UNIVERSITY LINKS BLOG

    As a Grade 12 learner preparing for life after high school, you're probably hearing a lot about your options for further study — and two of the most common institutions mentioned are universities and TVET colleges . But what exactly is the difference between them? Which one is better for you? And how do you know which one to choose? Let’s break it down so you can make an informed decision about your future. What Is a University? A university is a higher education institution that offers academic and professional qualifications , including: Degrees (e.g. Bachelor of Arts, BSc, BCom, LLB, etc.) Postgraduate qualifications (Honours, Masters, and Doctorates) Universities focus on: Theoretical knowledge Research and academic study Preparing students for careers that require in-depth study (like medicine, law, engineering, accounting, etc.) Examples of public universities in South Africa: University of Cape Town (UCT) University of Johannesburg (UJ) ...

  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 ...