The application process for admission at the University of Alberta varies depending on whether you are applying for undergraduate or graduate studies.
Undergraduate Admissions
To apply for undergraduate admissions, you will need to create an account and submit an online application through ApplyAlberta. The application process typically includes the following steps:
- Create an ApplyAlberta account.
- Select your program of choice.
- Complete the online application form.
- Submit your application fee.
- Submit your required documents.
Required documents for undergraduate applicants:
- Official transcripts from all high schools and post-secondary institutions attended
- English language proficiency test scores (if applicable)
- Any other required documents for your program of choice
Application deadlines for undergraduate applicants:
- Early admission deadline: November 15
- Regular admission deadline: February 1
- Transfer admission deadline: March 1
Graduate Admissions
To apply for graduate admissions, you will need to create an account and submit an online application through the Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research website. The application process typically includes the following steps:
- Create a Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research account.
- Select your program of choice.
- Complete the online application form.
- Submit your application fee.
- Submit your required documents.
Required documents for graduate applicants:
- Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended
- English language proficiency test scores (if applicable)
- A statement of intent
- Two letters of recommendation
- Any other required documents for your program of choice
Application deadlines for graduate applicants:
- Deadlines vary depending on the program.
Additional information for international applicants
Apply for Undergraduate Admission
Note: Applications will only be accepted until 12:00 a.m. (MST) on the day of the indicated deadline.
First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Free Application Days: Sept 30 – Oct.6
If you self-identify as a First Nations, Métis or Inuit applicant and are applying as an external applicant (i.e. from High School or another Post-Secondary Institution), your application is FREE when you apply between Sept 30 and Oct 6, 2023. If you also apply for Residence at this time, your Residence Fee will also be FREE.
A team of advisors from the FNMI Free Application Days project will review your application for completeness and reach out with any suggestions or guidance.
For more information, please visit the Free Application Days site.
Tips for applying to the University of Alberta
Need Information or Confused about Something ?
Ask a Question- Start planning early. The application process can take several months, so it is important to start planning early.
- Meet with an admissions advisor. An admissions advisor can help you with the application process and answer any questions you may have.
- Proofread your application carefully. Make sure your application is free of errors.
- Submit your application on time. Meet all application deadlines to ensure your application is considered.
Sponsored Guide
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.
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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.