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Q:If people are not responding to tenders, what is Treasury doing about this? (Context: Out of 2 000+ tenders only 200 awarded).
Treasury does not police these matters. However, we encourage departments to add the details when a tender is awarded or cancelled. This allows for data analysis to inform planning.
International suppliers
Q:International suppliers cannot access the portal. How do they find tenders if we are not advertising on our department’s website and in the newspapers?
The eTender Publication Portal is web-based and is accessible anyone, regardless of location, as long as they have internet connectivity.
Q:When we issue tenders in foreign countries, we need to find suppliers in those countries, therefore we need to advertise using other mediums. Will this be a deviation?
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 specific audience are targeted. If bids are not published on the eTender Publication Portal it will be seen as a deviation.
gCommerce
Q: When will the gCommerce site be available for departments to use?
The gCommerce site is already available for voluntary adoption. At present, the solution is being piloted at Correctional Services and the Department of Health. The National Treasury is currently in the process of getting the legal instruments in place to enable the solution in all OoS. For more information, please forward your request to gCommerce@treasury.gov.za.
Q:Does gCommerce use primary and secondary users?No. The creation of users is based on delegation of authority.
Q:On eCommerce you pay by credit card. How are payments effected on gCommerce?Departments must follow their current payment processes and systems. The main aim is to integrate gCommerce with various payment systems such as BAS, Walker, Oracle, Sage etc.
Q:How will purchases on the gCommerce site be handled? With invoice and checkout, do we still manage the suppliers as normal?
gCommerce is integrated with BAS. An approved user can select the goods required and create a purchase order. The system checks budget availability in BAS and work flows to the
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.