Students at the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) are funded through NSFAS, external bursaries from sponsors, sport bursaries and other scholarships, grants and loans. VUT's Financial Aid section administers external bursaries. The details below come from VUT's 2026 student fee guide, its financial aid page and its registration information.
NSFAS
VUT offers NSFAS funding according to the criteria set by NSFAS. Confirmed NSFAS-funded students, and other sponsored students, may not be required to pay the registration fee. Apply on the NSFAS website before its closing date.
External bursaries
External bursaries offered by sponsors are administered by VUT's Financial Aid section. You need to apply for admission at VUT and be a registered student before a loan or bursary can be allocated to you.
What bursaries do not cover
VUT's fee guide notes that loans and academic bursaries do not cover registration fees and deposits. So plan for the R2,500 first minimum payment, or the residence registration amount, if your funding is not confirmed in time.
Where to ask
For bursary and loan enquiries, contact VUT's Financial Aid section, which administers external bursaries for sponsors.
Sport bursaries
For sport bursary enquiries, contact VUT's Sports Bureau on 016 950 9282.
Refunds from bursaries
If your account has a credit because of a bursary or award, VUT pays refunds only under the rules of that sponsor. Credit from your own or your family's payments can be refunded at any time to the person who paid.
Discounts for self-funded students
- Early settlement: 10% off class fees for year students who pay all fees by 30 April, if they apply after settling
- Family rebate: 25% off class fees for a second child and 50% for a third child studying full-time at VUT in the same year
International students
VUT's International Office says VUT does not currently offer scholarships for first-time international students. International students pay 100% of their fees upfront.
Funding calls
VUT's financial aid page lists available funding options, including bursaries, scholarships, grants and loans, with current bursary calls and application forms. Check it regularly, because calls open and close during the year.
If you owe fees
Students who have an outstanding balance, or have not made the required initial payment, cannot register until the amount is paid. VUT also withholds results and qualifications from students in debt.
Interest
VUT charges interest on overdue accounts at 80% of the prime rate on the balance as at 31 October, so make sure your sponsor pays on time.
More funding
Frequently Asked Questions
Do NSFAS students pay VUT's registration fee?
Confirmed NSFAS-funded students may not be required to pay it.
Do VUT bursaries cover registration fees?
No. Loans and academic bursaries do not cover registration fees and deposits.
Does VUT offer scholarships to new international students?
Not currently.