NMU Campuses

Nelson Mandela University (NMU), located in South Africa, is renowned for its diverse academic offerings, vibrant campus life, and picturesque settings. Established in 2005, NMU originated from the merger of the University of Port Elizabeth, Port Elizabeth Technikon, and Vista University’s Port Elizabeth campus. This comprehensive institution offers a wide array of programs from diplomas to doctoral degrees, emphasizing professional and vocational training. With seven campuses across Gqeberha and George, NMU provides a dynamic environment tailored to various educational needs.

1. South Campus

  • Location: Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth)
  • Overview: The South Campus is the main campus of NMU and serves as the university’s administrative hub. It’s nestled in a beautiful coastal setting, offering students a breathtaking ocean view. This campus is well-known for its high-tech facilities, including lecture halls, libraries, and computer labs, catering to various faculties and programs.
  • Facilities: Lecture halls, libraries, computer labs, and student residences. There are also convenient food outlets for students to relax and enjoy meals between classes.

2. North Campus

  • Location: Gqeberha
  • Overview: North Campus hosts several academic programs, particularly in the fields of engineering, technology, and health sciences. Known for its practical and hands-on approach, North Campus houses modern laboratories and workshops that enhance students’ learning experience.
  • Facilities: Laboratories, workshops, and medical simulation centers for students in health sciences.

3. Second Avenue Campus

  • Location: Gqeberha
  • Overview: This campus focuses on business and economic sciences, making it a hub for aspiring entrepreneurs and business professionals. It’s conveniently located near shopping centers and provides a business-like atmosphere that complements the programs offered.
  • Facilities: Business simulation labs, lecture halls, and study areas.

4. Missionvale Campus

  • Location: Gqeberha
  • Overview: The Missionvale Campus is primarily dedicated to community engagement and programs that address social and economic challenges. It offers programs in education, social sciences, and community health, creating a nurturing environment for those passionate about making a difference.
  • Facilities: Community-oriented facilities, such as health clinics and social work labs, aimed at fostering a positive impact in the surrounding community.

5. Bird Street Campus

  • Location: Gqeberha
  • Overview: As NMU’s arts and culture hub, Bird Street Campus is home to the university’s art and design programs. Located in a historic part of the city, it houses art galleries and exhibition spaces that showcase student and professional artworks.
  • Facilities: Art galleries, studios, and exhibition halls that allow for an immersive creative experience.

6. Ocean Sciences Campus

  • Location: Gqeberha
  • Overview: As one of NMU’s specialized campuses, the Ocean Sciences Campus focuses on marine and coastal studies. It offers unique programs in oceanography, marine biology, and environmental sciences, making it a leader in ocean-related research in Africa.
  • Facilities: Research laboratories, aquariums, and equipment for marine studies.

7. George Campus

  • Location: George, Western Cape
  • Overview: George Campus is set in the serene surroundings of the Western Cape’s Garden Route. The campus offers programs in environmental management, agriculture, and forestry, utilizing the natural landscape as a living laboratory. Known for its focus on sustainability, George Campus aligns its academic programs with eco-friendly practices.
  • Facilities: Forestry laboratories, agricultural fields, and environmentally focused learning centers.

Campus Amenities

Each NMU campus offers an array of facilities to enhance the student experience, from libraries and computer labs to sports facilities and dining options. Here’s a quick overview of some popular amenities:

  • Food Outlets: Across all campuses, students have access to various food outlets, providing a range of options from quick snacks to full meals. The diversity in dining options caters to different tastes and dietary preferences.
  • Libraries: Well-stocked libraries are available on most campuses, featuring an extensive collection of resources, study spaces, and access to digital materials.
  • Recreational Facilities: NMU encourages a balanced lifestyle, offering sports complexes, gym facilities, and outdoor areas for students to stay active and socialize.
  • Campus Maps: Detailed campus maps are available online and in print to help students and visitors navigate each campus efficiently.

Choosing the Right NMU Campus

With seven campuses, each specializing in different academic and professional fields, Nelson Mandela University provides prospective students with plenty of options. When selecting a campus, consider your program of interest, the facilities, and the campus environment that best supports your educational and personal goals.

Whether you are pursuing a career in arts, business, science, or technology, NMU’s campuses are designed to support a comprehensive, enriching educational experience. Additionally, the campuses’ locations in Gqeberha and George offer students the advantage of studying in one of South Africa’s most scenic regions.

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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:

  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.

 

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