MTN 8

The MTN8 is one of the most prestigious soccer tournaments in South Africa, showcasing the best teams from the country’s top-flight league. Since its inception in 1972, the MTN8 has captivated football fans, pitting the top eight teams from the previous season against one another. With a rich history and an electrifying format, the tournament has become a must-watch event on the South African sports calendar.

Road to the 2024 MTN8 Final: Teams, Format, and Dates

The journey to the MTN8 final is not for the faint-hearted. The tournament’s semi-finals add a layer of intrigue with a two-legged format, where teams face off both home and away. This unique structure allows for a comeback opportunity in the second leg, ensuring that the drama lasts right up to the final whistle. Aggregate scoring across both matches determines the finalists, heightening the stakes for every goal.

For 2024, the MTN8 final is set to take place on:

  • Date: 05 October 2024
  • Venue: Moses Mabhida Stadium, Durban

This year’s finalists, Orlando Pirates and Stellenbosch FC, are ready to battle it out for one of the biggest prizes in South African football. Pirates are chasing yet another trophy, while Stellenbosch FC, a rising star in the league, aims for their first major cup win.

Venue Spotlight: Moses Mabhida Stadium

Hosting this year’s final, the Moses Mabhida Stadium is a world-class venue located in Durban. Known for its striking architecture and capacity to host major events, including international football matches and concerts, the stadium offers the perfect stage for the MTN8 final. It has become an iconic part of South Africa’s sporting culture and is well-equipped to handle the electric atmosphere that will come with two top-tier teams competing for glory.

Why the MTN8 Matters

The MTN8 is not just about the prize money; it’s about prestige, tradition, and fan engagement. Winning this tournament solidifies a team’s place among the elite of South African football. For players, it’s an opportunity to showcase their skills on one of the country’s biggest stages, while for coaches, it’s a chance to cement their legacy.

This year’s final has generated massive buzz, particularly with Orlando Pirates looking to add yet another title to their already impressive collection. Meanwhile, Stellenbosch FC, a relatively new force, aims to make history by securing their first major cup victory.

MTN8 Final Tickets and Fan Information

Fans eager to watch the 2024 MTN8 final live should secure their tickets early. The PSL has announced that tickets are now available for purchase, but they are expected to sell out quickly due to the significance of this event. The final will be an unmissable football spectacle, whether you’re watching from the stadium or tuning in from home.

For the latest updates, including kick-off times, ticket availability, and more, fans should keep an eye on the PSL’s official website and their social media channels.

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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.