The Royal Bafokeng Institute (RBI) has launched its Student Loan Programme to support Royal Bafokeng Nation citizens pursuing undergraduate studies at public universities in North West and Gauteng provinces. This initiative aims to break financial barriers, providing students with the opportunity to achieve their academic goals and shape their futures.
Application Period
Applications for the 2025 academic year are open from 1 August to 30 September 2025.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the RBI Student Loan, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- South African Citizenship: The applicant must be a South African citizen and a verified member of the Royal Bafokeng Nation.
- Financial Need: Applicants must demonstrate financial need based on their household income.
- NSFAS Application: Proof of NSFAS application or submission of an application within seven days of the opening of the 2026 NSFAS window.
- Academic Performance: An Admission Point (AP) score of 30 or above, excluding Life Orientation.
- University Acceptance: The applicant must have been accepted into an accredited public university in either the North West or Gauteng provinces.
For further guidance on calculating your AP score, visit the official RBI website.
Application Process
- Apply to a University: Apply early to your university of choice in the North West or Gauteng Provinces.
- Obtain the Application Form: Download the application form from the RBI website or collect it from the RBI campus in Phokeng.
- Submit Required Documents:
- Certified copy of your ID (not older than 3 months)
- Latest available Grade 11 or 12 results
- Certified final Grade 12 results (if applicable)
- Proof of NSFAS application
- Academic transcript (for current university students)
- Recommendation letter from your Kgosana
- Parent’s payslip or affidavit if unemployed
- University acceptance letter (required when finalising the loan)
Fields of Study Supported
The RBI Student Loan Programme supports the following fields of study:
- Health Sciences (Note: BSc in Medical Science and Acupuncture are not supported)
- Bachelor of Commerce (BCom):
- Accountancy
- Auditing
- Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.):
- Foundation Phase
- Senior/FET Phase (Mathematics is compulsory for B.Ed in Senior Phase or Further Education and Training)
- Specialisation in Mathematics and Physical Science or Accountancy, Technology, Engineering Drafts and Design, or English/Setswana is required
- Studies must be pursued through the Akanyang Centre for Teaching in Phokeng
- Bachelor of Arts (BA):
- Social Work
- Fine Arts (only if studied at a University of Technology)
- Engineering
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
How to Calculate Your AP Score
For applicants applying to undergraduate programmes, calculating your Admission Point (AP) score is a crucial step. Your AP score determines whether you meet the minimum entry requirements for your chosen course. Visit the RBI website for detailed information on how to calculate your AP score.
Need Assistance?
For further information or if you need help with your application, the RBI team is ready to assist you.
- Contact Number: +27 (0)14 566 1400
- Email Address: rbienquiries@bafokeng.com
- Office Address: Sun City Road (R565), Salema, Phokeng 0335
- Website: www.bafokenginstitute.org.za
The RBI Student Loan Programme is an incredible opportunity for Royal Bafokeng Nation citizens to pursue higher education without being hindered by financial limitations. With comprehensive support and a clear application process, the RBI is committed to empowering future leaders and helping them achieve academic success.
Check also: IMESA Bursary Programme 2026