University of Pretoria Calendar

The academic calendar for 2024/2026 academic session as approved by the authority of the University of Pretoria, UP.

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CALENDAR 2024 (Start 21 Feb) MAIN DATES

1 JanuaryNew Year’s Day
3 JanuaryAcademic year commences
17-22 JanuarySupplementary examinations of third-quarter, fourth-quarter, second-semester, and year modules
24 JanuaryLast day for submission of supplementary examination marks of third-quarter, fourth-quarter, second-semester, and year modules
24 January-5 FebruarySummer School
25 JanuaryCommencement of online registration for first-year students
1 FebruaryCommencement of online registration for senior students
7-12 FebruarySpecial exams (Summer School modules after 9 February)
9 FebruaryClosing date submission of final marks for Summer School
10 FebruaryAnniversary of the University’s founding
11-13 FebruarySpecial orientation for non-RSA students
12 FebruaryWelcome Day
14-18 FebruaryOrientation programme for new first-year students at Hatfield campus
16 February1.Closing date submission of final marks for Autumn graduation
2.Closing date for awarding undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications
3.Closing date submission of final marks for Special examinations
19 FebruaryINSYNC first year concert
21 FebruaryLectures commence for quarter 1 and semester 1
26 FebruaryRag
21 MarchHuman Rights Day
22 MarchClosing date for amendments or cancellation of modules (quarter 1, 2, and semester 1)
11 AprilLectures end for quarter 1
12-20 AprilApril recess
15 AprilGood Friday
18 AprilFamily Day
21 AprilLectures commence for quarter 2
27 AprilFreedom Day
28 AprilWednesday timetable table
1 MayWorkers’ Day
2 MayPublic holiday in terms of legislation
6 MayMonday timetable is followed
28 May-9 JulyCooling-off period for all non-academic student activities before and during the examination period
10 JuneLectures end for quarter 2 and semester 1
11-30 JuneExaminations of first-quarter, second-quarter, and first-semester modules
16 JuneYouth Day
4-9 JulySupplementary examinations of first-quarter, second-quarter, and first-semester modules
10-24 JulyJuly recess
11 JulyLast day for submission of supplementary examination marks of first-quarter, second-quarter, and first-semester modules
11-23 JulyWinter School
25 July1.Lectures commence for semester 2, quarter 3
2.Closing date submission of final marks for Winter School
29 JulyClosing date submission of final marks for Spring Graduation
8 AugustNo lecture day
9 AugustNational Women’s Day
24 AugustClosing date for amendments or cancellation of modules (quarter 3, 4, and semester 2)
10 September#ChooseUP Day
13 SeptemberLectures end for quarter 3
14 SeptemberSpring Day (no lecture day)
15-25 SeptemberSeptember recess
24 SeptemberHeritage Day
26 SeptemberLectures commence for quarter 4
7 OctoberInternational Students Day
29 October-7 DecemberCooling-off period for all non-academic student activities before and during the examination period
11 NovemberLectures end for quarter 4 semester 2
12-30 NovemberExamination of third-quarter, fourth-quarter, second-semester, and year modules
1-7 DecemberSupplementary examinations of third-quarter, fourth-quarter second-semester, and year modules
7 DecemberAcademic year ends
9 DecemberLast day for submission of supplementary examination marks of third-quarter, fourth-quarter, second-semester, and year modules
16 DecemberDay of Reconciliation
23 DecemberUniversity closes at 10:00
25 DecemberChristmas Day
26 DecemberDay of Goodwill
4 January 2026Academic year commences

GRADUATION CEREMONIES

  • 20 April                                          –      GIBS Graduation Ceremony

 


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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.