Deactivating your Facebook account is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you deactivate your account on both desktop and mobile devices.
Table of Contents
Deactivating Your Facebook Account on Desktop
- Log In to Facebook
- Open your web browser and go to Facebook.
- Log in with your username and password.
- Access Account Settings
- Click on the Account icon (downward-facing triangle) in the top-right corner of the Facebook page.
- Select Settings & privacy from the dropdown menu.
- Click on Settings.
- Navigate to Your Facebook Information
- In the left-hand menu, click on Your Facebook Information.
- Deactivate Your Account
- Click on Deactivation and Deletion.
- Select Deactivate Account and then click on Continue to Account Deactivation.
- Confirm Deactivation
- Facebook will ask you to provide a reason for deactivating your account. Choose a reason from the list provided.
- You may be given the option to opt-out of receiving emails from Facebook. If you do not wish to receive emails, check the box.
- Click on Deactivate to confirm.
Deactivating Your Facebook Account on Mobile
Using the Facebook App
- Open the Facebook App
- Launch the Facebook app on your smartphone or tablet.
- Access Menu
- Tap on the Menu icon (three horizontal lines) located in the bottom-right corner (iOS) or top-right corner (Android).
- Go to Settings & Privacy
- Scroll down and tap on Settings & Privacy.
- Tap on Settings.
- Your Facebook Information
- Scroll down to the Your Facebook Information section.
- Tap on Account Ownership and Control.
- Deactivate Your Account
- Tap on Deactivation and Deletion.
- Select Deactivate Account and then tap on Continue to Account Deactivation.
- Confirm Deactivation
- Provide a reason for deactivating your account when prompted.
- You may choose to opt-out of receiving emails from Facebook by checking the appropriate box.
- Tap on Deactivate to confirm.
Important Notes
- Temporary Deactivation: Deactivating your account is temporary. Your profile will be hidden, and people won’t be able to search for you, but your information will not be deleted. You can reactivate your account at any time by logging back in.
- Messenger: If you use Facebook Messenger, deactivating your account will not deactivate Messenger. You will need to deactivate Messenger separately if you do not want to use it.
- Data Preservation: Deactivation does not delete your data. If you want to permanently delete your account and all its data, you will need to select the “Delete Account” option instead of “Deactivate Account.”
By following these steps, you can successfully deactivate your Facebook account, giving you a break from the social network while preserving your data for future use if you decide to return.
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.