1. Certified copy of your South African ID or Smart Card.
  2. Parent(s) or guardian(s) ID documents.
  3. Proof of income (latest payslips, UIF, or affidavit if unemployed).
  4. Consent Form signed by your parent(s)/guardian(s) to allow NSFAS to verify income.
  5. Proof of registration or acceptance at a public institution.
  6. Academic transcripts (for continuing or postgraduate students).

🖥️ How to Apply for an NSFAS Loan Online

Step-by-Step NSFAS Online Application Process (2025)

  1. Visit the NSFAS Website

    Go to: https://www.nsfas.org.za

  2. 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.
  3. Login and Start the Application

    • After registration, log in to your MyNSFAS account.
    • Click on “Apply” to begin a new application.
  4. 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.
  5. Upload Required Documents

    • Upload all supporting documents in PDF or JPEG format.
    • Each document must be clear and under the size limit specified.
  6. Submit Your Application

    • Review your application for accuracy.
    • Click “Submit” and wait for a confirmation message.
  7. 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:

  1. Log into your MyNSFAS account.
  2. Click on “Track Funding Progress”.
  3. If rejected, click on “Submit Appeal”.
  4. Upload any missing or corrected documents.
  5. Provide a clear explanation or motivation.

📱 NSFAS Contact Information


📝 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.