WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
Figuring out how to pay for your studies can feel just as daunting as choosing what you’re going to be studying. But it doesn't have to be. Most students combine more than one type of funding to cover tuition, accommodation and everyday costs. The truth is that the earlier you start planning, the more options stay open to you.
Some funding routes have early deadlines. Others depend on where you're applying and what you're applying to study. Getting a clear picture upfront means that you’re in for fewer surprises later.
Sign up to see some funding options based on where you want to study.
YOUR FUNDING OPTIONS
There's isn’t a one-size-fits-all for this topic. Most students end up putting together a combination of the following:
MAKING A PLAN
Waiting until you've been accepted to think about funding puts you on the back foot. If you start earlier, you’ll have time to apply, gather documents and line up a backup plan if your first option falls through.
Generally, no. NSFAS mainly funds public universities and TVET colleges. Some private institutions have specific partnership arrangements, so it's worth checking directly with the institution you're applying to rather than assuming NSFAS will cover it.
A bursary doesn't need to be paid back, though it may come with conditions like maintaining a certain average or working for the funder after graduation. A student loan is borrowed money that you repay with interest, usually after you finish studying.
Yes, and most students do. Combining a bursary or NSFAS with family contributions or a student loan is common. Just check that no funder has rules against being combined with another.
As early as possible, ideally the year before you plan to start studying. Many bursaries and NSFAS applications open months before the academic year begins and have strict deadlines.
It's not the end of the road. Options like student loans, payment plans with your institution or part-time work can help bridge the gap. Sign up to see what's realistic for your situation.