What is NSFAS and Why Does It Matter?
If you’re a South African student who dreams of getting a university or TVET college qualification but worries about the cost, NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme) might just be your golden ticket.
NSFAS is a government-funded financial aid program designed to help students from poor and working-class families pay for tertiary education. It covers tuition, accommodation, meals, transport, and learning materials — making higher education more accessible for thousands of students each year.
📌 According to the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), NSFAS plays a crucial role in closing the gap between education affordability and access in South Africa.
Who Qualifies for NSFAS Funding?
Not everyone automatically qualifies for NSFAS, so it’s important to check the requirements before applying.
Here are the basic NSFAS eligibility criteria:
- You must be a South African citizen.
- Household income must be R350,000 or less per year (or R600,000 for students living with disabilities).
- You must be enrolled or planning to enroll at a public university or TVET college in South Africa.
- You must have met the academic requirements set by your institution.
- You should not have previously completed a degree or diploma (unless you’re applying for postgraduate funding in approved fields).
What Does NSFAS Cover?
One of the reasons NSFAS is so popular is because it doesn’t just cover tuition — it funds almost every major cost of studying.
Here’s a breakdown:
For University Students:
- Full tuition fees (paid directly to the institution)
- Accommodation (up to a capped amount depending on location)
- Transport allowance (up to 40km from campus)
- Living allowance
- Book allowance
- Personal care allowance
For TVET College Students:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation (for students staying away from home)
- Transport allowance
- Personal care allowance
How to Apply for NSFAS
The NSFAS application process is completely online and free — so avoid anyone who asks you to pay for assistance.
Step-by-Step NSFAS Application Guide:
- Create a myNSFAS account on the official NSFAS website.
- Log in and click ‘Apply’.
- Fill in your personal and academic details.
- Upload the required supporting documents (see list below).
- Submit your application before the closing date.
Documents You’ll Need
When is the NSFAS Closing Date?
NSFAS applications usually open in November and close in January of the following year.
The exact date changes yearly, so always confirm the latest deadline on the official NSFAS page.
How Does NSFAS Decide Who Gets Funding?
NSFAS uses a means test to evaluate your financial need. This process considers your household income, the number of dependents, and your academic performance. Students with the highest financial need are given priority.
NSFAS Login – Tracking Your Application
After you apply, you can log in to your myNSFAS account to check your status.
Here’s what the NSFAS application status updates mean:
- Application Submitted – Your application has been received.
- Evaluation – NSFAS is verifying your details and documents.
- Funding Eligibility – They’re checking your household income.
- Awaiting Academic Results – Waiting for your institution to confirm your admission.
- Approved – Congrats! You’re funded.
- Rejected – Unfortunately, you didn’t meet the requirements (you can appeal).
NSFAS Allowances – How Much Will You Get?
The allowance amounts vary depending on whether you attend a university or TVET college and whether you live on or off campus.
Is NSFAS a Loan or a Bursary?
This is one of the most common questions students ask. NSFAS used to be a loan system, but now, for most undergraduate students, it’s a bursary — meaning you don’t have to repay it, as long as you pass your modules.
If you drop out or fail, you might need to repay some funds.
What Happens if You Fail?
If you fail a year, NSFAS might still fund you for a repeat, but there are limits.
The N+1 rule applies — you get funding for the number of years your course takes (N) plus one extra year. For example, if your degree takes 3 years, NSFAS can fund you for up to 4 years.
Appealing a Rejected NSFAS Application
If your application is rejected but you believe you meet the requirements, you can submit an appeal.
Here’s how:
- Log in to your myNSFAS account.
- Click on ‘Appeal’.
- Provide a written motivation and upload any additional documents.
NSFAS for Students with Disabilities
If you have a disability, NSFAS provides extra allowances, including:
- Assistive devices (e.g., wheelchairs, braille materials)
- Human support (caregivers, scribes)
- Higher income threshold (up to R600,000 per household)
Tips for a Successful NSFAS Application
- Apply early — don’t wait until the last week.
- Double-check your documents before uploading.
- Use a reliable email and phone number — NSFAS will use these to contact you.
- Keep copies of everything you submit.
Where to Get More Information
- Official NSFAS Website: https://www.nsfas.org.za
- Department of Higher Education and Training: https://www.dhet.gov.za
- Bursaries in South Africa: Visit BursariesMzansi for more guides on bursaries and scholarships.
Final Thoughts
NSFAS is more than just a funding scheme — it’s a lifeline for thousands of South African students. Whether you’re from a small rural town or a busy city, NSFAS can help turn your academic dreams into reality.
If you’re serious about furthering your education but don’t have the money, apply as soon as applications open and follow the guidelines closely. Your future self will thank you.
