With full cost for an undergrad degree running at around R200 000 per year, many UCT students struggle to fund their higher education from their household income. The situation has become more dire, with the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) placing an accommodation cap on their funded students. These students who come from households of less than R350 000 gross per annum, are facing an unprecedented fee debt that will impact their ability to graduate.

Did you know?

  • In 2024, nearly 33% of our South African undergraduates are NSFAS funded.
  • These are students from families with a gross income of less than R350 000, with the current financial crunch, families are unable to meet any shortfall in funding.
  • Nearly 3 800 NSFAS funded students are in university residence and face an accommodation shortfall of R110 million annually.
  • Close to 50% of our first-year students are first in their family to attend university; these students are socio-economic change agents for the future.

Each year, UCT has a list of students who have completed the full academic requirements but cannot receive their degree certificates. They have worked hard and deserve the bright future that a UCT qualification will give them.

Pledge your support today

Empower the next generation by lifting the burden of student debt.

With your help, we can ensure Graduation Day for all qualifying UCT students because Together, we are UCT. Make a once-off gift or consider a monthly donation. From as little as R200 per month, you can help a deserving UCT student attain their graduation dream. A single, larger donation of between R1 000 and R5 000 will help multiple students to succeed. Your contribution matters. Help UCT ensure that South Africa’s brightest young minds get their careers off to a great start.

UCT Unlocking Futures Bursary