The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has clarified that funding is not guaranteed beyond the first year. To secure funding for subsequent years, students must meet specific requirements set by NSFAS.
NSFAS provides comprehensive bursaries and student loans to deserving students enrolled in approved courses at universities and TVET colleges. NSFAS funding covers tuition and registration fees, as well as several allowances for food, accommodation, and learning materials.
Funding is awarded at NSFAS's discretion and is dependent on the availability of funds. Students must also continue to meet all academic and financial eligibility criteria.
NSFAS Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for NSFAS funding:
- Applicants must have a household income below R350,000 per year. Students with disabilities may qualify with a household income of up to R600,000.
- Sassa grant beneficiaries automatically meet the financial requirements if they are registered and academically eligible. However, only recipients of Foster Care, Care Dependency, and Child Support grants are considered.
- Income is verified using third-party data, and applicants must provide accurate consent forms.
Academic Requirements
- Returning university students must pass at least 60% of their modules.
- TVET College students need a 70% pass rate or must meet subject-specific requirements.
- National Certificate Vocational (NC(V)) students must pass five subjects, while Report 191 students must pass three.
- Students cannot exceed the N+Rule, which allows one extra year of funding beyond the standard duration of their qualification. Disabled students are eligible for N+2.
NSFAS provides essential financial support, but students must continue to meet the necessary criteria to maintain their funding.
