Is Exxaro a good company to work for?

If you’re considering a career in the South African mining and energy sector, Exxaro Resources might have caught your attention. As one of the largest and most well-established companies in the industry, Exxaro has earned recognition for its workplace culture and opportunities for growth. But is Exxaro a good company to work for? Let’s explore the key factors that make it stand out—and the areas that might need improvement.

1. Exxaro’s Recognition as a Top Employer

One of the standout aspects of Exxaro is its consistent recognition as a Top Employer. The company has been awarded this title for four consecutive years, including 2023, by the prestigious Top Employers Institute. This award is not just a formality but reflects the company’s commitment to its employees, focusing on providing excellent human resource practices and employee satisfaction.

Being named a Top Employer indicates that Exxaro invests in its people, offering competitive salaries, benefits, and career growth opportunities. For those seeking a company that prioritizes the well-being and professional development of its workforce, this is certainly a positive indicator.

2. Employee Reviews and Ratings

When it comes to employee satisfaction, Exxaro maintains a solid reputation. On Glassdoor, the company has earned an impressive rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, which indicates a high level of employee satisfaction. An outstanding 86% of employees would recommend Exxaro to a friend, reflecting the positive work environment the company cultivates.

Employees appreciate the compensation and benefits provided by Exxaro, rating it 3.9 out of 5 stars. While this is generally positive, it’s important to note that some employees feel there could be room for improvement, particularly in areas like career advancement and management practices.

3. Career Opportunities and Growth

One of the key considerations for job seekers is whether a company offers sufficient career development opportunities. Exxaro scores 3.6 out of 5 for career opportunities, which indicates that while there is room for improvement, many employees feel that the company provides pathways for growth and advancement.

Exxaro’s focus on career development is another strong selling point, with employees reporting that the company offers training programs and opportunities to upskill. However, as with any large corporation, the experience can vary based on role and department, and some employees feel that the growth opportunities may be limited for certain positions.

4. Company Culture

Exxaro’s culture has received positive reviews from many employees, with some praising the inclusive environment and collaborative work atmosphere. Many report that Exxaro fosters a sense of community and teamwork, making it a great place for those who thrive in a supportive environment.

However, as with any company, experiences can differ. While some employees report that the culture is a strong pro, others note that it can sometimes feel challenging, particularly in terms of how diversity and inclusion are handled.

5. Benefits of Working at Exxaro

The benefits provided by Exxaro are often highlighted as a significant positive. Employees appreciate the health, retirement, and wellness benefits offered by the company. This is a major draw for those seeking a secure and supportive work environment.

6. Challenges: Diversity and Leadership

No company is without its challenges, and Exxaro is no exception. One area where employees have expressed concerns is diversity and inclusion. While the company has made strides in fostering a diverse workplace, some employees feel that more could be done to address inclusivity, especially at the senior leadership level.

Additionally, management and senior leadership at Exxaro have been cited as areas for improvement. Some employees have expressed frustration with leadership styles and decision-making processes, feeling that communication could be more transparent and effective. As with many large organizations, the experience of management can vary significantly depending on the department.

7. Final Verdict: Is Exxaro a Good Company to Work For?

Based on the data, Exxaro stands out as a reputable employer in South Africa, earning recognition for its positive workplace culture, career development opportunities, and competitive benefits. Its Top Employer status and high ratings from employees indicate that it’s a solid choice for many professionals looking to build a career in the mining and energy sector.

However, like any large organization, there are areas for improvement, particularly in terms of diversity and inclusion and management practices. If you’re considering a career at Exxaro, these are factors to keep in mind as you make your decision.

Overall, if you value career growth, competitive benefits, and being part of a Top Employer, Exxaro is likely a good company to work for. Just be aware of the potential challenges related to leadership and diversity, and evaluate whether those align with your personal career goals and values.

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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.