The Accenture Education Trust Scholarship 2024 offers a unique opportunity for academically promising students in South Africa to pursue their higher education dreams. This scholarship program aims to provide financial assistance and various forms of support to deserving individuals who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to making a positive impact in their communities. The Accenture Education Trust, helps students whose family income ranges from R 350 000 - R 1M and NSFAS Post-Graduate Students with a Household Income of less than R300k.

About Accenture

Accenture plc is a multinational professional services company that provides a wide range of services and solutions in the areas of strategy, consulting, digital, technology, and operations. It is one of the largest consulting firms in the world, with a global presence and a diverse client base across various industries.

Founded in 1989 and headquartered in Dublin, Ireland, Accenture operates in more than 200 cities in over 120 countries. The company serves clients in industries such as financial services, healthcare, communications, media, technology, consumer goods, and many others.

Accenture offers services that help organizations improve their performance, transform their operations, and achieve their business objectives. These services include management consulting, technology consulting, digital transformation, application services, infrastructure services, cybersecurity, and outsourcing. The company's workforce is comprised of highly skilled professionals, including consultants, analysts, engineers, designers, and technology specialists. Accenture's teams collaborate with clients to solve complex challenges, develop innovative strategies, implement advanced technologies, and drive organizational change.

Accenture has a strong focus on digital technologies and is at the forefront of digital transformation initiatives. It helps clients leverage emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, cloud computing, data analytics, blockchain, and the Internet of Things (IoT) to create new business models, enhance customer experiences, and drive operational efficiencies. As a publicly traded company, Accenture is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) under the ticker symbol "ACN." It has consistently been recognized as one of the world's most admired companies and a leading employer, known for its inclusive and diverse work environment.

What are the minimum requirements?

The student must have a strong academic background with a cumulative average of above 65% in a study towards Technology-aligned degrees (see below list) at select tertiary Institutions in South Africa. If you have food grades and are in your second to final year of study and even Honours year of your studies, you are what they are looking for!

Successful candidates will receive a full scholarship. The bursary programme covers the following expenses: registration fees, tuition fees, examination fees, meals, residence, book allowance for prescribed books and a laptop. In addition, the scholarship is backed up by ongoing mentorship.

Applications will be considered from students who wish to major in one of the following disciplines at one of the universities listed below.

Scholarship Disciplines

·         BSC

·         Computer Science

·         Computer Engineering

·         Industrial Engineering

·         Information and Knowledge Systems

·         Information Systems

·         Mechanical with Mechatronics Engineering

·         BSC (Eng)

·         Information Technology

·         Electronic /Electrical (Light Current)

BCOM

·         Informatics

·         Information Systems

·         Stats and Data Science

·         Computer Science

·         DATA ENGINEERING

·         Big Data Analytics

·         Post Graduate Diploma in Data Analytics and Business Intelligence

·         BENG

·         Electronic or Electrical Comp Eng

·         Information Engineering

·         Micro Electronic Engineering

Applicable institutions 

·         Rhodes University

·         Stellenbosch University

·         University of Cape Town

·         University of Johannesburg

·         University of Pretoria

·         University of Witwatersrand

·         University of Kwazulu-Natal

·         University of Western Cape

Documents required:

·         Certified copy of identity document (Application Pre-requisite)

·         Certified full academic record including 2022 mid-year exam results/progress report (Application Pre-requisite)

·         Certified copy of grade 12 results (Application Pre-requisite)

·         Certified copy of proof of parents’/guardian’s earnings 

·         Copy of your curriculum vitae (Application Pre-requisite)

Application Steps

·         Step 1 - Register/ Create an account by using your email address and create a password.

·         Step 2 - Start application. Please choose Apply Manually.

·         Step 3 - You will land on the My Information page. Please populate all fields and note that family name is your surname.

·         Step 4 - You will land on the My Experience page. In this section kindly detail any part time work experience i.e. Tutoring, promotions, e.t.c. Please note that GPA indicates academic average

·         Step 5 - You will land on Application Questions. These are standard and only for the purpose of the scholarship application please answer these as follows: Q1 - Yes; Q2 - No; Q3- Yes; Q4 - Yes; and Q5 -No.

·         Step 6 - You will land on a Voluntary Disclosure page. Here, complete all the required fields

·         Step 7 - You will land on a Summary Page where you can view your application and click Submit to finalize your submission

You will also be required to answer 10 questions. One of the questions /requirements is to create a 2-minute film about yourself. They want to know why you chose your field of study, your majors, what subjects you enjoy the most, what you'd like to do next, and why Accenture should pick you.

For any queries, contact +27 11 208 3216.

Click here to apply. 

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a crucial entity in South Africa that aims to provide financial support to students who are unable to afford tertiary education. Its mission is to promote equal access to education and empower individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds. However, being defunded by NSFAS can be a daunting experience for any student. This essay delves into the reasons for being defunded, offering advice on navigating this challenging situation and providing contact details for NSFAS. While the defunding may seem discouraging, it is important to remember that setbacks can be overcome, and success is still within reach.

Reasons for Defunding by NSFAS:

·    Academic Performance: One common reason for defunding is inadequate academic progress. NSFAS sets certain academic requirements to ensure that recipients of their aid are making satisfactory progress in their studies. Failing to meet these requirements, such as maintaining a specific grade point average or completing a certain number of credits, may result in defunding.

·    Income Discrepancies: NSFAS takes into account the financial status of applicants when determining eligibility for funding. If there are discrepancies or changes in the reported income, such as an increase in household income or failure to disclose additional sources of income, it can lead to defunding.

·    Course Change: NSFAS allocates funds based on the chosen field of study. If a student decides to change their course or program without prior approval from NSFAS, it can result in defunding. It is crucial to communicate any changes in academic plans to NSFAS to ensure continued funding.

·    Exceeding Maximum Timeframe: NSFAS provides financial aid for a specified duration, typically the minimum time required to complete a qualification plus one year. If a student exceeds this timeframe without a valid reason, NSFAS may choose to defund them.

·    Unfulfilled Responsibilities: Failure to comply with NSFAS requirements, such as not submitting required documentation, not attending mandatory meetings, or not participating in academic support programs, can lead to defunding. It is important to meet all obligations set by NSFAS to maintain funding.

How to deal with being defunded:

·    Communication is Key: If you have been defunded by NSFAS, reach out to them immediately to understand the reasons for the decision. Open and honest communication can help resolve any misunderstandings or address issues that led to the defunding.

·    Appeal the status of rejection should there be an option to appeal (see more information on how to appeal below).

·    Seek Academic Support: If the reason for defunding is related to academic performance, consult with academic advisors, tutors, or professors to develop an improvement plan. They can guide you toward the necessary resources and strategies to enhance your academic progress.

·    Explore Alternative Funding Options: While NSFAS is a significant source of financial aid, it is not the only option available. Investigate other scholarship programs, bursaries, part-time employment opportunities, or student loans that may help bridge the financial gap.

·    Financial Planning: Develop a comprehensive budgeting plan to manage your finances effectively. Identify areas where you can cut expenses, prioritize essential expenditures, and explore potential income-generating activities.

How to Appeal NSFAS decision:

If you have been defunded by NSFAS and believe that there are valid reasons for an appeal, you can follow these steps to appeal the decision:

·    Understand the Appeals Process: Familiarize yourself with NSFAS's appeals process by visiting their website or contacting their helpline. Understand the criteria for eligibility to appeal and the required documentation for the appeal.

·    Gather Relevant Information: Collect all the necessary information and documents to support your appeal. This may include academic records, medical certificates (if applicable), proof of financial circumstances, and any other supporting evidence that explains the reasons for your defunding or demonstrates your eligibility for continued funding.

·    Write a Formal Appeal Letter: Craft a well-structured appeal letter addressed to NSFAS, stating your intention to appeal the defunding decision. In the letter, clearly explain the reasons for the appeal and provide supporting evidence. Be concise, polite, and professional in your communication.

·    Submit the Appeal Letter and Supporting Documents: Send your appeal letter along with all the relevant supporting documents to NSFAS through the designated channel. Ensure that you meet the specified deadline for appeals and follow the submission instructions carefully.

·    Follow Up: After submitting your appeal, keep track of its progress by maintaining regular contact with NSFAS. You can do this through their helpline or by sending follow-up emails to inquire about the status of your appeal. Stay proactive and persistent in your communication.

·    Seek Guidance: If you encounter any difficulties or have questions regarding the appeals process, don't hesitate to seek guidance from your institution's financial aid office or student support services. They may provide additional assistance and advice on navigating the appeals process.

Remember to be patient throughout the appeals process, as it may take some time for NSFAS to review and respond to your appeal. Keep copies of all the documents you submit and any correspondence with NSFAS for your records.

Here is an additional section that includes a list of other national bursaries and student loans available to students in South Africa:

·    Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme: This program aims to provide bursaries to students who wish to pursue a teaching qualification. It covers tuition fees, accommodation, and a monthly stipend. Visit their website at www.funzalushaka.doe.gov.za for more information.

·    South African Reserve Bank Bursary Scheme: The South African Reserve Bank offers bursaries to students studying in the fields of economics, finance, and accounting. These bursaries cover tuition fees, accommodation, and a yearly living allowance. Check their website at www.resbank.co.za for application details.

·    Department of Water and Sanitation Bursary Programme: This program provides bursaries to students studying in water-related fields, such as engineering, hydrology, and environmental science. It covers tuition fees, accommodation, and a monthly stipend. Visit www.dwa.gov.za for more information.

·    Thuthuka Bursary Fund: This fund is managed by the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) and provides bursaries to students pursuing a career in chartered accountancy. The bursary covers tuition fees, textbooks, accommodation, and a living allowance. Check the SAICA website at www.saica.co.za for application details.

Student loans:

·    Fundi Student Loans: Fundi is a financial institution that offers student loans to South African students. They provide loans for tuition fees, textbooks, accommodation, and living expenses. Explore their loan options at www.fundi.co.za.

·    Standard Bank Student Loans: Standard Bank provides student loans to South African students pursuing tertiary education. These loans cover tuition fees, textbooks, and other study-related expenses. Visit the Standard Bank website at www.standardbank.co.za for more information.

·    Absa Student Loans: Absa Bank offers student loans to help cover education-related costs. They provide loans for tuition fees, accommodation, textbooks, and living expenses. Check the Absa Bank website at www.absa.co.za for loan details.

Remember to carefully review the eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and terms and conditions for each bursary or student loan program. Being defunded by NSFAS can be disheartening, but it should not deter your pursuit of education and personal growth. Take the opportunity to reflect on the reasons for defunding and identify areas for improvement. Utilize the advice provided to regain your financial stability and explore alternative funding options. Remember, setbacks can be stepping stones to success, and with resilience, determination, and proactive efforts, you can overcome this challenge and continue your education. Additionally, review the eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and terms and conditions for each bursary or student loan program. It is recommended to apply well in advance and gather all the necessary documentation for a successful application. With determination, thorough research, and diligent applications, you can explore these national bursaries and student loans to alleviate the financial burden and continue your educational journey.

Should you wish to contact nsfas:

NSFAS Contact Details:

Website: www.nsfas.org.za

NSFAS Contact Centre: 0860 067 327

Email: info@nsfas.org.za

Also, check out their social media pages as they do tend to reply faster on there as compared to their emails, call them around 07:55 on weekdays to avoid being in the queue for too long. Best of luck!

About Mukuru

Mukuru, which means "elder" in Shona, is a name that reflects the desire to be a trusted advisor and wise and supportive member of the Southern African community. Mukuru is committed to investing in your education today, to ensure equal opportunities tomorrow. Mukuru will award bursaries to 14 learners to help them study at the university or technical university of choice in South Africa in 2023. Mukuru, a South African Next Gen Financial Services Platform, provides cutting-edge payment solutions and digital innovation to the emerging consumer. They are passionate about creating critical services that improve the lives of communities as a fintech company. They offer the following value-added services:

·    Transfers of cash

·    Mukuru Funeral Cover

·    The Mukuru Card

·    The Mukuru Wallet

·    Mukuru Groceries

Bursary Entry Requirements:

You must apply during the Campaign Period to be eligible to participate in this Campaign

·    Have passed grade 12

·    Register to Study at a South African University or University of Technology

 You can study full-time in one of these fields:

·    Software Development

·    Software Development Management

·    Software Architecture

·    Analyze of Business

·    Information Technology Engineers

·    Software Quality Assurance

Core requirements

·    You have a minimum overall average score of 70%, a Bachelor's Pass (Matric), or a minimum overall score of 65% at the tertiary level.

·    Demonstrate financial need (a combined household income of less than R600 000 a year)

·    You must be at least 18 years old

Restrictions:

·    This bursary is not available to employees of Mukuru.

·    Applying for a job under 18 is not permitted.

·    The household income cannot exceed R600 000

You will need to fill out the Mukuru.com application form and upload the following documents.

·    Your passport and identity document

·    You must provide proof that you are eligible to travel to South Africa.

·    Your matric certificate

·    your latest study results;

·    Your CV

·    A motivational letter that answers the question "Why should Mukuru invest in you" - Explain why you deserve the bursary, and how it will benefit you both professionally as well as financially.

·    Refer to a coach, educator, or another adult who has coached you or taught you.

Mukuru will process your data to verify your entry, and if you win, to make the Bursary accessible to you. All personal information processed by Mukuru is done by Mukuru's Privacy Notice available at: link. You consent to Mukuru processing your data by entering the Campaign. Please do not apply for the bursary if you don't consent.

What is the application process?

Before Mukuru can honor the Study Bursary, a Qualifying Participant must sign a Bursary Agreement. Mukuru will compile a shortlist of Qualifying Participants between the 19th and 3rd of January 2022. A Mukuru panel will interview all Qualifying Participants (in-person and remotely) between the 9th of January 2023 & the 14th of January 2023. Mukuru will announce 14 Qualifying Participants it wants to award a bursary on the 25th of January 2023. Within 48 hours of the winner being chosen, the Study Bursaries will be sent to the Qualifying Participants. The announcement will also take place via social media on February 25, 2023. The Study Bursary will be forfeited if Mukuru fails to reach the winner within three (three) attempts.
Each of the fourteen (14) Study Bursaries consists of Mukuru paying R80,000 (eighty thousand rands) towards the Qualifying Participant's university tuition fees and university textbooks for one (1) year. Statements from the relevant university and textbook supplier will determine the actual amount payable, up to the maximum mentioned above.

Where to apply?

You can reach Mukuru on the following platforms:

                                                           

·    Email: csi@mukuru.com 

·    Call: +27(0)86 001 8555

·    WhatsApp: +27(0)86 001 8555

·    Free USSD: *130*567#

·    You can also use the chat box on their website ( which is available from 07:00 to 19:00 - Monday to Sunday)

Applications close once again on the 19th of December. All applications received after that date will not be accepted. To all qualifying candidates- best of luck.

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The National Student Financial Aid Scheme is a government-run entity that allows any South African student to apply for a bursary or student loan to help them study at a higher education institution. The government's primary goal is to make NSFAS a more efficient provider of financial aid to students from less-privileged families in order to improve access to higher education and training. This will help to end the cycle of poverty and improve the country. Our country's overall performance will improve if more people are educated.

If students get good matric marks and they can qualify to get accepted into a government tertiary institution, they will be able to go study no matter what background they come from because of funding from organisations such as NSFAS. It is a great equaliser.

NSFAS Funding Application for 2023

The NSFAS bursary is available to students who want to continue their education. It covers the cost of studying for certain qualifications at any South African public university or college. This reduces student debt and helps deserving students. To receive financial aid for tuition fees or costs of study, eligible students must create an account and submit their application on the NSFAS online application portal.

NSFAS Application 2023 offers the following bursary programs:

1. Technical Vocational Education and Training is responsible for assessing and implementing systems for continuing and vocational education and training. The TVET Bursary covers the full cost of college fees, as shown in the programme costs for current academic year. It also covers travel and accommodation expenses.

2. The Funza Lushaka bursary programme - supports teaching studies and is available to qualified university students pursuing a teaching degree. The bursary recipient is required to teach in public schools for the same amount of time as they received it. Bursary recipients cannot choose the school in which they wish to teach. The bursary will pay for most of the expenses of tuition and fees. This could include tuition fees, registration fees, accommodation, meals, book allowance, learning materials, and, if necessary, a small allowance to cover monthly living expenses.

Funding is available for two types of qualifications:

- Undergraduate studies, or a 4-year bachelor of education degree (B Ed), with a focus in the Foundation Phase (Grade R - 3), Intermediate Phase (4 - 6), Senior Phase (7 -9) and FET Phase (10-12).
- Graduate studies, or a one year postgraduate certificate in education (PGCE). You can also combine postgraduate qualifications such as a combined specialization in the Foundation Phase and Intermediate Phase, or the Intermediate Phase with Senior Phase or the Senior Phase and the FET Phase.

3. Social Work Bursaries are provided by the Department of Social Development. They provide financial aid to qualified students who want to study for a Bachelor of Social Work degree. Youth between 18 and 35 years old are prioritized in accordance with the government's goal of youth active participation in socioeconomic activities. The university determines the amount of the Social Worker Bursary Cover. It covers registration, tuition fees, book allowance, accommodation allowance and meals.

4. The Disability Bursary Program - Provides financial assistance to applicants with disabilities who have good marks and need financial assistance. The application form must include proof of disability as well as a quote for assistive devices. The applicant must arrange to have an assistive device provided by the student disability unit of the university of TVET college. This will improve the quality and life expectancy of the applicant with a disability, reduce dependency and care costs, and increase the chances of employment and participation in the economy that is enabled by higher education qualifications.

NSFAS bursary recipients are required to work in South Africa during a specific period following graduation. Bursary holders who are unable to find work in South Africa within three months of completing their studies must apply to NSFAS to receive a fair exit/buy-out clause.

Visit the official NSFAS sites for more information: https://www.nsfas.org.za/content/index.html

Bursary requirements and financial eligibility

- South African citizen (foreign students should not apply).
- Applicants who wish to study an undergraduate degree at a TVET college or public university with the required academic requirements.

- Do not apply if you have already applied and have a reference number.

- No grant recipients of NSFAS funding in the current academic year.

Only students from the following fields of study are eligible for postgraduate studies:

- B Tech - Architecture? Architectural Technology
- B Tech - Biokinetics, Biomedical Technology/Biotechnology
- Postgraduate Certificate in Education
- Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting
- Bachelor of Laws/LLB

To apply for a TVET college NSFAS bursary:

- Registered at a South African TVET college
- Registered for National Certificate (vocational).
Register for N1-N6 engineering programmes and N4-N6 all other fields.

How to Apply Online

• - Go to www.nsfas.org.za

• - Click on the tab "myNSFAS".

• - Click on "Register".

• - To allow NSFAS verification of your details, tick the box

• - Enter your ID number in the same field as it appears on your ID document.

• - Enter your full name and surname.

• - Enter your email address

• - Confirm your email address

• - Enter your cell phone number

• - Set up a password and confirm it

• - Upload a photo of your ID

• - Click to Register

• - An OTP will send to the email address and mobile number you provide (this OTP expires 24 hours later).

• - Complete the OTP form and click submit

• - Complete registration

2. To access the online application form, click the Apply tab.

3. Make certified copies of these documents:

• - South African identity document (or unabridged South African birth certificate)

• - Identifications of guardians and parents (death certificate, if applicable).

• - Identification of every person in your household

• - Documentation of proof of household income for the past three months (not more than three months) and combined income, if applicable.

• - Academic results

• - Documents for university registration

• - If applicable, travel and accommodation documents

• - If applicable, proof of marital status

• - Fill out the consent form, and sign it with all the signatures of those whose incomes were declared in the application.

• - Download the Annexure A for people with disabilities.

NSFAS Manual Application Forms

• - You can pick up a printed copy of the application form at one of the centers.

• - To complete the NSFAS application, use black ink and make sure you write in the spaces with capital letters.

• - Don't cancel any text. Make sure you write clearly.

• - Sign the consent form with your parents/guardians.

• - Make certified copies of all supporting documents listed and attach them to your application form by stapling.

• - Documents should be certified on the front of the page within three months.

• - Complete the application form and send it in to an assistant at the NYDA.

• - An application form will be attached along with a barcode. Wait for the acknowledgment of receipt card.

You can also apply elsewhere

The DHET is expanding other areas for applicants to apply for and/or use computers and/or the internet.

• - Department of Basic Education (DBE), District Teacher Development Centres. To use the facilities, students must make an appointment to meet with the centre manager.

• - Thusong centres (community Development Centres)
  

A list of Thusong and Teacher centres per province is available at https:///www.nsfas.org.za/content/application-centres.html

NSFAS Application Closing Date for 2023

NSFAS Applications are now open for 2023. NSFAS funding is available starting September 28, 2022. The 31st of January 2023 is the deadline for applications.

Late applications received after the closing date won't be accepted for 2023.

You can check your application status at:

You can check your NSFAS application status logging into the myNSFAS port: https://my.nsfas.org.za/

NSFAS Contact Details

Post: Private Bag X1, Plumstead 7801, South Africa
Address: 10 Brodie Road, House Vincent 2nd Floor, Wynberg, Cape Town 7700
Tel: 0860067327

Email: info@nsfas.org.za
Twitter: @myNSFAS

FAQs about NSFAS

How to reset myNSFAS login details in order to recover your account

• Go to www.nsfas.org.za and click on myNSFAS. Select "forgot password?"

• Enter your ID number, and then indicate the assistance you require. Enter your password or username, and click on submit.

• The username and link to reset your password will be sent by email and SMS. Follow these instructions to recover your account.

How do I find out if my application was successful?

Once it receives confirmation from an educational institution, NSFAS will send applicants the results of their applications.

Notifications will be sent out to applicants via email, SMS and myNSFS accounts before the start the academic year.

MyNSFAS accounts allow students to track the progress of their applications.

Can I appeal against a rejected application

You may have the right to appeal a rejection of your NSFAS request.

1. - Log into the MyNSFAS portal at https://my.nsfas.org.za/Application/selfservice.jsp

2. - Choose the Track Funding Progress option

3. - You can check the progress tabs of your application

4. - If your application status shows as failed, you can appeal the situation by clicking the Submit Appeal tab.

5. - You will be taken to the Application Appeal page. Here you can see the reason behind the unsuccessful application.

6. - A motivational letter explaining why you appeal your application status should be submitted.

7. - To support your statement, upload any supporting documents.

8. - Click Submit Appeal.

9. - The MyNSFAS portal allows you to track the progress of appeals.

If my NSFAS funds are approved, do I need to pay registration?

No. Registration fees are included in the first payments made by NSFAS therefore NSFAS students will not be blocked from registration.

Is there an age limit for NSFAS?

NSFAS administers the DHET bursary without age restrictions.

Age limits are imposed on some bursaries offered by NSFAS, such as the Funza Lushaka teaching Bursary and Social Work Scholarship.

Does NSFAS give you a laptop?

Students can use their book allowance for laptops and tablets.

During the COVID-19 lockdown 2020, it was decided to provide laptops for free to both TVET and University students who did not have them yet.

If I fail a module, will NSFAS finance me?

To continue receiving financial aid, students must pass at minimum 50% of their modules.

The funding period is limited. NSFAS will only pay for the course's standard duration plus an additional year according to the n+1 formula.

NSFAS won't pay for repeat modules to obtain higher certificates.

Does NSFAS fund postgraduate studies?

NSFAS does not fund post graduate degrees in careers that require it to be a professional requirement.

• - PGCE - Postgraduate Certificate in Education

• - PGDA - Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting

• - Selected B Tech courses

Is NSFAS able to fund private college and university studies?

No. Only students studying approved courses at state universities and TVET colleges in South Africa will be funded.

What are the chances of me being funded to complete a second qualification?

Students who have not completed a university degree before are not eligible for funding. A TVET N6 qualification is not eligible for funding at a TVET college. However, they may be eligible at a university.

Unemployed guardians/parents, or parents who work in the informal sector must provide proof of employment.

A signed affidavit is acceptable, but NSFAS will verify employment status through government agencies and third-party agencies.

Does NSFAS affect my credit score?

NSFAS reserves all rights to report students who fail to meet their debt obligations to credit bureaus. NSFAS has used debt collection services in recent years to monitor outstanding loans for students who have completed studies up to 2017.