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A large number of problems relate to suppliers not entering the correct information when they register, so a first checkpoint would be to find out if suppliers have entered the correct information.
Q: How do I get access to the support tool and who can use the support tool?
Primary and secondary users can use the support tool. Primary Users automatically receive access to the Support Tool once they receive their access to the CSD. Primary users can grant secondary users access by selecting the support tool role when creating the secondary users.
The support tool will be in the form of a tab called “Support” that will appear on the top right hand side of your screen, with the other tabs, once you have been given access to the support tool.
The support tool function allows practitioners to assist suppliers with logging on and account management queries.
Q: Local suppliers could not complete their registrations. What do they do?
You could assist them by using the support tool. Alternatively, please direct them to call the provincial support centres or go to the walk-in centres. The provincial telephone numbers are on the last page of this document or available on the CSD website under the “Contact us” link.
Q:What assistance does the Treasury provide in communicating with departmental suppliers? Provinces and Departments must take ownership of communication to suppliers in their areas. Treasury has provided campaign material and templates to assist. You can use newspaper, radio, sms and email communication to inform suppliers of the CSD.
Q:We have sent bulk messages to suppliers to register on CSD. How do we check that they are registered?
Organs of state can use the search tool: “Am I Registered?” functionality to check if suppliers are registered.
Can a practitioner search by company name?
Yes, only if they have access to the support tool. When using the search tool, SCM practitioners are only allowed to search based on commodity and location where the commodity is required.
Q:An employee has registered on behalf of the department for the department to be asupplier. Will that employee also be able to search for suppliers?
Yes, the search functionality is available for that employee.
CSD numbers: “R” and “M” numbers
Q:If the CSD supplier number does not show on LOGIS, does it mean the supplier is not registered on the CSD?
No. It merely means that the CSD supplier number is not linked to an existing supplier yet. Please check on CSD using the CSD supplier search function.
Q: When a supplier has an MAAA number, does that mean the supplier has been vetted?
An RAAA number is the reference for registrations in process. An MAAA number means that the supplier has been registered on the CSD, but it does not mean that all supplier information has been vetted. Please do not assume that all verifications have been done – still check on the CSD.
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.