Non-School Leavers and the National Admission Pool – Opportunities in 2025/2026

The 2025/2026 DHERST Grade 12 national selection highlights significant opportunities for non-school leavers and students placed in the National Admission Pool, offering second-chance pathways to higher education in Papua New Guinea.

Non-School Leavers: A Pathway to Higher Education

Non-school leavers (NSL) are individuals who did not follow the traditional Grade 12 school pathway but wish to access tertiary education. In 2025:

• 8,000 NSL records were received from the Department of Education and matriculation centres

• 2,611 NSL applicants applied through the national selection system

• 8,401 quota spaces were available specifically for NSL students

This means that demand from non-school leavers was lower than available capacity, providing strong opportunities for adults, former students, and other learners to enter universities and colleges. DHERST encourages all NSL applicants to use the National Online Application System to apply and secure available spaces.

National Admission Pool: Ensuring Opportunities for All

The National Admission Pool is a key feature of PNG’s higher education system. Students—including Grade 12 graduates and non-school leavers—are placed in the pool when their preferred programs have already reached full quota.

• 10,750 students were placed in the National Admission Pool in 2025

• Being in the pool does not mean rejection; students remain eligible for programs with unfilled spaces

• Institutions review the pool and issue time-limited offers to students who meet program requirements

• Students must check their My Status page regularly and respond to offers within 5–10 working days

The system ensures that every available space is efficiently allocated and gives students with lower GPAs or unfulfilled first-choice selections a second chance to access higher education.

Academic Context and Access

In 2025:

• The average Grade 12 GPA was 1.9

• Most university programs require around 2.8 GPA

Because some programs were not fully filled, the National Admission Pool allows institutions to consider applicants who meet minimum requirements, including non-school leavers, ensuring fair and wider access to tertiary education.

Support for Students in the Pool

Students in the National Admission Pool are provided with:

• Guidance on how selectors will contact them

• Information from CDE and matriculation centres to upgrade results for future selections

• Access to government scholarships and the Higher Education Loan Program for eligible students

Regional Opportunities

The system also supports regional students:

• 50 places for students from the Solomon Islands

• 20 places for students from Vanuatu in priority programs

KEY STAT: 

Conclusion: Expanding Access and Opportunity

The 2025/2026 selection demonstrates PNG’s commitment to making higher education inclusive and accessible.

Non-school leavers benefit from dedicated quotas and second-chance opportunities, while the National Admission Pool ensures that no available space goes unfilled.

Tertiary Education Study Assistance Scheme (TESAS) Scholarships

Tertiary Education Study Assistance Scheme (TESAS) – Academic Year 2025 For First-Year and Continuing Students Enrolled in Registered Higher Education Institutions

The Department of Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology (DHERST) is pleased to announce the commencement of the Tertiary Education Study Assistance Scheme (TESAS) for the 2025 academic year. This initiative, established under the Higher Education General Provisions Act 2014 (amended in 2020), represents the Government of Papua New Guinea’s (GoPNG) commitment to promoting equitable access to quality higher education through targeted financial support.

Significant Budgetary Allocation for TESAS

In alignment with the policy priorities of the Marape-Rosso Government, the National Budget 2025 has allocated an additional K10 million to TESAS. This investment underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing access to higher education and translates to the following:

• An expansion in the TESAS quota for 2025, providing scholarships to 15,889 awardees, including:

  • 5,251 first-year students selected via the National Online Selection System (NOSS).

  • 631 non-school leavers meeting TESAS requirements.

  • 10,007 continuing students enrolled in TESAS-eligible programs at registered higher education institutions (HEIs).

• Inclusion of students enrolled in recently recognised TESAS-eligible undergraduate programs.

TESAS Award List

The 2025 TESAS awards encompass first-year students selected through the National Online Application System (NOAS) and continuing students enrolled in all recognized HEIs, including universities and colleges.

Supplementary TESAS List

DHERST acknowledges that some HEIs did not submit continuing student reports on time. Consequently, a supplementary TESAS list will be released in late March 2025 after the conclusion of Semester 1 registrations. Institutions failing to submit reports on time are responsible for addressing their students’ concerns regarding TESAS eligibility.

Instructions for TESAS Recipients

• First-Year Students: Awardees have received their TESAS notifications via the NOAS MyStatus portal. Recipients must confirm their acceptance or decline as outlined in their notification. Those eligible for TESAS travel benefits will be notified of their travel arrangements (air, land, or sea) through the same portal.

• Continuing Students: Students not listed on the TESAS award list should consult their respective HEIs for clarification. Self-sponsored students who have been awarded TESAS for 2025 are advised to check their travel itineraries with Air Niugini offices. Travel plans will adhere strictly to destinations provided by HEIs in the prior academic year.

The GoPNG, through DHERST, has fully settled all outstanding TESAS arrears for the 2024 academic year. Disbursement of TESAS payments for Semester 1, 2025, will commence promptly upon the HEI’s full completion of student registrations on the i-PNG register.

Acknowledgment and Encouragement 

DHERST extends its gratitude to the National Government for its continued investment in higher education. We also commend the dedicated efforts of HEI registrars, student data officers, and the DHERST team in ensuring the successful implementation of TESAS.

As we embark on this academic year and celebrate Papua New Guinea’s 50th National Jubilee, we encourage all students to prioritize their studies and strive for excellence.

Congratulations to the TESAS awardees on your achievements. We wish you every success in your academic endeavors.

For further information, please contact DHERST at:

Phone: 3012076, 3012058, 3012048, or 3012070

Email: noassupport@dherst.gov.pg

Professor Fr. Jan Czuba

Acting Secretary

Department of Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology

Related files:

1. 2025 TESAS ANNOUNCEMENT (pdf)

2. 2025 TESAS - NEW INTAKES (pdf)

3. 2025 TESAS - CONTINUING (pdf)

 

Source: DHERST, Released 16th January 2025 - accessed 17th January 2025

CHINESE GOVERNMENT SCHOLARSHIPS 2026 for Papua New Guinea Students (DHERST)

In accordance with the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Higher Educational Cooperation between the Government of the People’s Republic of China and the Government of the Independent State of Papua New Guinea, we are pleased

to announce the Chinese Government Scholarships. This cooperation provides scholarships for Bachelor’s, Master’s and Doctoral Programmes for eligible PNG candidates to study in China for the academic year(s) 2025/2026.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENT:

Applicants for Master’s programmes or Doctoral programmes must be:

• PNG Citizen and in good health
• Under the age of 35 for Master’s programmes, under the age of 40 for Doctoral programmes
• With a Bachelor’s Degree or higher
• Release letter from the employer if employed

Applicants for Bachelor’s programmes must be:

• PNG Citizen and in good health
• Under the age of 25
• a Grade 12 Higher School Certificate with good academic performance of 2.5 GPA or above.

MAIN REQUIREMENT:

Applicants are required to submit CERTIFIED Photocopies of relevant mandatory application documents listed below:

• Printed Online Application Form for Chinese Government Scholarship after online application,
• Copy of Passport Bio Page: Applicant shall submit a clear scanned copy of his/her ordinary passport with validity later than March 1, 2026,
• Notarized Upper Secondary School Certificates (Grade 12) with transcripts (for Bachelor’s programmes), notarized Bachelor’s Degree Certificates with transcripts (for Master’s programmes), notarized Master’s Degree Certificates with transcripts (for Doctoral programmes),
• Pre-Admission Documents. All applicants need to provide a pre-admission document issued by the universities applying. Pre-admission documents include a pre-admission notice issued by the international student's admission department or an invitation letter from the schools or professors,
• A Study Plan or Research Proposal in Chinese or English (A minimum of 200 words for undergraduates, 800 words for postgraduates),
• Applicants for Master’s or Doctoral programmes must submit two letters of recommendation in Chinese or English from professors or associate professors,
• A photocopy of the Foreigner Physical Examination Form completed in English and from a recognized clinic. (The physical examinations should cover all the items listed in the Foreigner Physical Examination Form. Incomplete records or those without the attending physician's signature, the hospital's official stamp or a sealed photograph of the applicants are invalid. Please select the appropriate time to take a physical examination as the result is valid for only 6 months),
• Non-criminal record report (Police Clearance) issued within 6 months before the submission date of the application,
• Language qualification certificates. Applicants for Chinese-taught programmes must submit valid HSK reports under the corresponding Chinese proficiency requirements. Applicants for other language-taught programmes shall provide relevant language proficiency certificates, like IELTS or TOEFL reports, according to the universities’ requirements.
• Applicants under the age of 18 should submit the valid documents of their legal guardians in China,
• A Character Reference Letter from a Parish Priest/Pastor/Church Elder (with a valid contact number),
• Birth Certificate, NID card, Driver’s License.
  Full Application must be submitted in the order of preference listed above.

Priority field of study advised by DHERST:

The Priority areas of study include: sciences, technology, agriculture, medicine, economics, management, education, history, liberal arts and philosophy. (DHERST advises that do not apply for a programme not listed above).

SPECIFIC INSTRUCTION TO APPLY ONLINE:

Visit the “CSC Study in China” website and click “Scholarship Application for Students” at: http://www.campuschina.org. Register an account through [CREATE AN ACCOUNT] and log in with your account. The ‘Programme Category’ is: Type A and the ‘Agency Number’ is: 5981. For more information on universities and the programmes, visit: http://www.campuschina.org/universities/index.html. You can also visit the DHERST website; www.dherst.gov.pg to download the Foreigner Physical Examination Form and Instructions of the Chinese Scholarship Online Application Information System to guide you. Completed Online Application Forms must be downloaded and printed out a copy including all required documents listed above to be sent to:

Department of Higher Education, Research Science & Technology,
PO Box 5117, BOROKO, National Capital District.
Attention: Executive Manager - Grants and Scholarship Division
Email: chinese@dherst.gov.pg

APPLICATION DEADLINE: The applications should reach the office no later than Friday, 24th January, 2025, 4:06pm.

ALL APPLICANTS MUST APPLY ONLINE AND SUBMIT TWO HARD COPIES OF APPLICATION FORM. FAILURE TO APPLY ONLINE WILL AUTOMATICALLY DISQUALIFY YOUR APPLICATION. FAXED AND EMAILED APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.

 PLEASE TAKE NOTE OF THE FOLLOWING IMPORTANT POINTS

Applicants are advised to take heed of the following points before submitting their applications:

1. The Bachelor’s programme is a FULL CHINESE LANGUAGE study programme;
2. The scholarship package for 2025 does NOT include domestic and international travel expenses (going and returning tickets);
3. Please contact the university you are applying to get a pre-admission notice before submitting your online application;
4. DHERST advises that do not apply for programmes that are not specified under the priority areas;
5. If you do not receive any response from DHERST or the Chinese Embassy in PNG after the 20th of April, 2025 then please consider your application as being unsuccessful.
6. Check your email frequently for updates, the university will contact you via email.

CONTACT INFORMATION
For further information, please contact the following telephone number: 3012006 or email: chinese@dherst.gov.pg or visit the website: www.dherst.gov.pg

Documents

1. Authorised notice for "2025/2026 CHINESE SCHOLARSHIPS " [PDF]
2. Instructions for Chinese Government Scholarship Information System (CGSIS) [PDF]
3. FOREIGNER PHYSICAL EXAMINATION FORM [PDF]

NOAS Selection List 2025: Key Dates and Events for Selection, Admission Pool and Publishing of DHERST TESAS LIST

The Department of Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology (DHERST) Grace Period has come to an end and is preparing to release the much-anticipated NOAS Selection List 2025. The Grade 12 students school leavers and non-school leavers applying through the National Online Application System (NOAS) will know their selection status soon. 

 The Grace Period for NOAS applications will officially end on 14th December 2024 at 11:59 PM. This final deadline provides students with the opportunity to make last-minute adjustments to their application choices before the selection process is finalized. 

On 18th December 2024, the Minister for Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology, Hon. Kinoka Hotune Feo, will formally launch the NOAS selection system. This event will see the NOAS system swiftly selecting students within seconds of activation. 

DHERST will publish the NOAS Selection List PDF, including the DHERST TESAS List, on their official website on 20th December 2024. This list will detail the TESAS Awards for both Grade 12 school leavers and non-school leavers for 2025's new intakes to tertiary institutions. 

Students must verify their scholarship status. Those not listed under TESAS as HECAS or AES recipients will be considered self-sponsored students for the year 2025. In addition to the new intakes, DHERST will release the TESAS Awards List for continuing students, providing details on their Higher Education Contribution Assistance Scheme (HECAS) and Academic Excellence Scholarship (AES) status. 

Students not initially selected will be placed in the NOAS Admission Pool, which comprises approximately 6000 spaces. This pool is designated for students who meet the GPA thresholds set by universities and colleges. Students concerned about their GPAs should check their NOAS accounts for their selection status. 

If placed in the Admission Pool, it is essential to readjust school leavers' choices to match the eligibility criteria for available spaces. DHERST has scheduled the publication of selection results for 20th December 2024. 

These results will be accessible through applicants' NOAS accounts under the 'MyStatus' tab. All formal announcements will be disseminated via the NOAS landing page, MyStatus notice board, DHERST social platforms, and authorized press statements.

How to Resolve Issues with NOAS Login Password and Username at ApplyDHERST.GOV.PG Account

Having trouble with your DHERST NOAS login details? You're not alone. Whether it's a forgotten password or username, these issues can be frustrating. 

In this guide, we'll explore how to handle problems related to your DHERST NOAS login password and username for your 2025 account at https://apply.dherst.gov.pg. This guide will help you access your account smoothly and get back to focusing on making your online application. 

If the guide here does not solve your problems, check out the contact details and helpline where you can reach out to DHERST for assistance. 

Grade 12 School Leavers: Recovering Your DHERST NOAS Login Details

Grade 12 school leavers in Papua New Guinea typically receive their DHERST NOAS login credentials, including their Username and Password, through their schools. This essential information is provided in an Invitation Letter, which allows students to access the National Online Application System (NOAS) for further education opportunities.

If you have misplaced or forgotten your password, here’s what you can do:

1. Lost Invitation Letter: 

If the letter containing your Username and Password is lost, consult your School Principal to have the letter reissued.

2. Forgotten Password: 

If you have previously reset your password using the NSR link but have forgotten it, utilise the "Forgot my Password" option on the NOAS login page. This feature will guide you through the necessary steps to create a new password and regain access to your account.

How to Apply Online with NOAS as a Non-School Leaver

For non-school leavers applying through the DHERST NOAS in 2025, this new initiative is an excellent solution. The online application is free and convenient. Here are the steps you need to follow to solve any login issues.

1. Using Your Previous NOAS Credentials

Can You use my old NOAS Username and Password to log in as a Non-School Leaver? No, you cannot use your previous Username and Password. 

To reactivate your account, you must contact DHERST and complete an NSL form. This step is crucial to ensure that your updated academic information is accurately reflected in your application. Follow step 2 to get yourself sorted out.

2. Steps to Apply Online with NOAS as a Non-School Leaver

2. 1. Complete an NSL Form: Obtain the Non-School Leaver (NSL) Form from DHERST and fill it out with your SLF number and other required details.

2.2. Verification: Submit the completed form for verification. After DHERST verifies your details, they will issue an Invitation Letter containing your Username and Password.

2.3. Login and Activate Your Account: Use the Username and Password from the Invitation Letter to log in to the NOAS portal and activate your account. This will allow you to make your program choices starting from mid-October, 2025 (Last year was on the 20th October). This timeline ensures that all matriculation/FODE updates of your academic results are imported into your NOAS account to verify your eligibility for higher education institution (HEI) programs.

VIDEO: Here is how to apply via NOAS as a Non-school Leaver.

ApplyDHERST.GOV.PG Account Login

Successfully managing your DHERST NOAS login details is crucial for both Grade 12 school leavers and non-school leavers. Whether you need to recover a forgotten password or apply for the first time, following the outlined steps will ensure a smooth process.

If you encounter any other issues with your ApplyDHERST.GOV.PG account login, please share them in the comments below. This is the first year of the Non-School Leavers NOAS application, and your input can help others navigate any challenges they may face.

Higher Education Scholarship TESAS Announcement 2024: New Intakes and Continiung Students

The Department of Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology (DHERST) is pleased to officially announce the availability of the Government of Papua New Guinea (GoPNG) Scholarship - Tertiary Education Study Assistance Scheme (TESAS) - for the academic year 2024. 

This declaration extends to all 2024 New Intakes and Continuing Students currently enrolled in recognised Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), including all the PNG Universities and Colleges.

To get more information on How to Apply for HELP, click here. You can also get the latest information on PNG govt in-country scholarships here.

Continuing Students Self-Sponsored Students TESAS Status

For continuing students not featured on the published list, kindly consult your respective HEIs to confirm your TESAS status for the 2024 academic year. This precise information is crucial for a seamless start to the first semester of this year.

Students who were self-sponsored in the previous year and have been granted a scholarship for the current year are strongly advised to verify their travel itinerary at the nearest Air Niugini Office.

In cases where your name is not found on the travel plan, promptly contact DHERST and request travel information. Travel arrangements will strictly adhere to the destinations specified by respective HEIs in the preceding year.

In a display of confidence and intending to alleviate the financial burden on parents regarding school fees, the GoPNG, through DHERST, has successfully settled all outstanding 2023 TESAS arrears owed to HEIs.

TESAS Payments for Semester 1, 2024

Disbursements for TESAS payments for Semester 1, 2024, are scheduled to be processed promptly after the completion of registration.

Lists will be diligently compiled and submitted to DHERST, ensuring the timely and efficient distribution of financial support to eligible students.

It is crucial to note that Semester 2, 2024 TESAS payments are contingent upon HEIs providing Semester 2 Registration lists and, importantly, the requisite acquittals for Semester 1, 2024. All students must submit the required documentation to secure their govt scholarship and get continued support in their studies.

This also applies to the PNG Govt HELP program, more information here.

For further information or clarification

In conclusion, students are strongly encouraged to channel their focus on academic pursuits. The GoPNG extends heartfelt congratulations on the dedication and hard work demonstrated. Best wishes for a successful academic year.

Please do not hesitate to contact us at the following telephone numbers: 3012076 or 3012058/3012048/3012070, or via email at info@dherst.gov.pg.

Source: DHERST (PDF, Tertiary Education Study Assistance Scheme, TESAS)

Grade 12 Selection Lists for PNG Tertiary Institutions 2025 DHERST

The Department of Higher Education, Research, Science, and Technology (DHERST) has released the National Selection results, marking a significant milestone in the selection process conducted through the National Online Selection System (NOSS). It is important to note that the Grade 12 selection lists for PNG Tertiary Institutions do not include the TESAS status of students. Grade 12 students will need to confirm their scholarship status in their NOAS accounts. More information is provided below.

Selection List for All Universities and Colleges here.

PNG Tertiary Institutions 2025 Successful Applicants

Here is what DHERST said about the students on the Grade 12 selection Lists for PNG Tertiary Institutions 2025:

• Seamless Transition: Your application details have been securely transmitted to your chosen Higher Education Institution (HEI), facilitating a smooth onboarding process.

• Official Admissions Offer: Expect to receive an admissions offer letter directly from your selected HEI outlining acceptance procedures, important dates, and any additional requirements.

• Potential TESAS Eligibility: Congratulations if your chosen program qualifies for the Tertiary Education Student Assistance Scheme (TESAS)! Check your TESAS status on the NOAS platform (apply.dherst.gov.pg) by the third week of January 2025 for scholarship details.

For Non-Selected Applicants

• Admissions Pool Consideration: Your application remains active in the NOSS Admissions Pool. Should any HEIs have vacancies after the National Selections, your application may still be considered. Regularly check your MyStatus section on the NOAS platform from December 2024 to March 2025 for updates.

• FODE Second-chance Pathway: If your GPA falls below 2.0, consider upgrading your Grade 12 marks and apply as non-school leavers. Remember, the path to tertiary education remains open through the FODE and open learning pathways.

DHERST Grade 12 Selection (NOAS & NOSS)

The Department of Higher Education (DHERST) applauds all successful applicants and encourages those not selected to explore alternative avenues to realise their academic aspirations. 

If you have any questions, you can call our helpline or visit our website for more information.

Best wishes to all new tertiary students embarking on their academic journey in 2025!

DHERST Admission Pool Guide for Grade 12 Selections

The Admission Pool is a crucial part of the Grade 12 selection process, offering a chance for qualified students to secure admission into their desired programs. This guide breaks down the details of the DHERST Admission Pool to help applicants make informed decisions and increase their chances of success.

Understanding the DHERST Admission Pool

The DHERST Admission Pool includes Grade 12 applicants who meet the minimum eligibility criteria for their chosen programs but were not initially offered admission due to limited spaces. 

This pool of students acts as a dynamic reservoir, providing a second opportunity for deserving students to enter their preferred academic paths.

Steps for Grade 12 School Leavers in the Admission Pool

1. Regularly Check Your Account: Applicants should consistently monitor their NOAS accounts for updates on their admission status. Respond promptly to any requests for additional information or clarifications.

2. Reactivate Program Choices: Carefully review available program options and reactivate choices that align with the requirements of institutions with unfilled spaces. Strategic adjustments can improve the chances of admission.

3. Be Patient and Persistent: The DHERST Admission Pool is an ongoing process. Applicants should be patient as the situation evolves and remain persistent and hopeful throughout the selection process.

Admission Pool Facts

1. Transparency: The DHERST Admission Pool maintains high standards of transparency, ensuring that the selection process is free from nepotism, bribery, or corruption. Meritocracy is the guiding principle.

2. Efficiency: The system is designed for exceptional efficiency, with student names reaching institutions within seconds. This promptness streamlines the decision-making process for timely placements.

3. Fairness: Every applicant in the DHERST Admission Pool has an equal opportunity to secure admission. The system is unbiased, ensuring a level playing field for all.

Watch this video to know more about the Admission Pool:

PNG Insight has been following the selection process for a long time, offering valuable insights, updates, and resources to empower students, parents, and educators. Our commitment to providing educational information includes the exam results and selections and DHERST Admission Pool.

Note that PNG Insight is an education and development blog, we are not affiliated with DHERST. We aim to help applicants navigate the exam and selection processes with confidence and achieve their academic goals.

If you have any questions pertaining to education and development in Papua New Guinea that you would like us to address, please leave a comment below.

Development and Implementation of DHERST Online Selection - An Effective Solution

The National Online Selection System (NOAS), led by the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST), reflects the nation's dedication to a transparent, efficient higher education system. 

Introduced in 2018, this system has changed the selection process, replacing the manual, time-consuming method with an electronic platform. 

The new system empowers students and streamlines administrative procedures, marking a significant shift towards a more accessible and modern approach to higher education selection.

Join PNG Insight on YouTube:

Changes in Education Sector Demands Proactive Leadership

The PNG education sector is going through major changes in curriculum and structure. These changes affect educational outcomes. Since 2018, DHERST adopted an online application and selection system. This proactive move is invaluable. It ensures the selection process adapts to the evolving needs of the country's education system.

A cornerstone of the PNG Higher Education Selection System is its in-house online platform, fully controlled by DHERST officers. This localised solution, with its dedicated local URL, offers several advantages over outsourced alternatives. 

By maintaining control over the platform, DHERST ensures data security, privacy, and adherence to PNG's education policies. Moreover, the platform's robustness and sustainability have been demonstrated through its resilience in the face of external pressures, such as changes in leadership and increasing numbers of applicants.

If you are a Grade 12 students in the Admission Pool, here is what you need to know.

Development and Implementation of DHERST Online Selection

The development and implementation of the PNG Higher Education Selection System underscore the visionary leadership of Professor Fr Jan Czuba, the Secretary of DHERST. 

Despite facing political challenges that led to his temporary removal from office, the system continued to function, albeit not as effectively as under his direct guidance. 

With his reinstatement following a lengthy court battle, Professor Czuba has reclaimed his position and is committed to continuing his dedication to serving the people of PNG through his role as DHERST Secretary.

NOAS is a Sustainable Online Platform

The PNG Higher Education Selection System stands as a testament to Professor Czuba's well-thought-out, planned, and executed vision. This transparent, effective, and efficient selection system has become an integral part of the PNG education landscape, empowering students and streamlining administrative processes. 

As the country continues to embrace technological advancements, the selection system is poised to evolve further, enhancing its ability to support PNG's aspirations for a world-class higher education system.

In this video, the DHERST secretary gives intricate details of the NOAS: 

DHERST Online Form: What is "My Back Up Programmes" and "My Eligible Programmes"

The DHERST online form is the 'doorway' for Grade 12 school leavers to enter higher education in Papua New Guinea. Amidst the application process, two terms often elicit confusion and require clarification: "My Back Up Programmes" and "My Eligible Programmes." This article aims to clarify the complexities of these terms and empower applicants to make informed decisions.

If you are a Grade 12 students in the Admission Pool, here is what you need to know.

1. "My Back Up Programmes" on DHERST Online Form

"My Back Up Programmes" serves as a strategic safety net, providing applicants with a list of alternative program options in the event that their top choices are not attainable. 

These programs should align with both academic capabilities and personal interests, ensuring a sense of security and flexibility in the application process.

The Significance of Back-Up Programmes:

1. Enhanced Admission Chances: By including Back Up Programmes, applicants significantly increase their likelihood of securing a place in a tertiary institution, expanding their opportunities beyond their initial preferences.

2. Adaptability and Exploration: Back Up programmes offer adaptability in case academic performance or priorities shift. They also provide a platform for exploring diverse fields of study and potential career paths.

Choosing Back Up Programmes

1. Academic Alignment: Ensure that your subject combinations meet the minimum requirements for your Back Up Programmes, maintaining academic feasibility.

2. Personal Interests and Career Aspirations: Align Back Up Programmes with your interests and career goals, even if they are not your primary choices, fostering a sense of fulfilment and purpose.

3. Thorough Research and Exploration:** Conduct in-depth research on the programs and institutions, gaining valuable insights and making informed decisions.

2.  My Eligible Programmes"

"My Eligible Programmes" presents a comprehensive list of programs tailored to applicants' academic profiles, considering their performance and subject combinations.

These programs represent a suitable fit for their academic capabilities and aspirations.

Accessing Eligible Programmes:

1. DHERST NOAS Portal Access: Log in to the DHERST NOAS portal using your designated credentials.

2. Navigating to "My Eligible Programme": Seamlessly navigate to the "My Eligible Programme" interface within the portal.

3. Reviewing Program Requirements: Carefully review the list of programs and their respective requirements, ensuring a thorough understanding of expectations.

The Value of Eligible Programmes:

1. Focused Application Efforts: Eligible Programmes guide applicants towards programs that match their academic strengths, optimising their application strategy.

2. Realistic Expectations: They prevent applicants from applying to programs that exceed their current academic capabilities, setting realistic expectations and avoiding potential disappointment.

If you do not agree with your Grade 12 marks, here is how to ask for Re-marking and re-checking. (Click on the Image)

3. Additional Tips for DHERST Program Applications

• Diligent Program Requirements Review: Dedicate ample time to understanding the requirements for each program listed in "My Eligible Programme."

• Seeking Guidance and Advice: Engage in discussions with the school deputy principal, class patron or teachers to gain valuable insights and recommendations regarding program choices.

• Prioritisation Based on Interests and Strengths: Rank programs according to your interests and academic strengths, ensuring a balanced approach to decision-making.

• Attentive Form Completion: Complete the online application form with utmost care and attention, ensuring accuracy and timely submission.

• Regular Portal Updates: Regularly check the DHERST NOAS portal for important announcements and updates, staying informed throughout the application process.

• Exam Results & Grace Period: Take note of the release of the Grade 12 exam results and the duration of the Grace Period when aligning your choices with the institutions' expectations.

Conclusion (DHERST Online Form)

By knowing the differences between "My Back Up Programmes" and "My Eligible Programmes," applicants can navigate the DHERST online form with confidence, making informed decisions that align with their academic capabilities, personal interests, and career aspirations. 

Remember to seek guidance, and approach the application process with a strategic mindset. Best of luck in your pursuit of higher education!