9 Tips For Staying In Shape While Hitting The Books

All students face the exam-monster… the stress, the lack of time for yourself and others, the absence of a social life and even worse… the exam weight. Sitting at your desk all day can have its benefits for your studies, but not so much for your physical activity levels. As we head into exam-season, we take a look at tips for staying in shape while hitting the books:

1. Put together a schedule
By compiling a balanced study schedule, you can ensure that you allocate sufficient time for your studies, time for exercise and sleep.

2. Take regular study breaks 
Study breaks are a good way to get up from your desk. Take a walk to the kitchen to get a fresh glass of water. This will help with your blood flow, making sure your brain gets a fresh burst of oxygen and you get to stretch your legs.

3. Plan a study group
Touching base with other students is not just good for your studies, but also gets you off your chair. A study group is a place for you to debate concepts, ask questions and help each other study. Besides working together, students in study groups can generally learn faster than students working alone!

4. Get out of the house
Choose a study location away from home, forcing you to shower, change and get out of your house. 

5. Walk or cycle
When you leave the house to study in the library or to meet your study group, choose to walk or cycle. The additional physical exercise will do you wonders!

6. Balance
Replace your desk chair with a Pilates balance ball. This will ensure that you maintain good posture and work your core balance at the same time!

7. Don’t ditch exercise
It is so easy to ditch exercise when you are tired. Sleep often wins the debate and then you limit your physical activity even more. Try and keep yourself motivated to get moving! You can always get a gym partner or join a team to ensure that you have one more reason to get out there!

8. Small, regular meals
Keep an eye on your meals. The type of food you put into your body has a lot to do with what you get out. Avoid large meals and stick to smaller and more regular meals that will ensure that you get all the vitamins and minerals that you need.

9. Healthy snacking
It is easy to snack while studying and because exam times are stressful and you generally do not have much time, you might find yourself quickly grabbing a snack from the vending machine. If you are studying out of home, plan your day, pack healthy snacks like fruit and nuts and avoid the dreaded convenience of the vending machine.

Every little bit helps! So whether you choose to take the stairs opposed to the lift, make a point of taking a walk during your study break or whether you stay committed to your soccer team while you are studying, keep in mind that exercise is great for your studies too!

Eating Healthy While Studying – Why What You Put In, Affects What You Get Out

We often remind you that good study habits are key to success in school, college and university. A healthy diet supports your studies by helping you concentrate.

Did you know that you can improve your academic potential by eating certain foods and following particular eating patterns for their brain-boosting benefits?

Meeting your daily vitamin and mineral requirements will make doing your best much easier. Iron and B vitamins are especially important to maintaining the physical and mental energy necessary to concentrate. Keep an eye on your diet and ensure that you include all 5 food groups in your diet:

• Grains
• Vegetables
• Fruits
• Dairy
• Protein

Eating regular meals keeps nutrient and energy levels more stable, limiting the temptation of snacks that you might find in the vending machine. Eating three big meals a day slows you down mentally and physically and can also make you drowsy. Rather have 5 or 6 well-balanced, smaller meals, to sustain your energy levels.

By snacking while studying you may find that you remember more of the information that you studied. Here is a list of snacks that you can consider:

• Peanut butter sandwich on whole wheat bread – This simple sandwich provides protein, whole grains, and healthy fats.
• Piece of whole fruit – We suggest eating an apple or banana as the healthiest option, but there are so many others including oranges, grapes, strawberries and pears.
• Carrots and hummus – That crunch is oh so satisfying!  Other veggies like bell peppers and cucumber slices are great with hummus too.
• Cheese and cherry tomatoes - Cheese can be a good source of calcium, protein, and other important nutrients.

Finally, you should keep hydrated. Keep a glass of water at your desk to help maintain your energy. Take regular sips and get up from your desk to fill you glass to take a break from your studies.

By taking care of what is going into your body, you can make sure that you are one step closer to successfully studying and retaining the information!

Year of The Artisan & Skills-Based Education: How To Become A Hairdresser

This year has been declared the “Year of the Artisan and Skills-Based Education” by government, to promote the diplomas and courses offered by Further Education and Training (FET) colleges in South Africa. This month we will be looking at how to become a hairdresser and what you will have to study to qualify as one.

Hairdressers render a variety of services to clients that might include washing, cutting and styling hair. They also perform a variety of chemical treatments which could include perming, straightening, colouring and highlighting.

A career in hairdressing can give you an opportunity to work in a salon, a barber shop, perform home-visits or work in an old-age home and even on film, television or theatre sets.

The satisfying objects of becoming a hairdresser: You can enjoy self-employment You get to work with a large variety of people You assist others in improving their appearance Hairdressing allows a variety of creative opportunities

The demanding aspects of becoming a hairdresser: You might have to work long hours and over weekends Hairdressers stand for long periods of time It can get tricky to serve difficult clients There might be periods where you might not have any clients

Here is a short list of five skills that you might require:

1. The ability to handle stress – hairdressers often have to work under extreme pressure.
2. Remain positive – you should be able to provide your clients with the best service, regardless of whether you are having a bad day.
3. Enjoy working with people – You will have to work with a variety of people, and you will often not be able to choose your clients.
4. Good at solving problems – Whether you have to find a style to suit a face-shape or whether a client requests an intricate style for an event that incorporates flowers, you will constantly have to think of inventive ways to solve problems.
5. Enjoy being creative – Whether you have to come up with a stunning ‘do’ or a way to inspire new styles and ways to use colour, creativity is an important skill necessary for this occupation.

Convinced that Hairdressing is for you?

The National Certificate in Hairdressing takes place across level 2, level 3 and level 4. During your studies, you can partake in an apprenticeship at a salon. Here you will work under the eye of a qualified stylist who will also teach you a variety of skills and provide you with real-life experience. After you have completed the necessary curriculum and completed your practical hours, you will be able to complete your trade test. Speak to your college to establish what their requirement are.

There are various FET colleges that offer courses in hairdressing. It is always recommended to cross-reference the college’s accreditation. You can visit the SAQA website to see more detailed information about the qualification as well as a list of some accredited providers.

You can contact Eduloan as soon as you have decided which school or training college you would like to study at and one of our consultants will be able to give you all the information you require to get the financial assistance to realise your dream of becoming a hairdresser. For more information or to speak to one of our Eduloan consultants, visit our website www.eduloan.co.za.

Four Careers That Touch Lives

There are a variety of careers that touch our lives daily. If you are also interested in furthering your studies and touching people’s lives, there are a variety of career options that you can consider. Here are four careers that might have touched your life as well as those lives around you.

Doctors and nurses touch one’s life from an early age. Whether you require chronic health care or whether you have to go to the doctor for regular check-ups, those who work in the medical profession care for you and your family on a regular basis.

Did you know: The stereotypes some people hold about being a nurse can come from what they know from history about Florence Nightingale, even though the profession has changed over the years.

There is no doubt the role of a teacher is a demanding and rewarding one. A teacher may teach young children who have just started school, or they may teach much older children in a specific subject. One of the largest tasks for a teacher is to ensure that every pupil develops an interest in what they are being taught. Teachers individually and collectively can not only change the world, but improve it, and in the process find personal and professional renewal.

Did you know: There is more than one path towards becoming a teacher and getting the degree you want? Some people choose to study for a BEd – a Bachelor of Education degree. You can also complete a bachelor degree in a specific subject lasting three to four years, and then follow it up with a post graduate course.

Social work strives to address social problems in the country from a social development and a social justice perspective. Social Workers work with people from all walks of life, focusing on the needs of the most vulnerable. Social Workers work with individuals, groups, families and communities. If you’re looking for a career with meaning, diversity, satisfaction, and an abundance of options, consider social work.  Social workers are people who care about people, who want to make things better, who want to relieve suffering, who want their work to make a difference.

Did you know: Social workers are employed in a variety of settings, including hospitals, mental health clinics, schools, nonprofit agencies, and government offices.

There can be few more rewarding careers to consider than that of a police officer. While no two jobs are ever quite the same from day to day, this is definitely the case when it comes to being a police officer. A South African police officer has many different duties. The main duty is of course to ensure that law and order is upheld at all times. Crime prevention is just as important as locating criminals, solving crimes and upholding the law. All police officers must take an oath of office.

Did you know: A reservist is a member of the community that performs part time (at least sixteen (16) hours per month) policing functions or activities for the South African Police Service on a voluntary basis without being remunerated for such services?

You can contact your local college or university for more information on furthering your studies. The South African Police Service has more information on becoming a police officer. By deciding to further your studies in one of these fields are demanding, yet extremely rewarding. We would like to thank those who touch our lives and hope that they inspire more South Africans to walk in their shoes.

Eduloan recognises the need for access to more affordable financial assistance for public sector employees (like nurses, policemen etc). Eduloan enjoys a long-standing relationship with government, offering all government employees easier credit approval processes and automatic salary deductions. This special arrangement smooth’s the way ahead for your career path.

At Eduloan, we have several teachers, policemen and nurses as clients and respect the contribution that these people make to our society. If you are a government employee, you can talk to us about how we can unlock your potential.  We are also on hand to discuss how we can assist with education loans for your children and family members too.

Not Just A Student Number: I am the youth of tomorrow

Eduloan is celebrating the individuality of South African students and scholars, recognising the potential in every person. We consider every student’s needs when we put together their student loan package, taking your dreams and ambitions into consideration and working out a payment schedule that will suit you and your pocket!

That’s why we’re asked YOU to give a voice to students all over Southern Africa. Mofokeng Mojalefa 
participate in our Not Just a Student Number initiative and is this months winner.

Read it here:

It is said that varsity or higher education is a privilege not a right, so if you find yourself at varsity embrace every moment! Make every day as memorable as possible, for you’ll never know what tomorrow may bring.

I take a stand today, as a 2nd year student at the North West University Vaal Triangle Campus. I am not here just as a student with an 8 digit student number, but here to make a change, not only in my own life but in the community too. I’m currently doing my Bachelors’ of Education degree and receiving experience on becoming the best educator I can be! I want to give back to the community and all the B.Ed students by going to different organisations and helping out where needed.

This has made me a student that is highly productive, not just a student number. Apart from my course, I’m also part of the student’s campus newspaper and the administrative officer of the Ubuntu homo association. This is a campus society at the Vaal Triangle campus, aimed at highlighting homosexual rights and promoting healthy living for our fellow gay and lesbian pupils. As a result of this opportunity, I vow to myself that I’m not going to leave here with just a student number but I will leave a legacy behind.

I salute Eduloan because without that green Eduxtras card, which allow us to purchase food and books, all this wouldn't be so easy.


I Mofokeng Mojalefa am ‘not just a student number’.

Getting Ready For Exams – 10 Things You Should Keep In Mind

With the looming exam season, we thought we would give you a couple of tips that you can keep in mind ahead of the upcoming exam period.

#1 – Make a study schedule

Compile a realistic study schedule. Not everyone works and studies at the same pace, keep this in mind and don’t always measure your schedule to your friends’. If you allocate too much time you might end up procrastinating and too little time can add even more pressure during exam time.

#2 – Ensure you have a good study environment

Prepare a good environment for you to use while you study. Ensure you will not be distracted and that you will have everything you need at hand. Avoid areas where your friends or siblings can distract you and if there are too many distractions at home, choose to study in a study room at school, college or university or use your nearest library. You know which environment is best for you!

#3 – Ask for past papers

Using past papers is a good way to get the hang of how teachers or lecturers approach the topics. Ask your teacher, lecturer, librarian, friends or siblings for past papers and ensure that the curriculum has not changed since these exam questions were set. These will also give you a good idea to gauge how much you still have to study or on which sections you might need to spend some more time on.

#4 – Ensure all your admin is up-to-date

Ensure you complete all necessary forms and submit your applications if you are applying for any further studies! We have opened our applications for 2014 study loans to allow you to pay all your administration fees well ahead of the exam season, to ensure that you avoid further stress.

#5 – Set yourself realistic goals

Set yourself daily goals. These will ensure that you feel like you are reaching benchmarks daily, especially if you have a large volume of work to study. When you reach your goals, be sure to reward yourself! Good examples of goals can include:

·         Study chapters 1 – 6 before lunch

·         Complete the mind-map for World War II today

·         Achieve 80% or more on a Mathematics past paper by Thursday

#6 – Give yourself some time off

Make sure you schedule some time off. You might find that taking regular breaks can benefit your concentration, but be realistic. Don’t reward yourself with an hour TV after every 30min of studying. Time off ensure that you have enough rest to function properly when you do study.

#7 – Exercise

The benefits of physical exercise, especially aerobics, have positive effects on the brain function. The increased blood flow will ensure your brain has the blood it requires to function at its best! Besides, getting out will give you a break and ensure you spend some time with family and friends too.

#8 – Use Colour

Don’t be shy to use colour while you study. Although few people have visual memories, colours can help you quickly identify common topics and it can even just make your studies more interesting.

#9 – Manage your stress

Don’t take on more responsibilities when you are in exam-mode. More responsibilities can contribute to more stress. We would also advise that you avoid unnecessary or stressful situations. Focus on the task at hand and take control or manage the stress before it takes control of you!

#10 – Don’t cram

It is never a good idea to leave studying till the last minute. Cramming might mean that you can spend time on other things, but cramming can also mean that it is easier to forget or can also contribute to even more stress.

Good luck for the upcoming exams!

8 Tips For Balancing ‘Self’ And ‘Responsibility’

With all the demands of your daily life, it could be difficult to pay enough attention to yourself as well as your responsibilities. Whether you are at school, college or university, every step of your education can have various demands. Here are some tips to ensure you start managing your time effectively and that you don’t fall under pressure leading to further stress in your life!

Tip #1 – Schedule your time

Schedule your time and make sure that you get to all your responsibilities daily.

Tip #2 – Listen to your body

Your body will tell you if you’re tired or hungry. Don’t ignore the warning signs!  Your body requires rest and food to make sure that it functions properly – which is key especially during exam periods.

Tip #3 – Exercise

Exercise ensures a healthy mind and body. Going for a run could help clear your mind or going to gym might give you added perspective.

Tip #4 – Set goals for yourself

By setting goals, you can guarantee that your schedule works for you and you will have a great sense of achievement. Be sure to set realistic goals!

Tip #5 – Have responsible relationships

Ensure that you engage in relationships that are good for you. Learn to manage your relationships, mainly because it is very easy to be drawn into someone else’s life or problems. Striking a balance in life is key.

Tip #6 – Learn to say no

If you feel uncomfortable or if you know that you will not have enough time to do something or go somewhere, do not commit yourself to doing something that you will not be able to achieve!

Tip #7 – Do something for yourself and for others

Take the time to do something you love or enjoy to make sure that you get into the best headspace! Doing something for others can also be rewarding, so think about doing something for someone else too.

Tip #8 – Reward Yourself

Whether you enjoy some extra time on the soccer field, or one more hour with a novel, reward yourself for maintaining balance.

Why don’t you draw up a schedule and mark your average daily activities on the sheet in different colours. Pay attention to the volume of time that you might allocate to one activity, responsibility or task that might disrupt the balance of “self” and “responsibility”. If you are worried about your time management or if you are finding it difficult to reach a balance, schedule an appointment with your counselor at school, college or university. Ask your parents and friends for help if needed!

Interview – Eduloan speaks to Vincent Meyer, an Engineering Student

Ever wonder how some students seem to do so well in their studies, seemingly without too much effort? Today on the Eduloan blog we speak to Vincent Meyer, a student from the University of Johannesburg who recently achieved a degree in Engineering. He tells us how it’s done!

Q:  Firstly, tell us: were you always a boffin at school?

A:  I wouldn't call myself a boffin, but if you define a person that works hard and always tries their best as a boffin then yes, I am one.

Q:  Why did you decide to study what you are studying now and what are your career goals?

A:  I always wanted to become an engineer. From a young age, I always loved to play with things and pull them apart just to enjoy the process of putting it back together. My short term goal is to become a great engineer and to enjoy my work. My long term goals are to work as the head engineer at a well-known company.

Q:  What about your family, are they supportive of your studies? How do they help you?

A:  My family supports me in everything I do. Their support helped me throughout my school career and now also during my university studies. Through bad and good times, I can always talk to my parents and ask for their advice or just chat about things that are bothering me.

Q:  So what is your secret to getting good marks?

A:  Study hard and spend as much time as needed on your work. If needed, ask for help and don’t linger on something that you don’t understand.

Q: What was the transition like for you when you made the move from secondary to tertiary education?

A: To be honest the work load increased a great deal but with help from my family and friends, the transition was easier. I also had to put more time into my work and the rewards of great marks was well worth it!

Q:  Do you have a mentor or someone you can turn to for advice if things get a little bit too much?

A:  Yes, I have a friend that works as an engineer at the company that I work for part time. He is always there if I need assistance or help with my work. We also have family friends who are qualified engineers who often give me advice as well.

Q: What are your tips for memorising information?

A:  Break the work down into segments and explain it to yourself over and over again. This really worked well for me throughout high school and now at university.

Q: What’s your personal philosophy when it comes to work and study?

A:  Put the necessary hours in and you will reap the benefits!

Q: What about your social life? Do you make time for friends and family? What do you like to do in your free time?

A: I always make time for my social life; I believe it has to be balanced out. I love going out with my friends and having a good time. I also exercise and enjoy being active and in the outdoors.

Q:  Any final words of advice for all the students out there struggling with their marks?

A:  Never be afraid to ask for advice and guidance. A person who asks questions will get ahead in life than a person who struggles in silence. 

Individuality Vs Conformity – Where Do You Fit In?

Whether you are in school, college or university, we are sure you are well aware of the social pressures that you might have to face on a daily basis. The question remains, do you focus on being yourself and developing your own unique flavour, or do you choose to blend in?

This week we take a look at what challenges you might face during this time of your life:

Scenario 1: You are in grade seven and you have to decide on your subject choice. Would you              

  a)   Choose a subject because you want to be in a class with your friends?

  b)   Choose a subject based on the fact that you enjoy the subject and because it will contribute to what you would like to be one day?

Scenario 2: You have to get dressed for casual day. Would you

  a)   Dress in what you are comfortable in

  b)   Beg your parents for a new outfit because “I just cannot be seen wearing this”

Scenario 3: You have to choose where you want to further your tertiary studies. Would you

  a)   Choose to study at a college or university (even though they don’t offer your course) because “that is where everyone is going”?

  b)   Carefully consider all your options after researching several colleges or universities that offer a course in your line of interest?

Scenario 4: You have to submit a project plan for your course. Would you

  a)   Research current trends?

  b)  Try and think of new ways of doing things?

It is often considered easier to conform rather than to be yourself, but whether you are choosing your studies or deciding what to wear for the day, just keep in mind that it is probably best to remain true to yourself! Think about your choices carefully and when it comes to any choices that will affect your future, it might be best to ask all the right questions:

• What am I good at?
• What do I enjoy?
• What career would I like to follow?
• What are my strengths?
• What are my weaknesses?

Talk to your family and friends – you may be surprised to find out what they believe you are good at! It might also be a good idea to visit the school, college or university counselor to find out how they can help you too. Many institutions offer aptitude testing that can help you to identify your skills and strengths in order to establish what field you might want to consider studying in!

Year Of The Artisan &Skills-Based Education: How To Become A Mechanic

This year has been declared the “Year of the Artisan and Skills-Based Education” by government, to promote the diplomas and courses offered by Further Education and Training (FET) colleges in South Africa. This month we will be looking at what it means to become a mechanic and what you will have to study to qualify as one.

A mechanic has a passion for solving problems, enjoys working with his hands, finding faults and fixing them. Becoming a mechanic is hard work and requires commitment and dedication to training, whether it is via apprenticeship or whether you gain a qualification from one of the many universities and colleges offering a degree or diploma that you can study in order to become a mechanic.

Mechanics are responsible for maintaining machinery, repairing faulty parts and ensuring that machinery works as intended. Mechanics can work on cars as well as various other vehicles (like motorcycles, trucks and tractors for instance) as well as commercial or manufacturing machinery.

Mechanics may work in an industrial environment, in a workshop or garage or they can even be self-employed. Small companies often employ mechanics to look after the day-to-day working of their machinery or larger companies could employ a mechanic to look after their fleet of vehicles or larger pieces of equipment.

What do I have to do to become a mechanic?

There are various options for you to consider if you would like to become a mechanic:

·         You can study at a Further Education Training college or university. Various colleges and universities offer degrees, certificates and diplomas in mechanics or engineering.

·         You can enroll with a certified apprenticeship programme. An apprenticeship programme lasts for four years and provides you with plenty practical experience ahead of your trade test.

There is a complete list of schools and colleges listed on Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services Sector Education & Training (MerSETA) website. These schools and colleges adhere to the MerSETA standards and comply with their principles to maintain the best standards in the industry. This website also lists a variety of apprenticeship programmes that you can apply to.

It might also be a good idea to talk to a mechanic or a mechanical specialist to find out how they enjoy their day-to-day activities and to gauge whether it is something that you would like to do.

You can contact Eduloan as soon as you have decided which school or training college you would like to study at and one of our consultants will be able to give you all the information you require to get the financial assistance to realize your dream of becoming a mechanic. For more information or to speak to one of our Eduloan consultants, visit our website www.eduloan.co.za.

I’m Not Just a Student Number – submit your story and stand a chance to win R1 000!

This month, we celebrate South African Youth. 16 June marks national Youth Day, a day we commemorate those who made a difference to the future of South African youth and lead to the fact that each and every South African has a constitutional right to adequate and equal education.

Eduloan is celebrating the individuality of South African students and scholars, recognising the potential in every person. We consider every student’s needs when we put together their student loan package, taking your dreams and ambitions into consideration and working out a payment schedule that will suit you and your pocket!

That’s why we’re asking YOU to give a voice to students all over Southern Africa. We want you to participate in our Not Just a Student Number initiative and submit a thought-provoking article for our blog based on the theme for the month.

Do you want the chance to prove that you’re more than just your student number or a name on a class register? Tell us why you represent the youth of South Africa.

Submit your contribution to competitions@eduloan.co.za before 30 June 2013 and we could select yours as the winning article to be featured on our blog for next month. We also have a R1 000 cash prize to give-away to the winning entry each month, so get your creativity going!

Your blog must fit to the theme of the month and must not be fiction (fic·tion [f k sh n] noun. Writing that is produced by the imagination and is not necessarily based on fact) and it should touch on your viewpoint and life as a student or scholar.

This month’s theme is: I am the youth of tomorrow

Thought Starters (some ideas to get you going):

• This is how I want to make a difference in the future
•  I have made a difference – tell us how you might already have made a difference in your life or someone else’s
• How do you contribute to yourcommunity
• How is your school/college/university helping you to make a difference

Guidelines:

1. Your article must be between 300-500 words long
2.  It must be non-fictional (non·fic·tion [nänˈfikSHən] noun. Writing based on facts, such as biography or  history) and factual
3. Your writing must not be degrading or libelous to any person
4. Your article must have something to do with your life as a student
5. Any piece containing profanity, hate speech or racism will be disqualified
6. Your article could be reproduced in print or web publications on behalf of Eduloan.
7. The judges’ decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into.
8. All articles must be your own work – no plagiarism

      Terms and Conditions apply   

Wanting More

Lerato is the winner of our April Not just a Student number competition. See her winning blog below on our April theme: Wanting more.

I'm a first year student at University of South Africa, studying towards a bachelor’s degree in intermediate and senior phase Education.

The reality of life began after matric in 2012. I wanted more for the future, I began to see life with the naked eye, where I made decisions that will determine my future, where my social-life was nowhere to be found. In the words of my former Mathematics teacher, Ms Mabudu, "focus less on friends, after matric all will take their own path".

As a part-time student it’s never really an easy task, its takes someone with discipline and who knows how to manage their time, but after all I wanted something more challenging. At first, attending workshops with students old enough to be my parents and even grandparents, I felt like "Oh do I really belong here?” But gradually all turned out good, socialising with them helped me to develop mentally.

I always wanted to be in a field dealing with children, but didn't know what career to choose, until grade 12, my former English teacher Mr. N.A Mapodile, asked me to assist him in teaching. That was a life time opportunity! I feel so unique, because most people my age run away from this career and I'm chasing it.

I am not qualified to be a teaher yet, but that doesn't stop me because I want more. I recently joined the Gogo reading project in Daveyton Intermediate School. We offer our time to read books to learners every Friday. The people I'm working with are all qualified teachers, some even retired and that makes me so unique! I'm the youngest of all of them, studying and looking for experience.

I use every opportunity I get because I always want more. I do whatever it takes to be where I want to be and enjoy exploring things that will help me in future.

Student life prepares me for the future, I learn to be independent, how to approach challenges and problems and to take responsibility for my actions.

Regards

Lerato P Selepe

Early Applications For Your First Year Of Tertiary Studies – Don’t Leave It Too Late

Many schools, parents, colleges and universities encourage 2014 students to apply to their chosen tertiary institutions as early as possible. You might be thinking “what is the fuss about?”, mainly because you have tons of 2013 Matric commitments, responsibilities, activities and studies that you might want to focus on. Many colleges and universities open for applications in April and application deadlines can come as soon as 30 July. Here are 6 reasons to get you applying now:

Reason 1: Faster Application Feedback

Because there are less applications being submitted to the administration office, you might get a response a bit sooner. If you apply in June, your application may be submitted along with thousands of other students’ and you might get a delayed response.

Reason 2: Pressure

If you receive early acceptance to your chosen college or university, you will have one less thing to worry about – and an important one at that - when you are trying to prepare for your preliminary or final exams.

Reason 3: Applying For Accommodation

Many colleges and universities only consider applications for student housing and accommodation, once you have been accepted at the institution. If you are planning to study at a college or university away from home, you might need to take the time to plan and make sure you apply early enough to get a spot in student housing or accommodation.

Reason 4: Options

By applying early, you can ensure that you have options available. Many colleges and universities will allow you to change your degree or diploma after being accepted as long as you fulfill the requirements. And, if you change your mind completely, you still have time to do something about it.

Reason 5: Running Out Of Spots

Universities and colleges often have a limited number of places available in the program. This often depends on resources. By applying early, you can be sure that “we are unfortunately full for the current year of study” will not be a reason featured on your application feedback.

Reason 6: Financial Assistance

As soon as you have a letter of acceptance from your college or university, you will be able to contact us to find out how we can assist you. We can give you a study loan to cover your study fees as well as accommodation, textbooks and even a laptop or tablet.

Going To Grade 10 Next Year?

Here’s what’s vital for you to know when picking your subjects

So you’re in grade nine and you can’t wait to choose the subjects that you would like to study from grade 10 to 12. Take time to stop and think carefully about which subjects you are about to choose.

There are three very good reasons to think carefully before you select your subjects:

1.       Your chosen subjects should remain the same throughout grade 10 to 12

2.       You might require certain subjects in order to be legible for a specific course

3.       It is always a good idea to keep your ability or interest in mind when selecting subjects

Your subject choice will impact your future, so bear this in mind when you consider what subjects to choose. These subjects include:

·         Two languages (one should be your home language and the other should be a first additional language)

·         Mathematics or mathematical literacy

·         Life orientation

·         Three other subjects that you can choose from – this list could be up to as many as 29 subjects depending on your school  or college.

Spend time researching so you are well informed before you make your decision. Here is a list of learning fields and the required subjects for each, to give you an idea of the kind of subjects you might need to take. Keep in mind that you must register for a total of 7 subjects and at least one language must be a Home Language.

Learning Fields	Subjects
Science	2 Languages Mathematics Life Orientation Physical Sciences Life Sciences Geography
Agriculture	2 Languages Mathematics Life Orientation Agricultural Sciences 2 of the following: Physical Sciences Life Sciences Geography
Human And Social Studies	2 Languages Mathematics or Mathematical Literacy Life Orientation Geography History Life Sciences
Business Commerce And Management Studies	2 Languages Mathematics orMathematical Literacy Life Orientation Accounting Business Studies Economics

Take time to chat to one of your career counselors at school or take an aptitude test to establish your skills and interest before making any decisions. You can complete our free Career Aptitude test to assess your skills and interests, which will give you an indication of the type of career that you are best fitted for. We cannot guarantee that this fun assessment will match you with your perfect career, but it is a wonderful tool to narrow down your choices and open avenues that you might never have thought to explore!