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appropriate manager for approval. Once approved, the order is sent to the supplier. Payment is done using the current payment systems.
Q: Can you lease items on the gCommerce site?
Yes, all transversal items will be available on the gCommerce site.
Q: How do authorisations work on gCommerce?
Authorisations are enabled through workflow and are customised for each OoS, based on their internal policies.
Q: Are the suppliers on gCommerce the same as those on CSD?
Yes, all suppliers to government must be registered and compliant suppliers on the CSD.
Q:Do suppliers on gCommerce get notification of orders made? Yes, an email is sent with the approved purchase order.
Q:Does gCommerce interface with the procurement system?gCommerce currently does not interface with any procurement system.
Q: How are the budgets linked to gCommerce?
gCommerce currently only integrates to BAS to verify budget availability, based on SCOA line items identified in the online procurement process. If no funds are available, the process can’t continue. For OoS that do not make use of BAS, manual verification needs to take place.
Q: When will gCommerce be linked to LOGIS and other transversal systems?
gCommerce is a separate e-procurement system for transversal contracts. It integrates directly with BAS and payments and receipts are initiated from it.
Q: On other systems, payment is by credit card. How will we pay on gCommerce?
No payments will be made via credit card. Departments will process payments by using their current payment systems like BAS.
Q: How will delegations of authority be managed on the gCommerce system?
Departments will stipulate delegations. These will be included when the user profiles are created.
Q: We already have transversal contracts. Why the need for gCommerce?
gCommerce is technology used to manage transversal contracts. It automates paperwork for you. Your work still needs to be done by yourself. It also assists with production planning. LOGIS and gCommerce are integrated. You still use BAS to pay. There are still a few technical issues with these integrations.
Q:How does the gCommerce solution manage the department plans for each department?The gCommerce solution does not cater for demand plans. However, departmental allocations are discussed at transversal contract management for each contract. This includes prices as well as quantities.
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.