Students at the University of Pretoria (UP) can fund their studies through UP achievement awards, NSFAS, external bursaries, scholarships and loans. UP's Student Funding office brings these options together on its website. The details below come from UP's frequently asked questions and its registration and fee information.
Achievement awards and bursaries
UP gives achievement awards to students with strong results, alongside a range of bursaries and loans. Its Student Funding pages list achievement awards, NSFAS, available bursaries and loans in one place. Check them early in your matric year, because many funders close well before the academic year starts.
NSFAS
NSFAS funds students whose family income falls below its threshold. If you are NSFAS-funded and need accommodation but do not get a place in a UP-owned or UP-leased residence, find a place in a UP-accredited private residence. NSFAS does not pay for accommodation in properties that UP has not accredited.
If you need a laptop as an NSFAS student, take this up with NSFAS directly.
If your income is above the NSFAS threshold
UP lists other financial assistance options for students whose family income is too high for NSFAS. These include other bursaries and study loans, so check the list each year.
The Funza Lushaka bursary
If you want to become a teacher, the Department of Basic Education's Funza Lushaka bursary funds undergraduate teaching qualifications in priority areas. It is a multi-year bursary, and the Department of Basic Education and the provincial departments select the recipients. Applications open online from 1 October to the second week of January, before you start your BEd.
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
UP takes part in the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, which UP listed as open for applications for 2026. Apply online through UP's website when the programme is open.
Refunds of credit balances
If you have a credit balance on your account, apply for a refund online on the Student Centre of the UP Portal. If the credit came from NSFAS, an achievement award or FLY@UP Assist, follow the separate email process that UP sets out.
Proof for your bursar
Some bursaries need proof that UP is a registered higher education institution. UP does not post documents to bursars or parents, so download what you need from the UP Portal.
Registration fees
Even with a bursary, you need to know what you owe. UP charges an application fee of R300, and a residence acceptance levy of R5,700 if you take up a residence place. Read more on the UP fees page.
More funding
Browse our bursaries for companies, SETAs and government departments that fund UP students.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does UP offer bursaries?
Yes. UP offers achievement awards, bursaries and loans, alongside NSFAS.
Does NSFAS pay for private accommodation near UP?
Only in private residences that UP has accredited.
When does the Funza Lushaka bursary open?
Applications open from 1 October to the second week of January.