The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) confirmed that discrepancies in qualification codes for two NC(V) programmes caused delays in the disbursement of bursary funds. These technical errors affected eligible students who were otherwise qualified to receive financial aid.
After an investigation, NSFAS traced the problem and implemented a fix. According to Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Nobuhle Nkabane, 80% of the affected students’ results were released to exam centres on 2 April 2025.
The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) also gathered supporting evidence for students in NC(V) Levels 2 to 4. This documentation is set to be submitted to Umalusi by 5 May 2025. If verified and approved, the remaining results will be released on 9 and 12 May.
NSFAS Funding to Resume
With the qualification code mismatch corrected, NSFAS is now able to release funding to the affected students.
“We expect the affected students to receive their NSFAS funding without further delay,” said Minister Nkabane.
I appreciate the patience and understanding of all affected students and stakeholders during this process. We remain committed to ensuring that all eligible students receive their funding and results promptly.
What Students Should Do
Students who were impacted by the delay are encouraged to:
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Check with their exam centres to confirm whether their results have been released.
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Monitor their NSFAS portal or institutional account for funding updates.
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Contact their TVET college or NSFAS if there is no progress by mid-May.
The DHET says it remains committed to resolving administrative issues that hinder student funding and academic progress. This resolution is seen as a critical step in restoring confidence in the NSFAS system and ensuring no eligible student is left behind.
NSFAS provides comprehensive bursaries and student loans to qualifying students enrolled at approved TVET colleges and universities. This includes tuition, registration, and allowances for food, accommodation, and learning materials.
