In South Africa, the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), the public broadcaster, relies on TV licence fees to fund its operations. According to the SABC Act, “Any person who possesses or uses a television receiving set in the Republic shall pay a television licence fee.” This means that anyone who owns or uses a television set in South Africa is legally obligated to pay a TV licence fee.
The current annual TV licence fee in South Africa is R265. There are a number of ways to pay your TV licence fee, including online, through a mobile app, or at any major retail store. You can also apply for a discount or exemption if you are eligible.
Exemptions from TV licence fees
The following individuals or entities are exempt from paying TV licence fees in South Africa:
- Public schools: The only educational institutions exempt from the legal requirement of having a television licence are public schools.
- Disabled persons: Disabled persons who are unable to pay the full TV licence fee may apply for a discount or exemption.
- Elderly persons: Senior citizens who are receiving a pension or other government benefit may be eligible for a discount or exemption.
Penalty for not paying TV licence fees
If you are found to be in possession of a television set without a valid TV licence, you may be liable for a penalty of double the licence fee. In addition, you may be required to pay the outstanding licence fee and any additional penalties.
How to apply for a TV licence
To apply for a TV licence, you can visit the SABC website or call the SABC TV Licence Hotline on 0860 100 300. You will need to provide your name, address, and the serial number of your television set. You will also need to pay the annual TV licence fee.
The future of TV licences in South Africa
There has been some debate about the future of TV licences in South Africa. Some people believe that the SABC should find a new funding model, such as advertising or sponsorships. Others believe that the TV licence is a necessary way to support the SABC and ensure that it continues to provide public service broadcasting.
Overview of Public Universities in South Africa
Here's an overview of some public universities in South Africa, including general admissions requirements and estimated application periods. Keep in mind, specific program requirements and dates can vary significantly, so it's important to check each university's official website for the most current information.
University of Pretoria
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with minimum scores in specific subjects related to the chosen program; for international students, equivalent qualifications.
- Application Period: Usually opens in March and closes at the end of July for most programs.
University of Cape Town
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with pass levels required for degree study; subject-specific requirements depending on the program.
- Application Period: Application opens in April and closes at the end of July.
Stellenbosch University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required marks; some programs have additional testing.
- Application Period: Opens in March and typically closes at the end of June.
University of the Witwatersrand
- Admissions Requirements: Matriculation certificate with university exemption; required scores vary by faculty.
- Application Period: Begins in March and ends on the 30th of September.
University of Johannesburg
- Admissions Requirements: Matric exemption with a minimum APS score; specific subject requirements based on the faculty.
- Application Period: Opens in April and generally closes by the 30th of September.
University of the Free State
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific marks for the program applied to; additional requirements for certain courses.
- Application Period: Typically opens in April and closes at the end of August.
University of Venda
- Admissions Requirements: Completion of the National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for diploma or degree studies; specific APS scores needed.
- Application Period: Usually from May to September.
University of Fort Hare
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; certain programs may have specific requirements.
- Application Period: Opens around May and closes at the end of September.
University of the Western Cape
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific performance levels; additional requirements for certain programs.
- Application Period: Generally from May to September.
North-West University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; program-specific requirements may apply.
- Application Period: Opens in March and usually closes by the end of August.
Rhodes University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate or equivalent; minimum academic performance in certain subjects.
- Application Period: Applications open in April and close at the end of September.
Nelson Mandela University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; portfolio or additional tests for some faculties.
- Application Period: Opens in April, with a deadline at the end of August for most programs.
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores; additional requirements for certain courses.
- Application Period: Opens in May and typically closes by the end of September.
University of Limpopo
- Admissions Requirements: Senior Certificate with endorsement for diploma or degree courses; specific APS scores for different programs.
- Application Period: From April to September.
University of Zululand
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for bachelor’s degree studies; specific score requirements for various programs.
- Application Period: Usually between April and November.
Central University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores for the chosen field of study; additional criteria for certain programs.
- Application Period: Application period generally starts in May and ends in October.
Vaal University of Technology
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with a pass that qualifies for admission to bachelor’s degree, diploma, or higher certificate programs.
- Application Period: Typically from May to September.
Walter Sisulu University
- Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; additional criteria for certain faculties.
- Application Period: From April to September.
This list provides a starting point for understanding the admissions landscape across South Africa's diverse higher education institutions. Given the variability in programs and requirements, it's crucial to consult each university's website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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