Privacy Policy
This Privacy Policy explains how ApplyHub ("we", "us", "our") collects, uses, stores, and protects your information when you use our services in South Africa. We comply with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA).
1. Information We Collect
- Identity data: full name, ID number, date of birth
- Contact data: email address, mobile/WhatsApp number
- Academic data: school results, certificates, supporting documents
- Application preferences: programmes, institutions, intake terms
- Payment data processed by secure third-party gateways (we do not store card details)
- Technical data: device/browser info, IP address, basic analytics
2. How We Use Your Information
- Prepare and submit applications to universities/colleges on your behalf
- Communicate status updates and support via email/phone/WhatsApp
- Verify identity and eligibility where required by institutions
- Process payments and issue invoices/receipts
- Improve our services and prevent fraud/abuse
3. Legal Basis (POPIA)
We process personal information based on your consent, performance of our service agreement, and our legitimate interest in operating and improving ApplyHub.
4. Sharing Your Information
- With universities, colleges, and authorised education bodies solely to process your applications
- With payment processors to complete transactions
- With service providers who help us operate the platform (under confidentiality obligations)
- When required by law, a court order, or to enforce our terms
5. Data Security
- HTTPS encryption across our website
- Restricted staff access to personal information
- Secure storage with routine backups
- No long-term storage of card details (handled by payment gateways)
6. Data Retention & Deletion
We retain application data for 6 months after your last interaction, then permanently delete it, unless a longer period is required by law. You may request earlier deletion at any time.
7. Your Rights
- Access the personal information we hold about you
- Request correction, update, or deletion
- Withdraw consent (this may affect our ability to provide services)
- Lodge a complaint with the Information Regulator (South Africa)
8. International Transfers
We primarily process data in South Africa. If we use service providers outside SA, we ensure appropriate safeguards consistent with POPIA.
9. Updates to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy. The latest version will always be available on this page with an updated effective date.