It means a spot has been reserved for you in the course you have applied for, but there are still a few essential steps to take before your place in the programme is officially secured. So, what's next? Instead of just celebrating (though you should definitely do that too!), here's a checklist of what to do now to ensure a smooth transition from high school into university life.
1. Understand the conditions of your acceptance
This is the most crucial step. Read your provisional acceptance letter carefully. "Provisional" acceptance means your admission is dependent upon you meeting certain requirements, such as maintaining a specific Applicant Score (AS) & subject % pass in your final Gr12 NSC/IEB exams or submitting your official transcripts if you are transferring from another institution.
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Review the fine print: Look for any specific conditions mentioned in the letter. Do you need to complete a visit to a specific facility, submit a portfolio, finalise an audition/interview or attend online sessions? Also, are there any specific subjects you need to pass with a certain percentage?
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Meet the deadlines: Take note of all the important dates, including deadlines for submitting final documents, accepting your offer, and paying any initial down payments. Missing a deadline could jeopardize your admission.
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Contact the Student Access and Enrolment Office: If you have any questions or are unsure about any of the conditions, don't hesitate to reach out to the university's admissions office. They are there to help and can clarify any questions you still might have.
2. Make your final decision ASAP
If you applied to multiple universities, you might have more than one provisional acceptance. Now is the time to weigh your options and make an informed choice.
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Revisit your research: Go back to the reasons you applied to each institution. Consider factors like the specific programme, campus life, accessibility. location, and the opportunities available.
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Compare potential financial aid packages (if any): Carefully review any financial aid packages, merit awards, or scholarship offers you might receive from each institution. Don't be afraid to reach out to the financial aid office to discuss your options.
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Trust your gut: After all the research and discussions you have done over the past few months, think about where you can truly see yourself thriving. A university is about more than just academics; it's about the entire experience.
3. Prepare for the practicalities of university life
Once you've decided on a university, it's time to start preparing for the logistical side of things.
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Access resources online: Most universities will have a dedicated online webpage for new students, which will be populated with relevant info you need to know throughout the year. This is where you'll find important information about registration, orientation, student housing deadlines, down payments and more. Make sure you familiarise yourself with this page and regularly check for any updates.
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Sort out your student housing: Whether you'll be living on-campus or off-campus in a shared apartment, or house, start looking into your housing options and deadlines as soon as possible. As space is limited and options closer to campus are always in high demand, you’ll need to secure your accommodation ASAP.
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Work on a budget: University is expensive. Take this time to create a budget. Consider tuition, accommodation, travel, books, food, as well as any other living expenses.
4. Take time for yourself
Now is a perfect opportunity for you to take some time to focus on yourself and your own personal goals.
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Enjoy your free time: You've been working hard. Take a well-deserved break! Spend time with family and friends, explore new hobbies, and relax before this next chapter begins.
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Consider a gap year: If you're not ready to jump straight into university, a gap year can be a valuable experience. Use it to travel, work, or gain practical experience that will benefit you when you do start. Enquire if it would be possible for you to defer your offer or if it will mean that you will lose your place at university? If it is the latter, don’t worry, you can always apply again. Possibly for a course or field of study which is more aligned to your new outlook or interest.
No matter the direction you opt to take, a provisional acceptance is a fantastic start, but it's not the finish line. By staying on top of the requirements and using this time to prepare, you'll be well on your way to a successful and exciting university journey.
