Now that all the excitement of completing grade 12 has passed, it is time for a new chapter. If you’re moving onwards and upwards, life as a university student is even better. However, it’s not without its own set of challenges. This is especially true for those who need to pay their own fees. First off, we’d like to say there’s no shame whatsoever in taking responsibility for your educational finances. Many have been in your position and have gone on to be some of the most successful professionals in their field.
Before you get the ball rolling on your time as a university student, you need to know how you’ll cover that tuition. The good thing is, you have options. By considering all of them, you can select the one that best suits you. Here are a few ways that you can do just that and secure an investment in your future.
1. Work and study at the same time
Not only will this allow you to gain invaluable work experience at the same time as your degree or diploma, but you will also be able to pay your fees. As an added benefit, you’ll get a head start on making those all-important industry connections long before those who study full-time will get to. Depending on your study schedule you could work half days, evenings or weekends. That way, you won’t miss out on lectures or assignments.
2. Take out a student loan or bank loan
Today, most banks offer these kinds of loans. For a student loan, you will need to earn a certain amount. Alternatively, you will need your mom or dad to sign as your surety. Of course, there will be interest on the amount but it’s a small price to pay for your future. Bank loans are a good alternative for those short learning programmes or part-time study programmes like higher certificates. As soon as it has been approved, the funds will be transferred to you. It will then be up to you to use the money for your tuition and materials needed for your studies. Websites such as www.studenthero.co.za are a one stop shop that grants you access to a variety of student loan options, and they do all the ground work for you.
3. In-company training
Some businesses want to upskill their workforce at all costs. As a result, they fund their education and help employees to get a qualification whilst they’re working for them. If you’re considering getting a job with an organisation to pay for your studies, find out if they offer educational benefits as well.
4. Apply for a bursary or scholarship
A bursary is awarded to those who achieve a high standard of results. This could be based on your grade 11 or matric results. It could be re-awarded year after year if you maintain your good marks at university. Some businesses offer bursaries but you might need to work for them after you have completed your studies. This isn’t a bad thing as you’ll be guaranteed a job after you graduate. A scholarship, on the other hand, is given to a student based on a set of criteria determined by the entity donating it. This could be sports, academics or even leadership. Scholarships do not need to be paid back after they have been given.
Everyone deserves to benefit from our New World Thinking
At The IIE’s Varsity College, our approach to problem-solving and critical thinking helps our graduates set themselves apart. For more on our fees and finance options, please click here to visit our website today.
Varsity College is an educational brand of The Independent Institute of Education (The IIE). South Africa’s leading private higher education provider that’s registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training, and accredited by the British Accreditation Council (BAC).