The idea of a student loan may seem intimidating but researching your options will put your mind at ease and help you make an informed decision.
You can choose from a range of public and private entities.
The institutions listed below could make higher education possible through their student loan and financial scheme options.
Each entity or loan agreement has its own set of terms and conditions so a thorough investigation of application requirements and loan repayment methods is necessary.
Here are some options to help finance your studies:
Universities
The university financial aid office is a good place to start.
However you can only apply for assistance at a university once you have applied or enrolled there.
Most universities offer grants to students with excellent academic or sporting ability.
Check with your university’s financial aid office to find out if you qualify for their bursaries or awards.
Public Institutions
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS)
NSFAS is a government funded institution that offers loans to South African students wanting to study at public universities or technikons.
Up to 40% of the loan can be written off if the student is academically successful enough.
You can apply for NSFAS assistance at a university or technikon Financial Aid Bureau.
Tel: 021 763 3232
visit http://www.nsfas.org.za/
National Research Foundation (NRF)
The NRF provides services and grants to support research and postgraduate research training that is vital to the development of South Africa.
The NRF’s task is to advance research in all fields of the humanities, social and natural sciences, engineering, and technology; including indigenous knowledge, and will support researchers in these fields.
Tel: 012 481 4000
Visit the NRF website for more information
Private institutions
Eduloan
Eduloan offers financing at all levels of study including school, university and college.
The loan offering can cover outstanding balances, registration fees and study related items such as textbooks, laptops, tablets, accommodation and other relevant study equipment.
Tel: 0860 55 55 44
Visit the Eduloan website for more information
Banks
Banks and private financial institutions are often more flexible with their qualifying criteria and are better equipped to offer personalised loan options.
For example banks are more likely to cover your studies at a private institution as well as public educational facilities.
However interest rates and repayment conditions on bank loans are generally more stringent.
Make sure that you are clear on the terms and conditions before you agree to the loan.
Absa
An Absa loan covers SETA and SAQA accredited studies that are three months or longer.
Customers are also allowed to apply for a grace period after they have finished studying if they are not yet able to afford the repayment of their loan.
Visit the Absa website for more information
Standard Bank
Student loans are granted for a specific year of study and you will have to reapply for each year of registration.
You can use the money from your student loan to pay for your tuition fees and accommodation (if you are a full-time student not living at home).
The course and institution that you choose for your studies must be accredited by at least one of the following bodies SAQA, SETA; Umalusi; or the Department of Higher Education (DHE)
Visit the Standard Bank website
Nedbank
Your Nedbank student loan will cover costs for tuition fees, accommodation, books and study-related equipment.
Nedbank offers competitive interest rates and flexible repayment terms, during and after completion of studies.
There are varying options for full time, part-time or postgraduate students.
Visit the Nedbank website