Oldrin Masowa

The lack of finances remains a stumbling block in accessing tertiary education, particularly in South Africa.

This is why the North-West University (NWU) partnered with Standard Bank in launching a Standard Bank student loan to assist undergraduate and postgraduate NWU students to finance their 2023 studies.

What makes this student loan different, is that eligible students can apply without providing surety.

Only learners from families who have a gross household income of R600 000 per year or less are eligible to apply, and preference will be given to students who are studying towards science, technology, engineering, mathematics, commerce and health sciences.

The maximum loan amount is R120 000 and can be used for accommodation, study fees, books and other study equipment. Students can also use the loan to repay up to R80 000 of outstanding university debt from their previous years of study, which might be preventing them from completing their studies.

Zodwa Chabe from Standard Bank believes this a great opportunity for students to fulfill their educational dreams.

“Students do not have to be a Standard Bank customer to qualify for this loan. Our aim is to uplift our communities and to help students to realise their dreams through education,” says Zodwa.

“One of the great aspects of this loan is that students are only eligible to repay the loan six months after the completion of their studies and upon finding employment,” she adds.

To apply for the bursary, students can go to any Standard Bank branch or visit the bank’s website to apply online.

Standard bank also offers various graduate programmes – interested students can visit the Standard Bank website at www.standardbank.co.za or any of the branches for more information.