ISASA Calendar

When it comes to independent schools in South Africa, the ISASA (Independent Schools Association of Southern Africa) calendar plays an important role. Understanding how ISASA term dates work, where to find the calendar, and what it means for independent schooling is essential for anyone navigating the educational landscape.

No Universal Calendar for Independent Schools

Unlike public schools that follow a uniform national calendar, independent schools in South Africa do not have a universal term calendar. Instead, they may choose from different options:

  1. Following the Public School Calendar: Many independent schools align their schedules with South Africa’s public school calendar.
  2. Using the ISASA Central Region Calendar: This calendar is developed as a guideline for ISASA member schools, particularly in the Central Region, which covers Gauteng, Free State, North West, and Northern Cape.
  3. Creating Custom Calendars: Some independent schools may create and follow their own academic calendars to suit their unique needs.

What Is the ISASA Central Region Calendar?

The ISASA Central Region Calendar is a recommended academic schedule specifically designed for ISASA member schools within the Central Region. Although it is widely adopted, schools in this region are not obligated to use it. This calendar is created by the ISASA Central Region Calendar Committee and serves as a valuable resource for coordinating term dates among member schools.

Download the ISASA Calendar

To get the latest version of the ISASA Central Region Calendar or the public school calendar, you can easily download them from the official ISASA website. Here are some quick links:

  • Central Region Calendar 2026 (131.89 KB)
  • Public School Calendar 2026 (Proposed) (289.70 KB)
  • Central Region Calendar 2026 (Available for download)
  • Public School Calendar 2026 (97.37 KB)
  • Central Region Calendar 2024 (129.55 KB)
  • Public School Calendar 2024 (97.65 KB)

These downloadable calendars are updated regularly to reflect any changes or proposed academic terms for upcoming years.

Why the ISASA Calendar Matters

  1. Efficient Planning: For teachers and administrators, having access to an accurate academic calendar helps in scheduling lessons, exams, and school events.
  2. Parental Convenience: Parents can plan family activities, vacations, and childcare around school terms.
  3. Student Preparation: Students can manage their study schedules and prepare for exams based on clear term dates.

Differences Between ISASA and Public School Calendars

The main difference between ISASA and public school calendars lies in flexibility. While public schools adhere strictly to a government-mandated academic year, ISASA member schools have the freedom to adopt the Central Region Calendar or develop a custom one. This flexibility allows independent schools to better cater to their specific educational philosophies or logistical needs.

Conclusion

The ISASA Calendar is an essential resource for anyone involved in independent schooling in South Africa. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or student, understanding how the ISASA term dates work and where to find them can greatly simplify academic planning.

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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.