Apple ID – A Comprehensive guide [OASC]

by

Creating a comprehensive guide to managing, recovering, and utilizing an Apple ID is crucial given its central role in accessing Apple services and devices. Your Apple ID is a personal account that gives you access to Apple services like the App Store, iCloud, iMessage, FaceTime, and more. It’s essential for a seamless experience across all your Apple devices. Below, we answer some of the most common questions regarding Apple ID issues and management.

How do I unlock my Apple ID and password?

If your Apple ID is locked or disabled for security reasons, you usually get a message that your account is locked when you try to sign in. To unlock it, go to iforgot.apple.com, enter your Apple ID, and follow the instructions. You may need to answer security questions, verify your email address, or receive a verification code on a trusted device.

How do I unlock my Apple ID and password?

How do I find my old Apple ID and password?

How do I find my Apple ID password without resetting it?

How do I recover my iCloud account?

Can I recover my Apple ID with phone number?

How to recover Apple ID without phone number or trusted device?

How do I find my old Apple ID and password?

If you’ve forgotten your Apple ID (the email address you use), you can find it by going to the Apple ID account page (appleid.apple.com) and clicking on “Forgot Apple ID or password?” For the password, you’ll need to reset it if you’ve forgotten it by following the on-screen instructions after entering your Apple ID.

How do I find my Apple ID password without resetting it?

If you’re logged into an Apple device, you might be able to see your password in the device’s password settings. On an iPhone or iPad, go to Settings > Passwords & Accounts (or Accounts & Passwords) > Website & App Passwords. You may be required to use Touch ID, Face ID, or your device passcode to access this information.

How do I recover my iCloud account?

Recovering your iCloud account involves the same steps as recovering your Apple ID since your iCloud uses your Apple ID for access. Visit iforgot.apple.com and follow the prompts to reset your password or unlock your account.

Can I recover my Apple ID with a phone number?

Yes, if your phone number is registered as a trusted device or recovery key. You can use it to recover your Apple ID by receiving a verification code during the recovery process at iforgot.apple.com.

How to recover Apple ID without a phone number or trusted device?

If you don’t have access to a phone number or a trusted device, you can still recover your Apple ID by answering security questions or by using email verification through the iforgot.apple.com website.

How can I recover my Apple ID if my phone is broken?

If your phone is broken but your number is still active (e.g., you’ve transferred it to a new SIM), you can use your phone number on a different device to receive verification codes. Otherwise, rely on other recovery options like email verification or security questions.

Can you recover a deactivated Apple ID?

Yes, in most cases, you can recover a deactivated Apple ID by contacting Apple Support directly. They may require additional information to verify your identity before reactivating your account.

How do I activate my Apple ID that is not active?

If your Apple ID is not active, it may have been disabled for security reasons. Visit iforgot.apple.com and follow the instructions to verify your identity and reactivate your account.

Why can’t I open my Apple ID?

Several reasons could prevent you from opening your Apple ID, such as incorrect password attempts leading to a locked account, or network/connection issues. Verify your network settings, ensure you’re entering the correct credentials, and try resetting your password if necessary.

How do I access my Apple ID?

Access your Apple ID by signing in on the Apple ID account page (appleid.apple.com) or through the settings of your Apple device. You’ll need your Apple ID (usually your email address) and password.

What happens if you lose your iPhone with two-factor authentication?

If you lose your iPhone and have two-factor authentication enabled, you can still access your account by using a trusted phone number or trusted device. If you have no access to any trusted device, you may need to contact Apple Support for assistance.

How do I get a 6-digit verification code?

A 6-digit verification code is sent automatically to your trusted devices when you attempt to sign in to a new device or browser with your Apple ID. You can also get a verification code from Settings on your iPhone (go to Settings > [your name] > Password & Security > Get Verification Code) or on other Apple devices.

Additional Top 20 Questions About Apple IDs

  1. How do I change the email address associated with my Apple ID?
  • Go to appleid.apple.com, sign in, click “Edit” in the Account section, and follow the prompts to change your Apple ID email.
  1. Can I merge two Apple IDs?
  • Currently, Apple does not allow users to merge two Apple IDs into one.
  1. What should I do if I receive an alert that my Apple ID is being used on a new device?
  • If you recognize the device

, you can ignore the alert. If not, change your Apple ID password immediately.

  1. How do I sign out of all devices using my Apple ID?
  • Go to appleid.apple.com, sign in, and under the Devices section, you’ll see all devices signed in with your Apple ID. You can remove devices individually.
  1. How do I delete my Apple ID?
  • Visit privacy.apple.com, sign in with your Apple ID, and follow the instructions to delete your account. Be aware that this action is irreversible.
  1. How can I see where my Apple ID is being used?
  • Sign into appleid.apple.com and check the Devices section to see all devices currently using your Apple ID.
  1. What do I do if my Apple ID has been compromised?
  • Change your password immediately and review your account information for any unauthorized changes.
  1. Can I use an Apple ID on multiple devices?
  • Yes, you can use your Apple ID on multiple devices.
  1. How do I set up two-factor authentication for my Apple ID?
  • Go to Settings > [your name] > Password & Security on your iOS device and turn on Two-Factor Authentication.
  1. What is the difference between Apple ID and iCloud?
    • Your Apple ID is used to log into Apple services, while iCloud is a service that uses the Apple ID to sync and store data across your devices.
  2. Can I use my Apple ID on Android devices?
    • You can use certain Apple services like Apple Music on Android with your Apple ID.
  3. How do I cancel subscriptions linked to my Apple ID?
    • Go to Settings > [your name] > Subscriptions on your iOS device to manage or cancel your subscriptions.
  4. What to do if I forget the answers to my security questions?
    • You can reset your security questions by going to iforgot.apple.com.
  5. How do I create a new Apple ID?
    • You can create a new Apple ID on the Apple ID website or directly from your device’s settings.
  6. How do I stop family sharing on my Apple ID?
    • Go to Settings > [your name] > Family Sharing and follow the prompts to stop family sharing.
  7. Can I change my country or region on my Apple ID?
    • Yes, go to Settings > [your name] > iTunes & App Store, tap your Apple ID, then View Apple ID, and select Country/Region to change it.
  8. How do I add a payment method to my Apple ID?
    • Go to Settings > [your name] > Payment & Shipping and add a payment method.
  9. How can I download all the data Apple has on me?
    • Visit privacy.apple.com, sign in with your Apple ID, and follow the prompts to download your data.
  10. Why am I being charged for something I didn’t buy with my Apple ID?
    • Review your purchase history in the Settings or iTunes & App Store settings and report any unauthorized transactions to Apple Support.
  11. How do I share apps, music, and books with my family using Apple ID?
    • Set up Family Sharing in your device settings to share purchases and subscriptions with up to six family members.

These questions cover a wide range of common issues and inquiries regarding Apple IDs. For more specific issues or personalized assistance, contacting Apple Support directly is often the best course of action.

Related Resources

🛡️ PSIRA Registration Guide Step-by-step PSIRA registration and renewal process
💰 SARS Tax Guide Tax filing, eFiling, and SARS-related assistance
🔧 Learnership Opportunities Find and apply for learnerships and skills development

Sponsored Content

Complete Guide to NSFAS Online Loan Application for South African Students (2026)

If you are a South African student looking to pursue higher education but are facing financial difficulties, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is one of the most accessible funding options available. NSFAS provides financial aid in the form of bursaries and loans to qualifying students at public universities and TVET colleges in South Africa.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the NSFAS loan application process, from eligibility requirements to application steps and frequently asked questions.

📌 What is NSFAS?

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government-funded financial aid scheme aimed at helping students from low- and middle-income households to access tertiary education without the burden of upfront fees.

NSFAS offers both bursaries and income-contingent loans:

  • Bursaries: For eligible students who meet academic and household income criteria (especially for TVET and university students).
  • Loans: For students who do not meet all bursary criteria or who are pursuing postgraduate qualifications not funded under bursary schemes.

✅ Who Qualifies for an NSFAS Loan?

To qualify for an NSFAS loan (especially for postgraduate students or programs not funded under the bursary system), you must:

  • Be a South African citizen.
  • Be financially needy, with a household income of less than R350,000 per year.
  • Have a valid South African ID.
  • Be enrolled or accepted to study at a public university or TVET college.
  • Not be funded through another bursary program that covers all expenses.
  • Maintain satisfactory academic progress (returning students).

📚 Courses Funded by NSFAS

NSFAS primarily funds undergraduate qualifications, but certain postgraduate programs (e.g., PGCE, postgraduate diplomas in education, and professional courses like LLB) may be considered under the NSFAS loan scheme, not bursaries.

If you’re studying:

  • Undergraduate degree or diploma: You are likely eligible for a full NSFAS bursary.
  • Postgraduate study: You may qualify for a loan, depending on the course and funding availability.

📄 Required Documents for NSFAS Application

When applying, make sure you have the following documents scanned and ready:

  1. Certified copy of your South African ID or Smart Card.
  2. Parent(s) or guardian(s) ID documents.
  3. Proof of income (latest payslips, UIF, or affidavit if unemployed).
  4. Consent Form signed by your parent(s)/guardian(s) to allow NSFAS to verify income.
  5. Proof of registration or acceptance at a public institution.
  6. Academic transcripts (for continuing or postgraduate students).

🖥️ How to Apply for an NSFAS Loan Online

Step-by-Step NSFAS Online Application Process (2026)

  1. Visit the NSFAS Website

    Go to: https://www.nsfas.org.za

  2. Create an Account

    • Click on “MyNSFAS” and register your profile.
    • You’ll need a valid email address and South African cellphone number.
    • Choose a strong password and verify your account via email or SMS.

  3. Login and Start the Application

    • After registration, log in to your MyNSFAS account.
    • Click on “Apply” to begin a new application.

  4. Fill in Your Personal Details

    • Input your ID number, name, surname, and other details exactly as they appear on your ID.
    • Provide household income information and living arrangements.

  5. Upload Required Documents

    • Upload all supporting documents in PDF or JPEG format.
    • Each document must be clear and under the size limit specified.

  6. Submit Your Application

    • Review your application for accuracy.
    • Click “Submit” and wait for a confirmation message.

  7. Track Your Application

    • Log in regularly to check your application status.
    • You will be notified via SMS and email at each stage of the process.

🗓️ Important NSFAS Dates (2026)

  • Application Opening Date: September 1,
  • Application Deadline: January 31, 2026
  • Appeals Period: February 2026 (if rejected)
  • Disbursement: After registration and approval

Note: Dates are subject to change; always confirm on the official NSFAS website.

💸 What Does the NSFAS Loan Cover?

NSFAS funding typically includes:

  • Tuition fees
  • Registration fees
  • Accommodation (if living away from home)
  • Meals and transport
  • Learning materials (e.g., textbooks)

For loans, repayment is only required once you start working and earn above a threshold (around R30,000 annually, but subject to change).

🔄 NSFAS Loan Repayment

Repayments are:

  • Income-contingent – you only repay when you can afford to.
  • Administered by DHET (Department of Higher Education and Training).
  • Interest-bearing, but interest rates are low and favorable.

You can also apply for a partial loan conversion to a bursary if you perform well academically.

🔁 How to Appeal a Rejected NSFAS Application

If your application is rejected, you may submit an appeal via your MyNSFAS portal:

  1. Log into your MyNSFAS account.
  2. Click on “Track Funding Progress”.
  3. If rejected, click on “Submit Appeal”.
  4. Upload any missing or corrected documents.
  5. Provide a clear explanation or motivation.

📱 NSFAS Contact Information

📝 Final Tips Before Applying

  • Apply early to avoid system overload near the deadline.
  • Use your own email and cellphone number (do not use someone else’s).
  • Double-check that all your documents are certified and legible.
  • Keep a copy of your submission confirmation for reference.

By following this guide, you can confidently apply for NSFAS funding and move one step closer to achieving your academic and career dreams—without the burden of immediate financial pressure.

If you need a printable checklist or PDF version of this guide, let me know and I’ll create one for you.

Online Courses and Learning tips : Top 10 Free Online Learning Platforms

  1. Free Online Education Degrees : Coursera:

    Coursera partners with universities and organizations worldwide to offer a wide range of courses. While many courses are free, a fee is often required for certification.

  2. Free Online Education Degrees: edX:

    Founded by MIT and Harvard, edX offers high-quality courses from top universities and institutions around the world. Certificates are available for a fee.

  3. Free Online Education Degrees : Khan Academy:

    Khan Academy provides free educational content in various subjects, especially mathematics and science, using instructional videos and practice exercises.

  4. Free Online Education Degrees : Udacity:

    Udacity focuses on tech-related courses and nanodegree programs, offering free content as well as more in-depth paid programs.

  5. Free Online Education Degrees : MIT OpenCourseWare (OCW):

    MIT OCW provides a vast array of MIT's course content for free, covering a wide range of disciplines.

  6. Free Online Education Degrees : Harvard Extension School:

    Harvard Extension School offers a selection of free online courses. While some courses are free, others may require payment for a certificate.

  7. Free Online Education Degrees: Stanford Online:

    Stanford Online offers a variety of free courses in different disciplines, including computer science, engineering, and business.

  8. Best Free Online Courses : Carnegie Mellon Open Learning Initiative (OLI):

    OLI offers free online courses and resources designed to improve learning outcomes through research-based methodologies.

  9. Best Free Online Courses : FutureLearn:

    FutureLearn partners with universities and institutions to offer a diverse range of free online courses. Certificates are available for a fee.

  10. Best Free Online Courses: Alison:

    Alison offers a wide range of free online courses, including diploma and certificate programs, covering various subjects.

  11. Best Free Online Courses: Open Yale Courses:

    Yale University provides free access to a selection of introductory courses through Open Yale Courses.

  12. Best Free Online Courses : UC Berkeley Online:

    UC Berkeley offers free online courses on a variety of subjects, ranging from computer science to humanities.

  13. Best Free Online Courses : Google Digital Garage:

    Google Digital Garage provides free courses on digital skills, including online marketing, data analysis, and more.

  14. Best Free Online Courses : Codecademy:

    Codecademy offers free coding courses, interactive exercises, and coding projects to help individuals learn programming languages.

  15. Best Free Online Courses : LinkedIn Learning (formerly Lynda.com):

    LinkedIn Learning provides a variety of video courses on professional development, technology, and creative skills. It offers a free trial period.

Related Posts: