University of Fort Hare (UFH)

The University of Fort Hare (UFH) is a historic and prestigious institution in South Africa. Located primarily in Alice, Eastern Cape, UFH has played a vital role in shaping the African intellectual and political landscape. As a beacon of higher education, it offers diverse academic programs and a rich cultural heritage that attracts students from across South Africa and beyond.

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Founded in 1916, UFH was a cornerstone of higher education for Africans during a pivotal time in history. It educated numerous leaders who went on to lead independence movements and governments across Africa, including Nelson Mandela, Desmond Tutu, Robert Sobukwe, and Oliver Tambo.

2. World-Class Education

UFH combines its legacy with modern academic excellence. The university offers a variety of programs in fields such as humanities, science, law, and agriculture, catering to the needs of students in a globalized world.

3. Multiple Campuses

UFH operates across three campuses, each equipped with state-of-the-art facilities:

  • Alice Campus: The main campus, steeped in history and tradition.
    Address: Ring Road, Dikeni, 5700
    Tel: 040 602 2011
  • East London Campus: A hub for urban learning in the heart of East London.
    Address: 50 Church Street, East London, 5201
    Tel: 043 704 7000
  • Bhisho Campus: Focused on professional studies in the Eastern Cape’s administrative capital.
    Address: 50 Independence Avenue, Bhisho, 5605
    Tel: 040 608 3403

Application Process

Applying to UFH is straightforward, but it’s crucial to follow the steps carefully to ensure your application is processed successfully.

1. Application Fee

  • The non-refundable online application fee is R120.

2. Banking Details

Use the following information to pay your application fee:

  • Bank: Standard Bank
  • Account Number: 282101357
  • Branch: Alice
  • Branch Code: 050119

Reference:

  • For South African students: Use your ID number.
  • For international students: Use your passport number.

Submit your proof of payment with your application documents to validate your application.

3. Required Documents

Ensure you have the following ready:

  • Certified copies of your ID or passport.
  • Certified copies of your academic transcripts.
  • Completed Declaration by Parent/Guardian (for applicants under 18).

4. Online Application Portal

Applicants whose IDs are already in the UFH system must reapply via the portal. If you encounter issues with uploading documents, consult the Guide Document for assistance.

Click here to access the UFH application portal.

International Students

International students must comply with South African immigration requirements. For guidance:

Checking Your Application Status

After submitting your application, you should receive an SMS or email notification about your application status. If you don’t receive any communication, you can check your status via the UFH Student Support System.

For a detailed guide on checking your application status, click here.

Academic Excellence at UFH

UFH prides itself on producing leaders and innovators. Its curriculum is designed to prepare students for global challenges while addressing African-specific issues. The university’s programs emphasize critical thinking, research, and community engagement.

Contact UFH

For any inquiries, you can reach out to the respective campuses:

Need Information or Confused about Something ?

Ask a Question
  • Alice Campus: 040 602 2011
  • East London Campus: 043 704 7000
  • Bhisho Campus: 040 608 3403

 


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.