Royal Bafokeng Institute (RBI) Student Loan Programme

The Royal Bafokeng Institute (RBI) offers a student loan programme to support members of the Royal Bafokeng Nation pursuing undergraduate studies at accredited public universities in the North West and Gauteng provinces. The programme aims to alleviate financial barriers and empower students to achieve their academic and professional goals.

Fields of Study Covered

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):
  Supported streams:
  • Accountancy
  • Auditing
• Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.):
  Supported degrees:
  • Foundation Phase
  • Senior/FET Phase
    Note: For Senior/FET Phase, specialisation in Mathematics and Physical Science, Accountancy, Technology, Engineering Drafting and Design, or English/Setswana is required.
• Bachelor of Arts (BA):
  Supported streams:
  • Social Work
  • Fine Arts (only if studied at a University of Technology)
• Engineering
• Bachelor of Laws (LLB)

Who Can Apply

To be eligible for the RBI Student Loan, applicants must:

• Be a South African citizen and a bona fide member of the Royal Bafokeng Nation
• Demonstrate proven financial need based on household income
• Submit proof of NSFAS application or do so within seven days after the NSFAS application window opens for 2026
• Have an Admission Point (AP) score of 30 or above, excluding Life Orientation
• Be accepted into an accredited public university in North West or Gauteng provinces

Application Process

1. Apply to a university in North West or Gauteng provinces as early as possible.
2. Download the RBI Student Loan Application Form from the official website or collect it at the RBI Campus in Phokeng.
3. Submit the completed form with the following documents:
   • Certified copy of ID (not older than 3 months)
   • Grade 11 or 12 results (latest available)
   • 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)

Application Period: 1 August – 30 September 2025

Final Thoughts

The RBI Student Loan Programme provides an invaluable opportunity for Royal Bafokeng Nation members to pursue higher education without the burden of financial constraints. By offering financial support, the programme aims to foster academic excellence and contribute to the development of skilled professionals within the community.