The University of Venda (Univen) is one of South Africa’s premier institutions for aspiring teachers, offering Bachelor of Education programs that prepare graduates to shape the future of education. If you’re wondering how many points are required to study teaching at Univen, this post will provide a clear overview of the admission requirements, while offering helpful tips for prospective students.
Minimum Admission Points for Teaching at Univen
To qualify for admission into a Bachelor of Education program at Univen, you need to meet the following minimum requirements:
- Points Requirement
- 26 Points: A minimum of 26 points on your National Senior Certificate (NSC) is required for admission into teaching programs at Univen.
- Subject Achievement
- You must achieve an adequate rating of 4 (50-59%) or better in at least four subjects selected from the 20-credit NSC subjects.
- English Proficiency
- Adequate achievement in English is crucial, as it’s the primary medium of instruction.
- Program-Specific Requirements
- For the Bachelor of Education (Further Education and Training) program, you need an additional average of 36% or higher to qualify.
- Special Cases
- If you completed Grade 12 before 2008, a grade 12 certificate with exemption is required.
- For international students, a certificate of exemption from the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) must be submitted.
Additional Considerations
It’s important to note that meeting the minimum requirements doesn’t guarantee admission. Admission is competitive, and the university reserves the right to review and adjust the minimum required points based on program capacity and other considerations.
How to Calculate Your Points
To determine whether you meet the required 26 points, calculate your scores based on your NSC subject achievements:
Need Information or Confused about Something ?
Ask a Question- Use the point allocation chart provided by the NSC for each of your subjects.
- Sum up your top six subject scores, ensuring they align with the required ratings.
Tips for Prospective Students
- Aim Higher Than the Minimum
While the minimum requirement is 26 points, achieving a higher score increases your chances of acceptance into the program. - Enhance Your English Skills
Strong English proficiency is a vital component for success, not just in meeting the admission criteria but also in excelling in your teaching studies. - Consult with Univen Admissions Office
For clarity on specific cases, such as international qualifications or other unique circumstances, reach out to Univen’s admissions office directly. - Stay Updated
Since the Senate may adjust admission criteria periodically, check Univen’s official website or announcements to stay informed of any changes.
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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)
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Visit the NSFAS Website
Go to: https://www.nsfas.org.za
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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.
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Login and Start the Application
- After registration, log in to your MyNSFAS account.
- Click on “Apply” to begin a new application.
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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.
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Upload Required Documents
- Upload all supporting documents in PDF or JPEG format.
- Each document must be clear and under the size limit specified.
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Submit Your Application
- Review your application for accuracy.
- Click “Submit” and wait for a confirmation message.
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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.