Fees
Should you wish to apply for a bursary or are waiting for feedback on a bursary
application, please indicate yourself as the person responsible for paying
the fees, as the student always remains liable for the fees should the person
responsible for the fees neglect to pay.
The difference after minimum payments is due within three months after
registration. Any account outstanding for more than 90 days will incur
interest at prime + 3%.
Where applicable, tuition fees exclude the costs of the External Integrated
Summative Assessment (EISA) conducted by the QCTO (Quality Council for
Trades and Occupations). These fees are determined by the QCTO on an
annual basis.
Accommodation fees quoted are for the duration of tuition. Additional fees
may be charged for extended stay and accommodation relating to
examinations conducted outside of the tuition period.
Academic registration for the next academic period will only be allowed if the
full amount for the previous registration period has been settled.
Cancellation Policy
Tuition Fees:
Students or their legal guardians must give notice of intention to cancel the application or discontinue studies in writing by completing the relevant form that can be obtained from adminoffice@hugenote.com
The student and person indicated as responsible for fees will be liable for the following depending on when cancellation is received.
Description Deductible fee before a refund
Before registration – Administration fee R1 500.00
After registration before the commencement
of classes R3 000.00
Within 21 (twenty-one) days of the official
programme registration date 50% of the deposit
After 21 (twenty-one) days of the official
programme registration date
Full term fee payable on cancellation
Accommodation Fees:
Students or their legal guardians must give written notification to the College of
their intent to cancel the agreement.
The student and person indicated as responsible for fees will be liable for the
following depending on when cancellation is received.
Description Deductible fee before a refund
Before registration (after the deposit is paid
and the room allocated) – Administration fee R1 500.00
Within 21 (twenty-one) days of the official
programme registration date 100% of the deposit
After 21 (twenty-one) days of the official
programme registration date
Full accommodation fees
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.