How do I check whether a company or business is registered with ACRA?
Answer:
To check whether a business is registered with ACRA,
1) visit BizFile+
2) Key in the business name or UEN in the search bar on the top right-hand corner.
If it is a registered entity, you will see the entity name and Unique Entity Number (UEN) in the search results.
Table of Contents
What Is the ACRA Company Name Search Tool?
To register with ACRA, first, you need to do an ACRA company search. If you already have a business name in mind and would like to check if it is available in Singapore, you can use our ACRA Company Search tool above.
Why Is the ACRA Entity Name Search Tool Important?
Using the ACRA Search tool is important as it helps you to:
- Quickly identify if your preferred company name is available
- Compare other companies with similar names and avoid copyright issues
- Simplify the company name reservation process
What makes a company name valid by ACRA Singapore?
While you are in the process of choosing a valid name for your company, do note that to get your preferred company name approved, you should ensure that:
- It is not identical to the name of a registered company
- It is not currently reserved by someone else
- It is not inappropriate or offensive (refrain from including obscene or religious names)
- It does not include gazetted names (“Temasek” is not allowed in Singapore)
- It does not include words such as “Academy”, “College”, “Institute”, “Institution”, “University”; and “National”, “Singapore”.
You should also check that there are no trademarks associated with your preferred company name.
How Do I Create a Unique Company Name that will Approved by ACRA?
If your preferred name is rejected by ACRA, here are some tips to help you enhance and differentiate your core company name:
- Add distinguishing words or features to your core business name
- Add your scope of services to your business name
E.g. add “hospitality” or “hotel” - Use symbols
E.g. “+” to replace “plus”
Please note that the following attempts at differentiating your name will not be accepted by ACRA:
- Adding “The” to the start of your preferred name
- Adding business entity type to the end of your preferred name e.g. “Pte Ltd”, “Ltd”
- Adding countries and regions to the end of your name e.g. “Singapore”, “Asia Pacific”, “International”
- Using the plural version of the name
My Company Name is Available, What’s Next?
Once you’ve registered your name on ACRA, and it has been approved, your next step would be to incorporate your company!
The process of setting up a company in Singapore can be completed within a day if you have all of your documents ready.
Related Resources
Student Loans in South Africa: How to Apply and What to Expect
For many young South Africans, accessing higher education is a dream that often comes with a financial challenge. Fortunately, several student loan optionsstrong> are available in South Africa to help fund university, college, or TVET studies. Whether you’re looking for a government loan like NSFAS or a private student loan from a bank, understanding the process is essential for success.
What Are Student Loans?
Student loans are a form of financial aid provided to eligible students to help cover tuition fees, books, accommodation, and other study-related expenses. In South Africa, these loans can come from government institutions like NSFAS or private banks such as Nedbank, Standard Bank, FNB, and Absa. Most loans offer repayment flexibility and low-interest options until you graduate.
Types of Student Loans in South Africa
- NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme): A government-funded loan/grant program for students from low-income households. Covers tuition, housing, transport, and meals.
- Bank Student Loans: Offered by most major banks. These are credit-based and require a guardian or parent as a co-signer.
- Private Loan Providers: Companies like Fundi offer educational loans covering various costs such as school fees, gadgets, and textbooks.
Requirements to Qualify for a Student Loan
Each provider has its own criteria, but most South African student loans require the following:
- Proof of South African citizenship or permanent residency
- Proof of registration or acceptance at a recognised tertiary institution
- Parent or guardian with a stable income to co-sign (for private loans)
- Completed application form with supporting documents (ID, proof of income, academic records)
How to Apply for a Student Loan
To apply for a student loan in South Africa, follow these steps:
- Identify your loan provider: Choose between NSFAS, a bank, or a private lender.
- Gather necessary documents: ID copies, academic transcripts, acceptance letters, and income statements.
- Complete the application form online or at a branch.
- Await approval: Some banks offer instant decisions, while NSFAS can take a few weeks.
- Receive disbursement: Funds are typically paid directly to the institution or your account, depending on the lender.
Loan Amounts and Repayment
The loan amount you can receive depends on your chosen lender and financial need:
- NSFAS: Covers full tuition, residence, books, and a personal allowance. The loan becomes a bursary if you pass all your courses.
- Banks: Can provide up to R120,000 or more annually, depending on tuition costs and credit history.
Repayment usually starts after graduation or once you start earning an income. Bank loans may require interest-only payments during your studies. NSFAS repayment only begins when you earn above a specific income threshold.
FAQs on Student Loans in South Africa
1. Can I apply for a student loan without a parent or guardian?
For government loans like NSFAS, yes. But most banks require a financially responsible co-signer, especially for students without an income.
2. Is NSFAS a loan or a bursary?
NSFAS starts as a loan, but it converts to a bursary if you meet academic performance requirements. This means you may not have to pay it back.
3. What is the interest rate on student loans?
Private banks offer competitive rates between 5% and 12%, depending on the applicant's credit profile. NSFAS charges a much lower interest rate, usually linked to inflation.
4. What happens if I fail my courses?
If you’re funded by NSFAS and fail, your loan won’t convert into a bursary, and you’ll need to repay the full amount. Banks may continue charging interest, and your co-signer may be held liable.
5. Can I use a student loan to pay for accommodation and laptops?
Yes. Both NSFAS and many bank student loans cover costs beyond tuition, including housing, meals, textbooks, and electronic devices like laptops or tablets.
Final Thoughts
Student loans in South Africa offer a much-needed financial lifeline to thousands of students every year. Whether you're applying through **NSFAS** or a private bank, ensure you understand the **terms, interest rates, and repayment conditions** before signing any agreement. Make informed decisions today to secure your academic and financial future tomorrow.