UNIVERSITY LINKS BLOG

  So, you’ve been accepted to university—congratulations! One of your next big decisions is where you’re going to stay. For many students, the choice comes down to on-campus vs off-campus accommodation. Each option has its pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your personality, budget, lifestyle, and support needs. In this post, we’ll break down the differences , benefits , and challenges of each to help you make the best decision. What Is On-Campus Accommodation? On-campus accommodation refers to university residences (also called res , hostels , or digs ) that are located within or very close to the university campus . These are managed by the university or in partnership with student housing providers. Pros of Staying On-Campus: Convenience You’re close to lecture halls, libraries, cafeterias, labs, and support services. No transport stress. Student Life & Community You’ll be surrounded by fellow students, making it easier to make friends and feel...

  Starting university is exciting—but also a little scary. You’re entering a new world with unfamiliar faces, bigger classes, and a different way of life. Many first-year students wonder: “How will I make friends?” “Will I fit in?” “What if I end up feeling alone?” These are valid questions—and the good news is, most people around you are feeling the same way. This post is here to remind you: you’re not alone , and there are plenty of ways to build meaningful friendships and find your place at university. 1. Be Open to New People and Experiences One of the best things about university is that it's a fresh start. You're surrounded by people from different backgrounds, provinces, even countries. Don’t be afraid to talk to someone sitting next to you in class or in the cafeteria. A simple “Hi, how are you finding the course so far?” can open the door to a new friendship. Tip: The first few weeks are when most people are looking to connect. Take advantage of this time to...

    So you're heading to university, but there’s one big question on your mind: “How am I going to afford this?” You’re not alone—and the good news is, South Africa has multiple financial aid options to help you get there. But it can be confusing to figure out the difference between NSFAS , scholarships , and bursaries . Let’s break it down in simple terms so you can make the right decision for your future. 1. What is NSFAS? NSFAS stands for National Student Financial Aid Scheme . It is a government-funded program that provides financial assistance to South African students who come from low-income households . Key Features: Funded by: The South African government Who can apply: South African citizens with a combined household income of R350,000 or less per year Covers: Tuition, registration fees, accommodation, meals, transport, learning materials, and more Institutions covered: Public universities and TVET colleges in South Africa Application process: Onlin...

  Failing in varsity can feel like the end of the world — especially when you've worked hard to get there. Whether you're overwhelmed by the course content, struggling with motivation, or just not seeing the results you hoped for, know this: you are not alone , and this is not the end . Academic failure happens for many reasons, and it doesn’t define your future. What matters most is what you do next. If you're wondering whether you should change your course, switch universities, or take a completely different route, this blog post is for you. 1. Pause. Reflect. Be Honest With Yourself. Before making any big decisions, take time to reflect on why things aren't working out. Ask yourself: Did I choose this course for the right reasons? Do I genuinely enjoy the subjects I'm studying? Have I been giving it my best effort? Are there personal, financial, or mental health challenges affecting my performance? Sometimes, failure is more about the environment ...

    Applying to universities in South Africa can be an exciting yet daunting process, especially with the additional costs that come with it. Here's a breakdown of what you can expect to pay for application fees at various institutions:   University Application:  https://www.universitylinks.co.za/index.html     Universities with No Application Fees University of Johannesburg (UJ) : No application fee for online applications University of the Free State (UFS) : No application fee Central University of Technology (CUT) : No application fee Nelson Mandela University (NMU) : No application fee for South African citizens University of the Western Cape (UWC) : No application fee for online applications Walter Sisulu University (WSU) : No application fee Sol Plaatje University (SPU) : No application fee North-West University (NWU) : No application fee for South African citizens Universities with Application Fees University of Cape Town (UCT) : R100 for South A...

  Tertiary life can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to studying. With multiple assignments, readings, and exams to juggle, it's easy to feel lost. But what if you could study more efficiently and effectively? In this post, we'll share practical study tips to help you achieve your academic goals.   1. Set Specific Goals Before starting your study session, define what you want to achieve. Break down large tasks into smaller, manageable chunks, and prioritize the most important ones. This will help you stay focused and motivated.   2. Use Active Learning Techniques Don't just read through your notes passively. Engage with the material by: Summarizing key points in your own words Creating concept maps or flashcards Discussing topics with classmates or study groups 3. Practice Active Recall Test yourself regularly on the material you're trying to learn. Quiz yourself or use online resources like Quizlet to reinforce your understanding. Also try and use pr...

Starting university is an exciting and transformative experience that marks a significant milestone in your life. As you embark on this journey, you'll encounter a mix of academic challenges, personal growth, and social experiences that shape your university years and beyond. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you understand what to expect from university life. Academics University academics are designed to foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and independent learning. Here are some key aspects to expect: Lectures and Tutorials : Attend lectures to gain foundational knowledge and participate in tutorials to engage in discussions and clarify concepts. Assignments and Projects : Complete assignments and projects to demonstrate your understanding and application of course material. Research and Critical Thinking : Develop research skills and critical thinking to analyze complex issues and present well-supported arguments. Assessment and Feedback : Receive regular assessmen...