1. HOW TO APPLY
• All applicants i.e., Undergraduates, Postgraduates, South African and International applicants are to apply online
2. INSTRUCTION ON ONLINE APPLICATION PROCESS
• All applicants are to apply online on www.univen.ac.za website.
• To apply online, you should be having a South African Identify number; Passport Number for Internationals, Ten digits Cell phone number and an email address
• During online application process, you may save and return at a later stage to complete the application.
• Applicant will be required to create a 5-digit pin
• Complete your application by pressing “Submit button”
• You will then get a student number (NB: you must keep your student number safe for future enquires with the University)
• Complete your application and upload the required documents.
• After successful submission and completion of your online application, you can log into My access page to access / view your application details.
3. STEPS FOR UPLOADING DOCUMENTS:
3.1. Documents must be scanned in PDF format.
3.2. Documents to be uploaded if available
o A copy of I.D./Passport document
o Matric certificate/Statement of Results/Grade 11/12 report
o Transcript of academic record and certificate of conduct
o Degree(s)/Diploma certificates
o SAQA Evaluation Certificate (If you are an international applicant)
3.3. Going to My Access Portal
3.4. Login as a Student using student Number and Pin
Go to Student Enquiry, then
3.5. Go to Certificate Seen
3.6. Choose the type of document you want to upload and
3.7. Click on Load/View Document and upload the document.
4. PAYMENT PROCESS FOR ONLINE APPLICATION
Step 1: Amount to be paid: R100-00
Step 2: Click on the option which says “pay by credit card” for payment by credit or cheque card.
Step 3: Enter the following credit/cheque card details
o Card Number
o Card Holder Name
o Expiry date: Months and Year
o CVV Numbers: the last three digits at the back of the card
Step 4: Click on PAY NOW
Step 5: You will get a screen which says, “Authentication is required for the purchase”. From this screen there will be a message saying:
o To proceed with your purchase, please submit the One Time Password (OTP) that has been sent to your cell phone.
o Enter the One Time Password (OTP) on the space provided and click NEXT
Step 6: You will get a screen with the following message: Successful E Payment, press exit. You will immediately receive a payment receipt notification from the Univen support via email address you provided stated as follows “Thank you we have received your application fee. You can return to the Online application web page and continue your application”.
5. APPLICANTS WHO EXPERIENCE CHALLENGES WITH ONLINE APPLICATION
Applicants (undergraduate/postgraduate/international applicants) who experience challenges when applying online, the following arrangements have been made to ensure that they apply and have their applications processed.
• Applicants can download applications from the Web, complete and personally submit hard copies of application forms to: University of Venda; New Student Administration Building; Cubicles Number – 1 or 2 or 3.
• We will accept hard copies of application forms sent through post.
The forms can be sent to the following address:
▪ University of Venda, New Student Administration Building, Student Admissions, Private Bag X 5050, Thohoyandou, 0950.
▪ Application enquiries can be sent to any of the following officials:
• Mulidzi Fhatuwani – 015 962 8959 fhatuwani.mulidzi@univen.ac.za
• Muthevhuli Alvinah – 015 962 8953
• Nengwekhulu Mishumo – 015 962 8954 mishumo.nengwekhulu@univen.ac.za
Click here to start the application process
Table of Contents
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.