University of Stellenbosch Bursary Department

Embarking on your undergraduate journey at Stellenbosch University ushers you into a sphere where technological innovation meets academic excellence. Our campus is not only a hub of cutting-edge facilities but also a sanctuary of learning that offers a diverse array of Bachelor’s degree programs, predominantly taught in Afrikaans. Mastery of Afrikaans is thus beneficial to fully immerse in the undergraduate experience.

We are confident that your time with us will be intellectually enriching, equipping you with the essential skills to navigate the professional world effectively.

Bursaries and Financial Aid: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Delve into Part 2 of the Bursary Calendar to identify which financial aids you are eligible for.
2. Specify your chosen bursaries on the application form’s Page 1 (Section C).
3. Upon receiving a bursary loan, a Promissory Note and a Deed of Suretyship must be executed. These documents are to be collected after registration and returned to the Bursaries and Loans Office in Admin Block A by April 30th.

Eligibility Criteria for Financial Support

• Financial aid is reserved for South African nationals based on both academic achievements and financial need.

Academic prerequisites:

• A minimum two-thirds credit pass rate is mandatory for financial aid consideration.

Financial parameters:

• Financial need is assessed based on ineligibility for bank loans or inability to contribute financially towards education.

Appropriate Use of Financial Assistance

Funds are allocated specifically for tuition, on-campus or approved private accommodation, meal plans, and textbooks. They are not applicable for travel expenses, equipment, stationery, society memberships, or gym fees.

Merit Bursary Allocation

First-year students:

• An 80% average (excluding Life Orientation) in Grade 12 finals may qualify you for a merit bursary.
• Rebates are scaled based on percentages, starting at a minimum of 33% for the 80-84.9% bracket.

Note for pre-2008 matriculants:

• An 85% final Grade 12 average is required for merit bursary eligibility.

Current students:

• A weighted average of 75% or above may qualify returning students for a merit bursary, with the percentage of tuition rebate increasing in tandem with the average achieved.

SU Bursary Loans

• Determined through a financial means test, SU bursary loans range from R2,000 to R38,000 at a reduced interest rate.
• The repayment period mirrors the duration of receipt and commences post-graduation.
• A portion of the loan may be converted to a bursary based on credit completion rate.

International Qualifications and Applications

• The evaluation of international qualifications falls under the Postgraduate and International Office, which then forwards recommendations to the respective Faculties.
• Applicants must submit a complete application pack, including predicted or most recent results if final scores are not available.

Important Application Deadlines

• May 31: Health Sciences (with access tests in June/July)
• June 30: Other selective programs and university residence consideration
• September 30: Non-selective programs

While digital applications are encouraged, paper submissions remain valid. Request an application form via email from info@sun.ac.za.

For additional details, please explore www.sun.ac.za. Here, you’ll find all you need to know to prepare for a transformative educational adventure at Stellenbosch University.