What GPA is needed for UVic?

The minimum GPA required for admission to the University of Victoria (UVic) in Canada is 4.0 on UVic’s 9-point scale, which is equivalent to a B average. However, most programs at UVic are competitive and require a higher GPA for admission. For example, the School of Environmental Studies typically only admits students who have a GPA of 6.5 (B+ / A-) or greater over the second half of their program.

Graduate programs at UVic also have higher GPA requirements. For admission to a master’s program, you must have a GPA of at least 5.0 (B) over the last two years of your undergraduate degree. For admission to a PhD program, you must have a GPA of at least 7.0 (A-) on your master’s degree.

Here is a table of the minimum GPA requirements for admission to UVic, by program type:

| Program Type | Minimum GPA | |—|—|—| | Undergraduate | 4.0 (B) | | Master’s | 5.0 (B) over the last two years of undergraduate degree | | PhD | 7.0 (A-) on master’s degree |

Please note that these are just the minimum requirements. In practice, you may need a higher GPA to be admitted to your desired program, especially if it is competitive. It is also important to note that some programs have additional admission requirements, such as specific courses or letters of recommendation.

Admission and program requirements

Prerequisites and Criteria for Admission to Masters and PhD Programs in Environmental Studies

MA/MSc. The only formal prerequisite for admission to the Master of Arts or Master of Sciences (MA/MSc) programs in Environmental Studies is a bachelors degree with a GPA of 6.5 (B+ / A-) or greater over the second half of program. In practice, a higher GPA may be required for admission.

PhD. Admission requires a master’s degree, preferably in an area of study related to your proposed graduate program, with a minimum overall average of A-, 7.0 on the University of Victoria 9-point scale. In practice, a higher GPA may be required for admission.

Admission to all of these programs is highly competitive and the School of Environmental Studies typically only admits students who meet the following criteria:

  1. Students must have First-Class standing, based on the last two years (or equivalent number of terms) of full-time study. This means that to be considered, students must have an even higher GPA than that stated above: at least 3.7/4.0 (or A-), equivalent to 7.0 on UVic’s 9.0-scale. Some exceptions may be made, in extenuating circumstances, such as with mature applicants who have: 1) achieved significant work experience, 2) shown evidence of an ability to complete major projects in a competent and timely manner, and 3) have demonstrated the knowledge, skills and abilities expected of highly accomplished undergraduate students.
  2. Students must have made contact with one of our faculty members approximately four to twelve months before the application due date. Our faculty members conduct research in our School’s three streams of study: political ecology, ethnoecology, and restoration ecology. Our research-intensive master’s degrees are thesis-based and require that you find a project of mutual interest with one of our faculty members. On your application, you will be required to indicate a faculty member to be your proposed supervisor, and only those who have established a connection with a faculty member are likely to be considered for admission. Information on our faculty can be found on our website, under the People tab.

When looking for a prospective supervisor, it is vital that you familiarize yourself with the research our faculty members do by visiting their research pages. Many faculty members include information for prospective students on their web page, and some list the documents they would like to receive in email inquiries. In general, including a transcript, a curriculum vitae/resume, a summary of your research background, and a prospective research proposal is required. It is critical that your research proposal is well-developed and demonstrates how it is connected to the research of the faculty member you are contacting. All applications will be reviewed by the School’s Graduate Program Committee, but only applicants who have communicated with a faculty member and been encouraged to apply are likely to be considered for admission.

Proof of English-language proficiency may be required if English is not your first language, as determined by our Faculty of Graduate Studies. The tests accepted by UVic are TOEFL, IELTS and MET. More information about who is exempt from this requirement can be found on the UVic website  Test scores must be submitted to the Graduate Admissions and Records Office together with their application forms. Even with passing language proficiency scores, students may be required to take English language courses as well as their other course work.

Documents Required for Submission with Application

  • Statement of research interest (1-2 pages; identifying the faculty member(s) you wish to work with. Remember that this must be someone you have established contact with who has indicated an interest in working with you)
  • Brief essay highlighting your past accomplishments, evidence of creativity and research potential (1-2 pages)
  • Curriculum Vitae / resume

Please consult the Faculty of Graduate Studies for additional information regarding admissions requirements.

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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.

 

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