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Q: Do departments still need to use Standard Bid Document (SBD) forms?
Yes, until the Treasury regulations have been amended and the instructions have been repealed, the SBD Forms remain in place.
Q:What was the reason for taking away the advertising of tenders in the newspapers, tender bulletins and other mediums? We service multiple suppliers from a variety of communities. Why not just keep all mediums available to ensure transparency and access?
It is estimated that R700 million is spent annually on publishing tenders in the various media. Furthermore, it is very difficult for suppliers to be informed of opportunities as they need to monitor various publications. Thirdly, if tender documents are not available electronically, it makes it difficult for suppliers to access tender documentation if they do not have an office close to the relevant government department.
The eTender Publication Portal centralises bid opportunities across government and make bid documents available free of charge. This makes procurement much more transparent. Other publications could also be considered should the need arise, but it should not be the norm, as publication costs needs to come down.
Q:The department has a national tender to publish. If we cannot advertise in any other media – how will we reach all potential suppliers?
All competitive bids and their results, irrespective of the audience, must be published on the eTender Publication Portal. In addition, other publications could also be considered, should the need arise, but it should only be in cases where a specific audience is targeted.
Q: How do we cancel tenders on the eTender Publication Portal?
The Tender Administrator needs to be informed of the tender that needs to be cancelled as well as the reason for the cancellation. Only Tender Administrators can change tender statuses on the eTender Publication Portal.
Q:How exposed is the eTender Publication Portal to the general public? How will they get access? Some find the cost of data too high.
The e-Tender Publication Portal is a website that can be accessed free of charge through any device that has internet connectivity.
Based on the information gathered for the period from October 2015 to April 2016, it is worth noting the following statistics:
Site Activity
∙126 101 people have accessed the portal at least once and more than 61% have returned on a regular basis.
∙The daily access increased from 1 450 visits per day during October 2015 to an average of 3 106 per day during March and April 2016.
∙Mondays and Tuesdays are the most active days, because most publications are published on Fridays. Saturdays and Sundays have very low activity.
∙The site is accessed most: daily between 09:00 and 14:00.
Geospatial Statistics:
∙90.61% of views are by South African suppliers.
∙Kenyan suppliers are the second highest audience with 3.39% views, followed by the United States with 1.22%.
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.