Many students across South Africa work hard to complete their studies, only to face a major setback: their institution refuses to release their results because of unpaid fees.
This situation can be frustrating, especially when your future plans depend on getting your academic results or qualification. If you’re in this position, you might be asking, “Can Fundi help me if my institution refuses to release my results due to unpaid fees?”
The answer depends on a few important factors.
Why Some Institutions Refuse to Release Student Results
Understanding Financial Holds
When a student owes money to a university, college, or any educational institution, the school can place what is known as a financial hold on their academic account. This hold stops the student from receiving their results, academic transcript, or graduation certificate or even from registering for the next semester.
Common types of unpaid fees include:
- Outstanding tuition fees
- Library fines
- Residence or hostel fees
- Student union or admin charges
- Lab and practical fees
Impact on Academic and Career Progress
When your results are withheld, it affects much more than just your academic progress. It can create delays in:
- Graduating on time
- Applying for jobs that require proof of results
- Applying for further studies or bursaries
- Receiving professional licenses in some careers
It also adds emotional stress and pressure, especially when you know you’ve completed your studies but cannot prove it.
Who Qualifies for Fundi Support?
Students who can apply for or receive support through Fundi include:
- Students with bursaries managed by Fundi
- NSFAS students whose funding is managed by Fundi
- Students who have taken out a Fundi student loan
- Employees receiving corporate educational sponsorships through Fundi
If your funding is handled by Fundi, you stand a better chance of getting help when fees are unpaid.
Can Fundi Help If My Results Are Withheld Due to Fees?
Fundi’s Role in Financial Disputes
Fundi can help, but only under specific conditions. Fundi cannot force a university or college to release your results, but they can help resolve financial issues that are causing the hold.
Here’s what Fundi can do:
- Check if your current funding covers the outstanding fees
- Pay the institution directly if the funds are available
- Work with the bursar or sponsor to resolve the issue
- Offer additional support (if applicable) through top-up funding
Here’s what Fundi cannot do:
- Pay fees automatically without approval
- Intervene in cases where you are not a Fundi-funded student
- Force your institution to release results if no funds are available
Conditions Under Which Fundi Can Intervene
You will need to meet these conditions for Fundi to assist:
- You must already be funded through Fundi.
- The institution must be registered with Fundi or recognised as a partner.
- The fees owed must fall under your approved funding category.
- Your Fundi wallet or bursary account must have funds available.
If all these conditions are met, Fundi can talk to the institution and process the necessary payment — leading to the release of your results.
What You Can Do If Your Results Are Being Withheld
If your institution refuses to release your results, here’s a practical step-by-step action plan:
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Contact Your Institution’s Finance Office
– Ask for a written statement showing what you owe and why your results are on hold. - Confirm the Breakdown of Outstanding Fees
– Request a detailed breakdown of the fees (e.g., tuition, library fines, accommodation). - Check Your Fundi Wallet or Funding Status
– Log in to your Fundi account or call Fundi’s helpline to check your available balance. - Apply for Additional Support If Needed
– Some bursary programs managed by Fundi allow students to request extra support in emergencies. - Submit a Motivation Letter
– Write a formal letter to your bursary or sponsor explaining your situation and requesting help. - Speak to a Fundi Representative
– Fundi can communicate with your school and work on a resolution — especially if they manage your bursary.
Ways to Avoid Having Results Withheld in the Future
To avoid this kind of challenge in future, here are some practical tips:
- Track your account balance regularly on the Fundi app or student portal
- Keep all receipts of payments made to your school
- Set reminders for fee deadlines
- Don’t use funds for items outside your funding agreement
- Stay in touch with your bursary manager or sponsor
- Ask for financial counselling early if you face money trouble
Will Fundi Ever Pay My Outstanding Fees Automatically?
Fundi does not automatically cover unpaid fees unless:
- The fees are within your approved bursary or funding contract
- Your sponsor or bursary allows for “top-up” funding
- There’s still money left in your student wallet or allocation
If these conditions are met, Fundi can process a payment to your school. In most cases, though, you will need to submit a formal request or go through your bursary sponsor first.
Conclusion
Can Fundi help you if your institution refuses to release your results because of unpaid fees? Yes, Fundi can help — but only if you are an approved Fundi beneficiary and the unpaid fees fall under your funding contract.
While Fundi cannot force your school to release your results, they can work with both you and the institution to sort out any financial blocks, offer guidance, and process payments if possible.
If your results are being withheld, don’t panic. Follow the steps in this guide, contact your institution, and speak to Fundi for support. With clear communication and the right support, you can still unlock your academic future and move forward confidently.