NSFAS has published its Eligibility Criteria and Conditions for Financial Aid, confirming the N+ rule's application to TVET college students.
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
What is the N+ Rule?
The N+ rule calculates the maximum funding period. "N" represents the standard qualification duration, while "+" allows additional time for unforeseen circumstances. Most students fall under the N+1 rule (standard duration plus one year). Students with disabilities qualify for N+2 (standard duration plus two years). Students must complete their studies within the N+ rule and adhere to NSFAS's academic progression rules.
NSFAS stated, "There is also a fairness element to this - if the number of years funded are counted, a student who is funded from their first year will have to complete their qualification within the required time frames for that qualification."
How Does it Apply to TVET Colleges?
- Registration History: The N+ rule considers a student's entire registration history at any public South African TVET college, not just NSFAS-funded periods. The TVET College N+ Rule is based on NSFAS-funded academic terms at TVET colleges.
- Standard Duration: "N" is the minimum time required for the specific qualification, available from the offering TVET college.
- Extensions: The "+" period allows extensions for valid reasons, including:
- Academic challenges (e.g., failing courses, repeating modules).
- Personal circumstances (e.g., medical conditions, family emergencies).
NSFAS added: "The additional NSFAS funded academic term may be for repeating at any level from the entry academic term to exit the academic term."
The scheme clarified that the N+ rule does not apply to occupational programmes, "as these programmes are aligned to employment contracts which do not make provision for the N+1 period of study."
If a student changes qualifications and the remaining "N" is insufficient, they will lose NSFAS funding. For students changing institutions, NSFAS will verify the N+ rule with the student and institutions.
Students facing challenges should contact their TVET college and NSFAS to discuss potential extensions.
Appeals
NSFAS will consider appeals against funding discontinuation under the N+ rule in the following circumstances:
- Severe ill health (disruption of two or more months).
- Family bereavement (immediate family member).
- Victim of violence.
- Pregnancy and childbirth.
- Students with disabilities (medical report confirming impediment and institutional belief in future success within an extra term).
For academic progression issues, students must first appeal to their institution.
