Stellenbosch University (SU)

Stellenbosch University (SU) is a world-renowned public research institution located in the picturesque town of Stellenbosch in the Western Cape province of South Africa. As the oldest university in South Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa, SU has a rich history of academic excellence, groundbreaking innovation, and a vibrant student community.

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Established in 1918 with full university status, Stellenbosch University has grown into a powerhouse of knowledge and innovation. It is credited with designing and manufacturing Africa’s first microsatellite, SUNSAT, which was launched in 1999. This pioneering spirit underlines SU’s commitment to cutting-edge research and global impact.

Academic Offerings

SU offers a diverse range of programs across 10 faculties and 139 departments. Degrees range from bachelor’s (NQF 7) to doctoral levels (NQF 10) and are offered in both English and Afrikaans. Whether you’re pursuing a degree in science, engineering, business, or the arts, SU provides world-class education tailored to the demands of a rapidly evolving world.

Faculties at SU:

  1. AgriSciences
  2. Arts and Social Sciences
  3. Economic and Management Sciences
  4. Education
  5. Engineering
  6. Law
  7. Medicine and Health Sciences
  8. Military Science
  9. Science
  10. Theology

Student Life at Stellenbosch University

The student body of over 32,000 students is affectionately referred to as “Maties.” This nickname, thought to be derived from the Afrikaans word tamatie (tomato), reflects the maroon color of the university’s sports uniforms and blazers.

As a residential university, SU provides a holistic student experience, combining face-to-face teaching with innovative technologies like Wi-Fi-enabled campuses, livestreaming services, and the SUNLearn mobile app. Additionally, SU has expanded into online learning through its edX StellenboscX portfolio, catering to global students.

Research and Innovation

Stellenbosch University is a leader in impactful and relevant research. Its focus on solving complex challenges in South Africa and beyond makes it a vital contributor to technological innovation and social transformation. The university’s research output addresses critical issues such as climate change, public health, and sustainable development, cementing its reputation as a globally respected institution.

Campus Life and Facilities

SU spans five campuses in the Western Cape, offering state-of-the-art facilities to support both academic and extracurricular activities. From the historical Victoria Street campus to cutting-edge laboratories and libraries, the university ensures an environment conducive to learning and personal growth.

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Key Services for Students:

  • Campus Health Services (CHS): Provides healthcare support during weekdays.
  • Equality Unit: Addresses discrimination, harassment, and victimization on campus.
  • Emergency Services: Comprehensive safety measures, including campus security and partnerships with emergency services.

Contact Information:

  • Telephone: +27 21 808 9111
  • Email: info@sun.ac.za
  • Physical Address: Administration B Building, Victoria Street, Stellenbosch
  • GPS Coordinates: 18° 51′ 47.536″ E | 33° 56′ 1.327″ S

 


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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.