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Best Student loans in South Africa in 2026-Including interest rates

Looking for an institution to further your studies is hard and very competitive. But not as hard as trying to source funding for said studies.  Here’s a clear and up-to-date look at the best student loan options in South Africa and their typical interest rates — so you can plan your education funding with confidence in 2026.  1. NSFAS – Government-Backed Student Funding Best for: Students from low-income families attending public universities or TVET colleges.  Key features Interest: Very low (typically around 80% of the repo rate , which is much lower than bank loans) — if you qualify for a loan rather than a bursary.  Repayment: Only starts after you graduate and are earning above a set income threshold (often around R30 000/year). Bonus: A portion becomes a bursary (no repayment) if you pass your modules!  Coverage: Tuition, accommodation, meals, and learning materials.  Why choose NSFAS? This is typically the most affordable option — especially...

10 Practical Ways to live frugally

Living frugally involves conscious spending, resourcefulness, and smart financial choices to make the most of your resources while maintaining a comfortable lifestyle. 

10 Practical frugal living tips. Budget. Budgeting. Frugality. Minimalistic lifestyle
source: pexel

Here are some tips to help you live frugally:

 1. Budgeting and Tracking Expenses

Creating a budget is the foundation of frugal living. Record all sources of income and categorize your expenses. Analyze your spending patterns to identify areas where you can cut back.


 2. Minimalism and Decluttering:

Adopt a minimalist lifestyle by decluttering your living space. Sell or donate items you no longer need or use. This not only frees up space but can also provide extra funds.


 3. Cooking at Home

Eating out frequently can significantly impact your finances. Learn to cook simple, nutritious meals at home, and meal-prep to avoid the temptation of dining out.

 4. Saving and Investing

Develop a habit of saving a portion of your income regularly. Consider opening a savings account or investing in low-risk options to grow your money. The earlier you start, the more you'll benefit from compound interest.

10 Practical Ways to live frugally


 5. DIY and Repurposing

Embrace a do-it-yourself approach whenever possible. Repair, repurpose, or refurbish items instead of immediately replacing them. This can save a substantial amount of money in the long run.

 6. Shop Smart and Use Coupons

Look for discounts, sales, and coupons when shopping for essentials. Compare prices and opt for generic or store-brand products, which are often cheaper but of similar quality.

 7. Energy Efficiency

Conserve energy to reduce utility bills. Turn off lights and appliances when not in use, use energy-efficient bulbs, and insulate your home to lower heating and cooling costs.


 8. Public Transportation and Carpooling

Use public transportation, carpool, or bike to save on fuel and maintenance costs. Consider walking for short distances to both save money and improve your health.

Here are effective ways to save money on Petrol 

 9. Negotiate and Haggle

Don't hesitate to negotiate prices, especially for big purchases. Ask for discounts, shop during sales, and compare prices from different sellers before making a decision.

 10. Find Entertainment Alternatives

Find free or low-cost entertainment options like community events, parks, libraries, or hiking. Cancel unused subscriptions and prioritize activities that don't strain your budget.

Living frugally is about finding a balance between enjoying life and being mindful of your spending. By implementing these practices, you can save money, reduce waste, and achieve financial stability.


Keywords: frugal living, budgeting, minimalism, cooking at home, saving and investing.