University of South Africa Bridging Courses

IMPORTANT NOTE:   A UNIVERSITY BRIDGING course does NOT teach you a subject from the start (eg. Core Mathematics or Physical Science from Grade 10 level). You should already have those subjects even if your marks are not up to the required level.
If you do not have the subjects and you want to add them to your qualifications CLICK HERE

Various Universities and Universities of Technology offer bridging courses to assist students who do not quite meet the requirements for a recognised degree or qualification. These options have various names, depending on the institution or faculty.

Some Bridging Courses need to be completed before starting the actual course:

  • University Preparation Programme (UFS)
  • Foundation (UCT)
  • Access  (MUT) (WSU)

Some Bridging Courses extend the course by one year:

  • Extended (several – see below) Also called EDP (UL) and ECP (CUT)

Some Bridging Courses are focused on preparing students for technical courses:

  • ASPECT (UCT)
  • PRE-TECH (MUT)
  • ENGAGE (Engineering Augmented Degree Programme). (UJ)
  • UNITE (UKZN)

Things to keep in mind:

  • With Extended Courses, the initial entry requirements are slightly less and students need to complete an extra  year of study.
  • Universities still insist on subject requirements for the course, for example Mathematics or Physical Science.
  • Most universities also conduct a test, generally called the National Benchmark Test (NBT).
  • Some universities do not allow you to apply for an Extended Course but offer it if the results of their test show that you would benefit.
  • Adhering to the rules that apply will save you time. It is very useful to download or collect the Prospectuses or Information brochures that every university offers, to make sure there are no changes, every year.

These are the institutions and courses where these options apply:
 
UNIVERSITIES

Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU)
http://www.nmmu.ac.za/
Applicant who do not comply with the minimum statutory requirements for degree or diploma entry, but can admitted to an extended diploma or degree programme. They must successfully complete the first two years of the extended programme to qualify for full degree or diploma status.
Faculty of Arts

  • National Diploma: Fine Arts (Extended) (3 years)
  • National Diploma: Public Management (Extended) (4 years)
  • Bachelor of Arts (Extended) (4 years)
  • Extended Computing Fundamentals 1.1A
  • Extended Introduction to Conflict Management

Business and Economic Sciences

  • National Higher Certificate: Accountancy (Extended)
  • National Diploma Human Resources Management (Extended)
  • Bachelor of Commerce in Business Management; Economics;
  • Financial Planning; General Accountancy (Extended)

Engineering

  • National Diploma in Engineering: Electrical Engineering (Extended)
  • National Diploma: Information Technology in User Support Services Full-time, minimum duration 1 year

Health Sciences

  • Bachelor of Nursing (B Cur (extended) (5 years)
  • Bachelor of Pharmacy (extended) (5 years)

Law

  • LLB (Extended) (5 years)

Science

  • National Diploma: Analytical Chemistry (Extended) Full-time; duration 4 years
  • B Sc. Biological Sciences: Biochemistry & Microbiology (Extended) Full-time; duration 4 years

 
Northwest University – Mafikeng Campus
www.nwu.ac.za
Agriculture, Science and Technology

  • Bachelor of Science (Extended  – All programmes)

Commerce and Administration

  • Bachelor of Administration  (Extended)
  • Bachelor of Commerce  (Extended)

 
Northwest University – Potchefstroom Campus
http://www.nwu.ac.za/

  • Natural Sciences (Extended)

 
Northwest University – Vaal Triangle Campus  
http://www.nwu.ac.za/
Economic Sciences

  • B.Com Economics and Risk Management
  • B.Com Chartered Accountancy
  • BSc in Information Technology
  • BSc Data Mining (N301)
  • BSc in IT 2

 
University of Cape Town (UCT)
http://www.uct.ac.za
EXTENDED COURSES
Commerce

  • Systems/Accounting with Law/ Bachelor of Commerce: Accounting/PPE/Information  Economics with Law/ Management Studies/ Information Systems/ Information Systems & Computer Science/  Economics & Finance/ B Bus Sc, Economics & Stats, Management Studies 

Humanities
FOUNDATION

  • Bachelor of Fine Art, Bachelor of Music

ASPECT COURSES
Engineering

  • Academic Support Programme for Engineering (ASPECT) BSc(Eng) or BSc(Geomatics) studies

 
University of Johannesburg (UJ)
http://www.uj/ac.za
EXTENDED COURSES
Humanities

  • All Bachelor of Arts degrees

Management

  • National Diplomas: Human Resource Management, Logistics, Management, Small Business Management, Transportation Management
  • Bachelor of Commerce General

Engineering

  • National Diploma: Building, Metallurgy, Industrial, Mechanical, Management Services.
  • Bachelor of Engineering: B-Com Engineering, Electronical, Mechanical & Civil Engineering

 
University of Kwazulu Natal
http://www.ukzn.ac.za/
Access programmes identify candidates with potential and once registered they receive the required support to enable them to succeed. First-year programmes are restructured and additional courses are offered to improve their communication and academic writing skills. Pre-University courses and a mentorship programme are offered to assist with their academic development and challenges they may face.

  • Management Studies
  • Bachelor of Social Science

 
Unite
College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science
The UNITE programme aims to develop the skills needed for academic excellence, as well as to produce successful engineers.
EXTENDED (Augmented Curriculum)

  • Bachelor of Science
  • Bachelor of Arts
  • Bachelor of Social Science

 
University of Pretoria
https://web.up.ac.za/
Science

  • Bachelor of Science

Engineering

  • ENGAGE (Engineering Augmented Degree Programme)

 
University of Witwatersrand
http://www.wits.ac.za/
Health Sciences
Graduate Entry Medical Programme (GEMP) are required to write the National Benchmark Tests (NBT) before being considered for admission.
 
Wits Additional Placement Test (Wapt)
http://www.wits.ac.za/academic/health/entities/chse/gemp/10056/entryrequirements.html
Faculty Of Science

  • BSc (4 year Extended programme)
  • Engineering and the Built Environment
  • Bachelor of Architectural Studies  (Extended)

 
University of the Free State
http://www.ufs.ac.za/
University Preparation Programme
Students who are not successful in gaining admission to the University, but have an AP (Admission Point) of 20 points, may follow a University Preparation Programme (UPP) to obtain access.
Law: LLB

  • After 1st year and must have completed the UPP
  • B Iuris: Financial Planning
  • After 1st year and must have completed the UPP

Natural Science and Agricultural

  • Bachelor of Science

Theology

  • Bachelor of Divinity

 
University of Zululand
http://www.unizulu.ac.za/
Science & Agriculture
EXTENDED (Augmented Curriculum)
Augmented stream enables students to complete the first academic year over two years and they will receive substantial additional tuition and support. This stream will add an  additional year to the minimum time required for the completion of a programme.

  • Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Industrial Science

FOUNDATION
The Foundation stream enables students to spend their first year in a dedicated programme designed to improve their academic grounding. This stream will add an additional year to the minimum time required for the completion of a programme.
Commerce

  • Bachelor of Commerce
  • Extended Four-Year Programme

This is an alternate access programme offered over a four year period. It targets students with potential and flair for business and commercial interests.
Students with matriculation endorsement and with a pass in English, E (HG) /D (SG) and Mathematics, F (SG) will be considered. It is designed to develop competencies of students in language and numeracy and at the same time giving additional support by way of small group tutorials/lectures, for students to cope with the regular BCom modules. The additional year is designed to be student-centred focusing on raising their ability to meet the standards of the programme.
 
University of Fort Hare
http://www.ufh.ac.za/
Science and Agriculture
There are two Foundation Programmes, i.e. Science Foundation and the Ford Foundation Pathways.  These programmes are designed to assist students in their transition from school to university, provide support in key subjects (Maths, Science, English etc.) and to promote “soft skills”.
 
Walter Sisulu University
www.wsu.ac.za
Prospective students are required to do the National Benchmark Tests and certain faculties also require Standardized Assessment Tests For  Access And Placement  (SATAP)
Business, Management Sciences and Law
ACCESS

  • Economics Sciences Access Programme

EXTENDED

  • National Higher Certificate: Accountancy
  • National Diploma in Public Relations Management

All new first year students who have been accepted in this programme will be required to write a test to determine entry into:
• either the extended programme, done over three years, or
• the main stream programme done over two years.
The final placement of students into the NHC: Accountancy or the Extended Programme will be made after considering both the results of the assessment tests and the Grade 12 results.
(For more information on Extended Programmes refer to the information booklet on Extended Programmes)
National Diploma in Public  Relations Management Bsc
Science, Engineering and Technology

  • Bachelor of Science Computer Science
  • National Diploma: Consumer Science: Food and Nutrition
  • National Diploma: Building
  • National Diploma: Engineering (Civil)
  • National Diploma: Engineering (Electrical)
  • National Diploma: Engineering (Mechanical)
  • National Diploma: IT
  • National Diploma: Analytical Chemistry
  • National Diploma: Food and Consumer Science
  • Bachelor of Science (Computer Science)
  • Bachelor of Science
See also  Fidelity ADT HR Internships Opened for 2026

Health Sciences
Students without matriculation exemption can enrol in the Science Foundation year in lieu of the matriculation exemption.
 
Rhodes University
www.ru.ac.za
Students who do not meet the University’s usual admissions requirements may be offered a place on an Extended Programme which is completed over four rather than three years. Students enrolled on Extended Programmes start earning credits towards their degrees as soon as they enroll – Extended Programmes are therefore not like foundation courses which require students to complete an additional catch up year before they start their degrees.
Extended Programmes exist in the faculties of Commerce, Humanities and Science.
EXTENDED
Commerce

  • Bachelor Of Commerce
  • Bachelor Of Economics

Humanities

  • Bachelor Of Arts,
  • Bachelor Of Social Science,
  • Bachelor Of Journalism,
  • Bachelor of Music

Science

  • Bachelor of Science

 
University of Stellenbosch
www.sun.ac.za
EXTENDED DEGREE PROGRAMMES
Agricultural Sciences

  • Bachelor Agricultural Admin
  • Bachelor of Science: Agriculture
  • Bachelor of Science Conservation & Ecology
  • Bachelor of Science Food Science
  • Bachelor of Science In Viticulture And Oenology Or In Oenology (Specialised)
  • Bachelor of Science Forestry
  • Bachelor of Science

Arts  & Social Sciences

  • Bachelor of Arts in the Humanities
  • Bachelor of Arts in Language and Culture
  • Bachelor of Arts in Social Dynamics
  • Bachelor of Arts in Development and the Environment
  • Bachelor of Arts in Human Resource Management
  • Bachelor of Arts in International Studies
  • Bachelor of Arts of Social Work
  • Bachelor of Arts in Socio-Informatics

Economic and Management Sciences

  • Bachelor of Commerce: Management Sciences

Engineering

  • Bachelor of Engineering

Health Sciences

  • Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy
  • Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MB,ChB)

Science

  • Bachelor of Science in Biodiversity and Ecology
  • Bachelor of Science in Human Life Sciences
  • Bachelor of Science in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology
  • Bachelor of Science in Sport Science
  • Bachelor of Science in Chemistry
  • Bachelor of Science in Earth Sciences
  • Bachelor of Science in Geoinformatics
  • Bachelor of Science in Physics
  • Bachelor of Science in Mathematical Sciences

 
University of Limpopo
www.ul.ac.za
Social Sciences

  • Bachelor of Arts

Economics & Management

  • Bachelor of Commerce: Accounting

Law

  • Bachelor of Laws

Mathematical & Computer Sciences / Physical & Mineral Sciences

  • Bachelor of Science

Medicine

  • Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MB,ChB)

 
Monash University – (private institution)
http://www.monash.ac.za/
Monash South Africa Foundation Programme
The Monash South Africa Foundation Programme (MSAFP) is designed as a pathway to a Monash undergraduate degree. The programme enables students whose scores do not meet the requirements for direct entry into an undergraduate degree programme to bridge the gap between their highest education qualification and the academic qualifications accepted by Monash South Africa.
There is a February intake and a July intake into this one year programme.
 
UNIVERSITIES OF TECHNOLOGY
 
Cape Peninsula University of Technology CPUT
http://www.cput.ac.za/
Faculty of Engineering
Mathematical Literacy is not accepted for Engineering-related courses unless otherwise indicated. Applicants for an engineering-related programme, with a rating of 3 for Mathematics, may be considered for the extended programme.
 
Mangosutho University of Technology (MUT)
http://www.mut.ac.za/
ACCESS PROGRAMME
Engineering

  • National Diploma Engineering

Science

  • Pre-Tech: Analytical Chemistry

 
Central University of Technology (CUT)
http://www.cut.ac.za/
EXTENDED CURRICULUM PROGRAMME (ECP)
Prospective students applying for admission to a national diploma in these faculties:
Engineering and Information Technology
Health and Environmental Sciences
Humanities
 
Durban University of Technology (DUT)
http://www.dut.ac.za/
Do not advertise this fact
 
Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
www.tut.ac.za
The National Diploma (extended curriculum programme with foundation provision) is, where applicable, also presented as a Three and a half-year, four-year or five year qualification.
 
Vaal University of Technology
www.vut.ac.za
INTERVENTION PROGRAMMES
http://www.vut.ac.za/new/index.php/intervention-programmes/brochures
http://www.vut.ac.za/new/index.php/faculties-and-courses
The learning outcomes of the programme are to enhance skills and develop techniques to master the basic academic principles needed for the various mainstream programmes.

Need Information or Confused about Something ?

Ask a Question
  • Preparation to Humanities (HUM)
  • Preparation to Information Technology (IT)
  • Preparation to Management (MAN)
  • Preparation to Science, Engineering & Technology (SET)
  • Introduction to Humanities (HUM)
  • Introduction to Information Technology (IT BOOTCAMP)
    Where to do Bridging CoursesIMPORTANT NOTE:   A UNIVERSITY BRIDGING course does NOT teach you a subject from the start (eg. Core Mathematics or Physical Science from Grade 10 level). You should already have those subjects even if your marks are not up to the required level.
    If you do not have the subjects and you want to add them to your qualifications CLICK HERE

    Various Universities and Universities of Technology offer bridging courses to assist students who do not quite meet the requirements for a recognised degree or qualification. These options have various names, depending on the institution or faculty.Some Bridging Courses need to be completed before starting the actual course:
    • University Preparation Programme (UFS)
    • Foundation (UCT)
    • Access  (MUT) (WSU)Some Bridging Courses extend the course by one year:
    • Extended (several – see below) Also called EDP (UL) and ECP (CUT)Some Bridging Courses are focused on preparing students for technical courses:
    • ASPECT (UCT)
    • PRE-TECH (MUT)
    • ENGAGE (Engineering Augmented Degree Programme). (UJ)
    • UNITE (UKZN)Things to keep in mind:
    • With Extended Courses, the initial entry requirements are slightly less and students need to complete an extra  year of study.
    • Universities still insist on subject requirements for the course, for example Mathematics or Physical Science.
    • Most universities also conduct a test, generally called the National Benchmark Test (NBT).
    • Some universities do not allow you to apply for an Extended Course but offer it if the results of their test show that you would benefit.
    • Adhering to the rules that apply will save you time. It is very useful to download or collect the Prospectuses or Information brochures that every university offers, to make sure there are no changes, every year.These are the institutions and courses where these options apply:
       
      UNIVERSITIES

      Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU)
      http://www.nmmu.ac.za/
      Applicant who do not comply with the minimum statutory requirements for degree or diploma entry, but can admitted to an extended diploma or degree programme. They must successfully complete the first two years of the extended programme to qualify for full degree or diploma status.
      Faculty of Arts
    • National Diploma: Fine Arts (Extended) (3 years)
    • National Diploma: Public Management (Extended) (4 years)
    • Bachelor of Arts (Extended) (4 years)
    • Extended Computing Fundamentals 1.1A
    • Extended Introduction to Conflict ManagementBusiness and Economic Sciences
    • National Higher Certificate: Accountancy (Extended)
    • National Diploma Human Resources Management (Extended)
    • Bachelor of Commerce in Business Management; Economics;
    • Financial Planning; General Accountancy (Extended)Engineering
    • National Diploma in Engineering: Electrical Engineering (Extended)
    • National Diploma: Information Technology in User Support Services Full-time, minimum duration 1 yearHealth Sciences
    • Bachelor of Nursing (B Cur (extended) (5 years)
    • Bachelor of Pharmacy (extended) (5 years)Law
    • LLB (Extended) (5 years)Science
    • National Diploma: Analytical Chemistry (Extended) Full-time; duration 4 years
    • B Sc. Biological Sciences: Biochemistry & Microbiology (Extended) Full-time; duration 4 years 
      Northwest University – Mafikeng Campus
      www.nwu.ac.za
      Agriculture, Science and Technology
    • Bachelor of Science (Extended  – All programmes)Commerce and Administration
    • Bachelor of Administration  (Extended)
    • Bachelor of Commerce  (Extended) 
      Northwest University – Potchefstroom Campus
      http://www.nwu.ac.za/
    • Natural Sciences (Extended) 
      Northwest University – Vaal Triangle Campus  
      http://www.nwu.ac.za/
      Economic Sciences
    • B.Com Economics and Risk Management
    • B.Com Chartered Accountancy
    • BSc in Information Technology
    • BSc Data Mining (N301)
    • BSc in IT 2 
      University of Cape Town (UCT)
      http://www.uct.ac.za
      EXTENDED COURSES
      Commerce
    • Systems/Accounting with Law/ Bachelor of Commerce: Accounting/PPE/Information  Economics with Law/ Management Studies/ Information Systems/ Information Systems & Computer Science/  Economics & Finance/ B Bus Sc, Economics & Stats, Management Studies Humanities
      FOUNDATION
    • Bachelor of Fine Art, Bachelor of MusicASPECT COURSES
      Engineering
    • Academic Support Programme for Engineering (ASPECT) BSc(Eng) or BSc(Geomatics) studies 
      University of Johannesburg (UJ)
      http://www.uj/ac.za
      EXTENDED COURSES
      Humanities
    • All Bachelor of Arts degreesManagement
    • National Diplomas: Human Resource Management, Logistics, Management, Small Business Management, Transportation Management
    • Bachelor of Commerce GeneralEngineering
    • National Diploma: Building, Metallurgy, Industrial, Mechanical, Management Services.
    • Bachelor of Engineering: B-Com Engineering, Electronical, Mechanical & Civil Engineering 
      University of Kwazulu Natal
      http://www.ukzn.ac.za/
      Access programmes identify candidates with potential and once registered they receive the required support to enable them to succeed. First-year programmes are restructured and additional courses are offered to improve their communication and academic writing skills. Pre-University courses and a mentorship programme are offered to assist with their academic development and challenges they may face.
    • Management Studies
    • Bachelor of Social Science 
      Unite
      College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science
      The UNITE programme aims to develop the skills needed for academic excellence, as well as to produce successful engineers.
      EXTENDED (Augmented Curriculum)
    • Bachelor of Science
    • Bachelor of Arts
    • Bachelor of Social Science 
      University of Pretoria
      https://web.up.ac.za/
      Science
    • Bachelor of ScienceEngineering
    • BSc (4 year Extended programme)
    • Engineering and the Built Environment
    • Bachelor of Architectural Studies  (Extended) 
      University of the Free State
      http://www.ufs.ac.za/
      University Preparation Programme
      Students who are not successful in gaining admission to the University, but have an AP (Admission Point) of 20 points, may follow a University Preparation Programme (UPP) to obtain access.
      Law: LLB
    • After 1st year and must have completed the UPP
    • B Iuris: Financial Planning
    • After 1st year and must have completed the UPPNatural Science and Agricultural
    • Bachelor of ScienceTheology
    • Bachelor of Divinity 
      University of Zululand
      http://www.unizulu.ac.za/
      Science & Agriculture
      EXTENDED (Augmented Curriculum)
      Augmented stream enables students to complete the first academic year over two years and they will receive substantial additional tuition and support. This stream will add an  additional year to the minimum time required for the completion of a programme.
    • Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Industrial ScienceFOUNDATION
      The Foundation stream enables students to spend their first year in a dedicated programme designed to improve their academic grounding. This stream will add an additional year to the minimum time required for the completion of a programme.
      Commerce
    • Bachelor of Commerce
    • Extended Four-Year ProgrammeThis is an alternate access programme offered over a four year period. It targets students with potential and flair for business and commercial interests.
      Students with matriculation endorsement and with a pass in English, E (HG) /D (SG) and Mathematics, F (SG) will be considered. It is designed to develop competencies of students in language and numeracy and at the same time giving additional support by way of small group tutorials/lectures, for students to cope with the regular BCom modules. The additional year is designed to be student-centred focusing on raising their ability to meet the standards of the programme.
       
      University of Fort Hare
      http://www.ufh.ac.za/
      Science and Agriculture
      There are two Foundation Programmes, i.e. Science Foundation and the Ford Foundation Pathways.  These programmes are designed to assist students in their transition from school to university, provide support in key subjects (Maths, Science, English etc.) and to promote “soft skills”.
       
      Walter Sisulu University
      www.wsu.ac.za
      Prospective students are required to do the National Benchmark Tests and certain faculties also require Standardized Assessment Tests For  Access And Placement  (SATAP)
      Business, Management Sciences and Law
      ACCESS
    • Economics Sciences Access Programme
    • EXTENDED
    • National Higher Certificate: Accountancy
    • National Diploma in Public Relations ManagementAll new first year students who have been accepted in this programme will be required to write a test to determine entry into:
      • either the extended programme, done over three years, or
      • the main stream programme done over two years.
      The final placement of students into the NHC: Accountancy or the Extended Programme will be made after considering both the results of the assessment tests and the Grade 12 results.
      (For more information on Extended Programmes refer to the information booklet on Extended Programmes)
      National Diploma in Public  Relations Management Bsc
      Science, Engineering and Technology
    • Bachelor of Science Computer Science
    • National Diploma: Consumer Science: Food and Nutrition
    • National Diploma: Building
    • National Diploma: Engineering (Civil)
    • National Diploma: Engineering (Electrical)
    • National Diploma: Engineering (Mechanical)
    • National Diploma: IT
    • National Diploma: Analytical Chemistry
    • National Diploma: Food and Consumer Science
    • Bachelor of Science (Computer Science)
    • Bachelor of ScienceHealth Sciences
      Students without matriculation exemption can enrol in the Science Foundation year in lieu of the matriculation exemption.
       
      Rhodes University
      www.ru.ac.za
      Students who do not meet the University’s usual admissions requirements may be offered a place on an Extended Programme which is completed over four rather than three years. Students enrolled on Extended Programmes start earning credits towards their degrees as soon as they enroll – Extended Programmes are therefore not like foundation courses which require students to complete an additional catch up year before they start their degrees.
      Extended Programmes exist in the faculties of Commerce, Humanities and Science.
      EXTENDED
      Commerce
    • Bachelor Of Commerce
    • Bachelor Of EconomicsHumanities
    • Bachelor Of Arts,
    • Bachelor Of Social Science,
    • Bachelor Of Journalism,
    • Bachelor of MusicScience
    • Bachelor of Science 
      University of Stellenbosch
      www.sun.ac.za
      EXTENDED DEGREE PROGRAMMES
      Agricultural Sciences
    • Bachelor Agricultural Admin
    • Bachelor of Science: Agriculture
    • Bachelor of Science Conservation & Ecology
    • Bachelor of Science Food Science
    • Bachelor of Science In Viticulture And Oenology Or In Oenology (Specialised)
    • Bachelor of Science Forestry
    • Bachelor of ScienceArts  & Social Sciences
    • Bachelor of Arts in the Humanities
    • Bachelor of Arts in Language and Culture
    • Bachelor of Arts in Social Dynamics
    • Bachelor of Arts in Development and the Environment
    • Bachelor of Arts in Human Resource Management
    • Bachelor of Arts in International Studies
    • Bachelor of Arts of Social Work
    • Bachelor of Arts in Socio-InformaticsEconomic and Management Sciences
    • Bachelor of Commerce: Management SciencesEngineering
    • Bachelor of EngineeringHealth Sciences
    • Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy
    • Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MB,ChB)Science
    • Bachelor of Science in Biodiversity and Ecology
    • Bachelor of Science in Human Life Sciences
    • Bachelor of Science in Molecular Biology and Biotechnology
    • Bachelor of Science in Sport Science
    • Bachelor of Science in Chemistry
    • Bachelor of Science in Earth Sciences
    • Bachelor of Science in Geoinformatics
    • Bachelor of Science in Physics
    • Bachelor of Science in Mathematical Sciences 
      University of Limpopo
      www.ul.ac.za
      Social Sciences
    • Bachelor of ArtsEconomics & Management
    • Bachelor of Commerce: AccountingLaw
    • Bachelor of LawsMathematical & Computer Sciences / Physical & Mineral Sciences
    • Bachelor of ScienceMedicine
    • Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MB,ChB) 
      Monash University – (private institution)
      http://www.monash.ac.za/
      Monash South Africa Foundation Programme
      The Monash South Africa Foundation Programme (MSAFP) is designed as a pathway to a Monash undergraduate degree. The programme enables students whose scores do not meet the requirements for direct entry into an undergraduate degree programme to bridge the gap between their highest education qualification and the academic qualifications accepted by Monash South Africa.
      There is a February intake and a July intake into this one year programme.
       
      UNIVERSITIES OF TECHNOLOGY
       
      Cape Peninsula University of Technology CPUT
      http://www.cput.ac.za/
      Faculty of Engineering
      Mathematical Literacy is not accepted for Engineering-related courses unless otherwise indicated. Applicants for an engineering-related programme, with a rating of 3 for Mathematics, may be considered for the extended programme.
       
      Mangosutho University of Technology (MUT)
      http://www.mut.ac.za/
      ACCESS PROGRAMME
      Engineering
    • National Diploma EngineeringScience
    • Pre-Tech: Analytical Chemistry 
      Central University of Technology (CUT)
      http://www.cut.ac.za/
      EXTENDED CURRICULUM PROGRAMME (ECP)
      Prospective students applying for admission to a national diploma in these faculties:
      Engineering and Information Technology
      Health and Environmental Sciences
      Humanities
       
      Durban University of Technology (DUT)
      http://www.dut.ac.za/
      Do not advertise this fact
       
      Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
      www.tut.ac.za
      The National Diploma (extended curriculum programme with foundation provision) is, where applicable, also presented as a Three and a half-year, four-year or five year qualification.
       
      Vaal University of Technology
      www.vut.ac.za
      INTERVENTION PROGRAMMES
      http://www.vut.ac.za/new/index.php/intervention-programmes/brochures
      http://www.vut.ac.za/new/index.php/faculties-and-courses
      The learning outcomes of the programme are to enhance skills and develop techniques to master the basic academic principles needed for the various mainstream programmes.
    • Preparation to Humanities (HUM)
    • Preparation to Information Technology (IT)
    • Preparation to Management (MAN)
    • Preparation to Science, Engineering & Technology (SET)
    • Introduction to Humanities (HUM)
    • Introduction to Information Technology (IT BOOTCAMP)

 


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).
See also  NSFAS process funding applications For 2026

📚 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.