Such a disappointment- miscommunication and apathy from Varsity College.

From my interview and communication prior to applying to Varsity College (Waterfall and Sandton) I really thought that the issues plaguing the institution were similar to those found at other universities but I was wrong. I should've taken it as a red flag when the student advisor at VC Sandton couldn't answer many of the questions I had about fees and the university. Instead of going on to ask someone who would know and then relaying that information as soon as possible, she waited a few weeks and only answered my questions around the time registration started.

I then focused on VC waterfall/midrand where communication was clearer however I also encountered issues there. Varsity college has already issued an apology and explanation about why the registration process was such a mess however it was incredibly disappointing to finally receive my timetable and not see certain modules on it "because lectures resigned at the last minute". Why was this not communicated formally? Moreover what issues as VC are taking place that more than one lecturer would resign so close to when classes were due to commence?

It is also very unfortunate to find that while the institution promotes their bursaries and financial aid programmes, they can still turn students - like myself- away because of reason such as "not being able to afford the monthly payments without the bursary to begin with". From my understanding financial aid is meant to help students who cannot otherwise afford and when I raised this issue in person at the finance office I was told that this is a common occurance and that nothing can be done.

To anyone considering VC, yes they may be one of the strongest institutes of private higher education but the hassle and lack of communication is not worth it especially considering how high the fees are in comparison.