The University of Venda (Univen), situated in the heart of Thohoyandou in the picturesque Vhembe district of Limpopo Province, stands as a beacon of higher education in South Africa. Established in 1982, this rural-based institution has grown from its humble beginnings to become a key player in the nation’s education and development landscape. If you’re considering Univen for your academic journey, here’s everything you need to know.
- Is UNIVEN open for 2026 intake?
- What is the APS score for University of Venda?
- Does UNIVEN offer short courses?
- How do I know I am accepted at UNIVEN?
- How many points are needed to study teaching at Univen?
- Which bank does Univen use?
Univen was initially founded to serve the Republic of Venda during apartheid. Post-1994, the university underwent significant transformation, aligning itself with the broader South African democratic vision. Today, it offers a blend of traditional and career-focused programs, particularly excelling in science, technology, and problem-oriented, project-based curricula.
This emphasis ensures that the university produces graduates who are well-equipped to meet the demands of the national and international workforce. Univen is committed to uplifting underprepared students, making it a nurturing environment for academic and personal growth.
Academic Excellence at Univen
Faculties and Programs
Univen offers diverse programs across five faculties:
- Faculty of Science, Engineering, and Agriculture
- Cutting-edge courses in applied sciences and engineering.
- Contact: Mr. Maxwell Maboho | Email: maboho@univen.ac.za | Tel: +27 15 962 8880.
- Faculty of Humanities, Social Science, and Education
- Specializes in human development and cultural studies.
- Contact: Mrs. Gumani Tshimange | Email: gumani.tshimange@univen.ac.za | Tel: +27 15 962 8888.
- Faculty of Health Sciences
- Focused on training healthcare professionals for local and global challenges.
- Contact: Mrs. Aluwani Bugane | Email: aluwani.bugane@univen.ac.za | Tel: +27 15 962 8942.
- Faculty of Management, Commerce, and Law
- Nurtures future leaders in business and governance.
- Contact: Mr. Julius Netshidzivhe | Email: julius.netshidzivhe@univen.ac.za | Tel: +27 15 962 8961.
- Faculty of Education
- Prepares educators to address South Africa’s evolving educational needs.
Campus Life and Support Services
Univen boasts a vibrant campus life that reflects its diverse student body. Key services include:
- Counseling and Career Development: Support for mental health, career guidance, and personal development.
- Emergency Contact: 0800 567 567 (Suicide Hotline)
- ADHD Helpline: 0800 55 44 33
- Student Accommodation: Affordable and secure on-campus housing options.
- Contact: Solomon Phungo | Email: solomon.phungo@univen.ac.za | Tel: 015 962 8164.
- Financial Aid: Assists students with bursaries and funding opportunities.
- Email: financialaid@univen.ac.za | Tel: +27 15 962 8245.
Admissions and Applications
Univen welcomes both local and international students. Prospective students can apply online or visit the campus for assistance.
Need Information or Confused about Something ?
Ask a Question- International Admissions:
- Email: international.admissions@univen.ac.za
- Tel: +27 15 962 9347
- Student Administration (Academic Records & Certificates):
- Contact: Fhatuwani Mulidzi | Email: fhatuwani.mulidzi@univen.ac.za | Tel: 015 962 8959.
Contact Information
- Physical Address:
University Road, Thohoyandou, Limpopo, 0950 - Postal Address:
Private Bag X5050, Thohoyandou, Limpopo, 0950 - Switchboard: +27 15 962 8000
- GPS Coordinates: Latitude -22.9757 / Longitude 30.4444
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:
- Certified copy of your South African ID or Smart Card.
- Parent(s) or guardian(s) ID documents.
- Proof of income (latest payslips, UIF, or affidavit if unemployed).
- Consent Form signed by your parent(s)/guardian(s) to allow NSFAS to verify income.
- Proof of registration or acceptance at a public institution.
- Academic transcripts (for continuing or postgraduate students).
🖥️ How to Apply for an NSFAS Loan Online
Step-by-Step NSFAS Online Application Process (2025)
-
Visit the NSFAS Website
Go to: https://www.nsfas.org.za
-
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.
-
Login and Start the Application
- After registration, log in to your MyNSFAS account.
- Click on “Apply” to begin a new application.
-
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.
-
Upload Required Documents
- Upload all supporting documents in PDF or JPEG format.
- Each document must be clear and under the size limit specified.
-
Submit Your Application
- Review your application for accuracy.
- Click “Submit” and wait for a confirmation message.
-
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:
- Log into your MyNSFAS account.
- Click on “Track Funding Progress”.
- If rejected, click on “Submit Appeal”.
- Upload any missing or corrected documents.
- Provide a clear explanation or motivation.
📱 NSFAS Contact Information
- Website: https://www.nsfas.org.za
- Email: info@nsfas.org.za
- Toll-Free Number: 08000 67327 (Monday–Friday, 8 AM–5 PM)
- Twitter: @myNSFAS
- Facebook: NSFAS
📝 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.