Dear SPU Students
In 2021, as part of a short-term solution to the ongoing higher-education funding crisis, several universities established dedicated funds to help final-year students settle outstanding debt, drawing on resources from University Councils and donations from the private sector. At Sol Plaatje University (SPU), this initiative led to the creation of the Undergraduate Final-Year Student Fund (UFSF).
The UFSF offers financial support to final-year undergraduate students with outstanding balances, enabling them to complete their qualifications and graduate. This assistance helps students enter the workforce sooner as contributors to the country’s economy and tax base. Students who pursue postgraduate studies can do so with little or no remaining debt.
The threshold for the amount that each student can receive from the Fund will be determined by the Senior Management Team (SMT). Financial support received through this Fund does not need to be repaid.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the UFSF, you must meet all the following requirements:
- You are an undergraduate student at SPU who was registered in the previous academic year and are in your final year of study, with total student debt up to the threshold set by the SMT.
- You have demonstrated reasonable progress toward completing studies, as reflected in your academic record.
- You have already tried other means to repay your debt and can provide evidence of these efforts.
- You have a gross family income of less than R600,000 or can provide proof of financial hardship.
- This Fund is not intended to replace funding already arranged for repaying your debt.
Who Is Not Eligible?
- Final-year SPU students whose outstanding debt exceeds the threshold set by the SMT.
- Students in any year of study other than their final year.
- SPU graduates.
- International students.
Application and Disbursement Process
- Application Submission
Complete your motivation letter and email it, along with all supporting documents, to [email protected].
2. Initial Assessment
The Finance Division reviews your application to confirm your eligibility. If necessary, they may meet with you to discuss the application further.
3. Committee Review
Eligible applications are submitted, via the Secretariat, to the Financial Aid and Scholarship Committee (FASC), chaired by the University Registrar, for a final decision.
4. Approval and Notification
Once approved, the FASC Secretariat informs the Finance Division to clear your outstanding debt and communicates the outcome to you.
Members of the Financial Aid and Scholarship Committee:
- University Registrar (Chairperson)
- Director: Research (Deputy Chairperson)
- Director: Financial Operations
- Dean: Student Affairs
- Manager: Financial Aid
- Faculty representatives (nominated by their respective Dean)
In Attendance
- Two SRC Members (Treasurer-General and President)
- Financial Aid Officer
- Committee Secretary (from the Office of the University Registrar)
