Boland College Bursary

This blog will provide you with everything you need to know about the bursary options at Boland College, including how to apply, required documentation, and essential contact information.

What is a Boland College Bursary?

A bursary is a form of financial assistance that helps students cover the cost of tuition, accommodation, and other essential expenses related to their studies. At Boland College, bursaries are primarily available through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) and other external funding options, such as grants from Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs).

These bursaries aim to support students who have the potential to excel academically but lack the financial means to pursue their dreams.

Types of Bursaries Available at Boland College

Boland College offers the following types of bursaries to students:

  1. NSFAS Bursaries
    • The primary source of financial aid for TVET college students.
    • Covers tuition fees, accommodation, transportation, and other essential living expenses.
    • Applications for the 2025 academic year are open from 28 September 2024 to 31 January 2025.
  2. External Funding from SETAs
    • Boland College helps students apply for available funding from SETAs (Sector Education and Training Authorities) in South Africa.
    • These opportunities are often based on industry needs and targeted at students pursuing specific career paths.
    • Students are advised to visit their Financial Aid Office regularly for updates on SETA funding.
  3. Other Financial Options
    • Students may also explore other private bursaries or scholarships outside of Boland College’s internal support system.

How to Apply for a Boland College Bursary (NSFAS)

If you’re planning to apply for a Boland College bursary via NSFAS, follow these steps to ensure a smooth application process.

Step 1: Create a MyNSFAS Account

  1. Visit the NSFAS website at www.nsfas.org.za.
  2. Click on “Create MyNSFAS Account”.
  3. Fill in your personal information, including your email and phone number.
  4. Submit and verify your details.

Step 2: Submit Your Application Online

  1. Log into your MyNSFAS account.
  2. Complete the online application form.
  3. Upload all the required documents (listed below).
  4. Review and submit your application.

Step 3: Track Your Application

  • After submitting your application, you can log into your MyNSFAS account to track the progress of your bursary application.
  • If you’re approved, you’ll need to submit an application for allowances (for transport, private accommodation, or living expenses) at the Boland College Financial Aid Office.

Required Documents for a Boland College Bursary Application

When applying for a bursary through NSFAS, you’ll need to provide the following documents:

  • Copy of your ID or Birth Certificate.
  • ID copies of parent(s), guardian(s), or spouse (if applicable).
  • Both sides of a Smart ID card (if applicable).
  • Proof of household income (payslips, grant receipts, etc.).
  • Disability Annexure A form (for students with disabilities).
  • Vulnerable Child Declaration form (if you’re recognized as a vulnerable child by the Department of Social Development).
  • Declaration: Non-SASSA form (if you do not have certain family member details).

⚠️ Important Note: The system may generate additional requirements for you to upload, depending on the information you provide during your application. Double-check that all required documents are uploaded to avoid delays.

How Does NSFAS Support Boland College Students?

If you’re approved for an NSFAS bursary, you’ll receive financial support for the following:

  • Tuition fees: Fully covered.
  • Accommodation: Costs are covered if you’re staying in student accommodation or private housing.
  • Transport: A monthly transport allowance is provided if you live off-campus.
  • Living allowance: Covers your daily living expenses, including meals.

Once approved, students must visit the Boland College Financial Aid Office to submit their allowance applications.

When Are NSFAS Applications Open for Boland College Bursary 2025?

The NSFAS bursary applications for the 2025 academic year are open from 28 September 2024 to 31 January 2025. It is crucial to apply as early as possible to avoid delays and secure your funding on time.

How Boland College Supports Students with External Funding

Apart from NSFAS, Boland College offers guidance to students seeking external funding from SETAs. These bursaries may have different eligibility criteria, so it’s essential to stay in touch with the Financial Aid Office.

Boland College encourages students to apply for SETA funding in fields aligned with South Africa’s skills shortage areas, increasing their chances of receiving financial support.

Overview of Public Universities in South Africa

Here's an overview of some public universities in South Africa, including general admissions requirements and estimated application periods. Keep in mind, specific program requirements and dates can vary significantly, so it's important to check each university's official website for the most current information.

University of Pretoria

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with minimum scores in specific subjects related to the chosen program; for international students, equivalent qualifications.
  • Application Period: Usually opens in March and closes at the end of July for most programs.

University of Cape Town

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with pass levels required for degree study; subject-specific requirements depending on the program.
  • Application Period: Application opens in April and closes at the end of July.

Stellenbosch University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required marks; some programs have additional testing.
  • Application Period: Opens in March and typically closes at the end of June.

University of the Witwatersrand

  • Admissions Requirements: Matriculation certificate with university exemption; required scores vary by faculty.
  • Application Period: Begins in March and ends on the 30th of September.

University of Johannesburg

  • Admissions Requirements: Matric exemption with a minimum APS score; specific subject requirements based on the faculty.
  • Application Period: Opens in April and generally closes by the 30th of September.

University of the Free State

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific marks for the program applied to; additional requirements for certain courses.
  • Application Period: Typically opens in April and closes at the end of August.

University of Venda

  • Admissions Requirements: Completion of the National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for diploma or degree studies; specific APS scores needed.
  • Application Period: Usually from May to September.

University of Fort Hare

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; certain programs may have specific requirements.
  • Application Period: Opens around May and closes at the end of September.

University of the Western Cape

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific performance levels; additional requirements for certain programs.
  • Application Period: Generally from May to September.

North-West University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; program-specific requirements may apply.
  • Application Period: Opens in March and usually closes by the end of August.

Rhodes University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate or equivalent; minimum academic performance in certain subjects.
  • Application Period: Applications open in April and close at the end of September.

Nelson Mandela University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; portfolio or additional tests for some faculties.
  • Application Period: Opens in April, with a deadline at the end of August for most programs.

Cape Peninsula University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores; additional requirements for certain courses.
  • Application Period: Opens in May and typically closes by the end of September.

University of Limpopo

  • Admissions Requirements: Senior Certificate with endorsement for diploma or degree courses; specific APS scores for different programs.
  • Application Period: From April to September.

University of Zululand

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for bachelor’s degree studies; specific score requirements for various programs.
  • Application Period: Usually between April and November.

Central University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores for the chosen field of study; additional criteria for certain programs.
  • Application Period: Application period generally starts in May and ends in October.

Vaal University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with a pass that qualifies for admission to bachelor’s degree, diploma, or higher certificate programs.
  • Application Period: Typically from May to September.

Walter Sisulu University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; additional criteria for certain faculties.
  • Application Period: From April to September.

This list provides a starting point for understanding the admissions landscape across South Africa's diverse higher education institutions. Given the variability in programs and requirements, it's crucial to consult each university's website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.