Good news for students hoping to be funded by the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). A new application window will soon be opened for students to have another shot at securing funding.
The 2 week application window will only be open to students who qualify for NSFAS funding this year, but didn’t apply during the initial application window.
“The Nsfas board, after careful consideration of the plight of currently registered university students that were not able to apply for funding during the funding application window due to a number of reasons, resolved to grant a once-off application window period for those students to apply.
"The initiative is aimed at alleviating the financial burden of eligible and deserving students but also minimizing the burden of student debt." said the department in a statement.
Students submitting their own applications will have to submit them between 18 August 2021 and 3 September 2021. Universities have also been urged to send their lists of students that can be considered for this once-off opportunity.
NSFAS has encouraged all universities to inform students about the application window and to make sure they apply before the closing date.
Higher Education Minister, Blade Nzimande said the department made the decision to open a new application window, after considering the amount of NSFAS funds available.
Who Qualifies To Apply?
In order to qualify for the 2 week application window, students must be:
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Registered in the 2021 academic cycle
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Without any other form of bursary and financial support.