NSFAS has yet to finalise funding decisions for 12,800 university students. While universities have submitted the required registration data for these students, they had applied during a funding window meant exclusively for TVET college applicants, not for university students.
Why These Students Haven’t Been Funded
NSFAS typically opens its annual application period towards the end of the year for university students. In contrast, special application windows are made available throughout the year to accommodate the flexible academic calendars of TVET colleges.
The 12,800 university students in question mistakenly applied during one of these TVET college application windows, which NSFAS had clearly communicated were not valid for university funding. Despite this, their institutions still registered them and submitted their details to NSFAS.
Despite clear communication, some universities proceeded to register and submit these students' data to NSFAS,
As a result, NSFAS has withheld the disbursement of tuition funding and student allowances for these individuals since the beginning of the year. A final decision on their funding eligibility is still pending.
Funding Could Exceed R730 Million
If NSFAS opts to fund these students, the total cost could surpass R730 million. However, the bursary scheme emphasised that some universities followed the guidelines and did not submit students who applied during the incorrect window.
NSFAS provides bursaries and student loans to eligible students enrolled at public universities and TVET colleges. Funding covers tuition and registration fees, as well as allowances for food, accommodation, and learning materials.
The ongoing delay leaves thousands of students in limbo, highlighting the importance of adhering to correct application processes and timeframes.
