A number of private and public institutions of higher learning have an offering of Higher Certificate courses.
The University of Johannesburg has an offering of Higher Certificate courses in various fields, including Accounting Sciences and Animal Welfare.
A private institution, MANCOSA prides itself in offering internationally accredited distance learning Higher Certificates at affordable rates in diverse fields of study.
Higher Certificate courses are beneficial, as they provide an opportunity for individuals to acquire skills and knowledge in a specific field, which can enhance their employability.
They also offer a pathway to further studies, including diploma and degree programmes.
If you are considering registering for this qualification, you may want to consider looking at the funding options that you may take advantage of should you not have the finances to realise your dreams.
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) covers a wide range of courses offered in institutions of higher learning but with a few exceptions.
Fortunately, the government bursary scheme does financially support qualifying Higher Certificate students who are pursuing their studies through one of South Africa’s public institutions of higher learning.
The Scheme helps students pay for their tertiary education by covering costs such as tuition fees, study material allowances, etc.
If you’ll be enrolled for this qualification through a university, here are the requirements:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must be applying or accepted at a University
- SASSA grant recipients immediately qualify
- Must have a household income below R350 000 per year
- If you're a person living with a disability, your household income must come to R600 000 or less
If you’ll opt for a Technical and Vocational Education and Training college, the NSFAS qualifying criteria are the same.
Is NSFAS Still A Loan?
NSFAS is a government entity that falls under the Department of Higher Education and Training which offers financial support to students who do not have the means to pay for their studies at tertiary institutions.
For many years, the Scheme operated as a student until December 2017, and the government made sure that it brings change by converting it into a bursary scheme as of 2018.
