The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government-funded entity that provides financial assistance to eligible students in all public higher learning institutions in South Africa to pursue their studies. One of those higher learning institutions is the University of South Africa (Unisa).
The university is one of the largest open distance learning institutions in South Africa, offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs to students from all over the country.
As a distance-learning university, Unisa provides students with the flexibility to study from anywhere, at any time and at their own pace. However, for many students, the cost of tuition and other related expenses can be a significant barrier to their education.
This is where NSFAS comes in, providing financial assistance to eligible students in the form of a full bursary. The funding is intended to cover tuition fees, study material, and other related expenses, making it easier for students to focus on their studies.
The bursary scheme funds students from Unisa, as well as all other public universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges across the country. To be eligible for NSFAS funding, students must meet certain criteria, such as the requirement listed below
- If you are a Sassa social grant recipient (excluding the Sassa SRD grant)
- Have a total combined household income that is NOT more than R350 000 per annum.
- If you are living with a disability, you must then have a total combined household income NOT more than R600 000 per annum.
- Prospective students who applied for admission to the 2023 academic year for a first undergraduate qualification
- If you are a returning student who took a gap year in the previous academic year, and as a result have an incomplete undergraduate qualification, and have not exceeded the N+ rule.
- If you are an NSFAS-approved returning and new student in the prior academic year who did not study during the 2021 academic year. Students funded by other NSFAS bursaries who wish to switch to the NSFAS DHET grant
It is also important to note that your NSFAS application will not be considered if you have previously earned an undergraduate degree or diploma from Unisa, are hoping to get funding for a short learning certificate or programme, or a postgraduate qualification, and are not a citizen of South Africa.
NSFAS is a valuable resource for students who are looking for financial assistance to pursue their studies at Unisa.
Whether you're an undergraduate or postgraduate student, if you meet the eligibility criteria, you can apply for NSFAS funding and take advantage of the many opportunities that this institution has to offer.
