The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) bursary is the government’s pledge to provide free education to underprivileged students. The bursary is geared towards funding courses at either one of the 26 public universities or 50 TVET colleges.
Since the University of the Free State (UFS) is a public university, students who attend the university will then qualify for funding from NSFAS, if they meet the other criteria.
NSFAS bursary requirements are as follows:
- Combined household income of no more than R350 000 per annum.
- Persons with disabilities who have a combined household income of R600 000 or less per year.
- Sassa beneficiaries are eligible for funding.
- Need to be a South African citizen or permanent resident.
The bursary covers registration fees, tuition, textbooks, accommodation, transport, and living expenses in the form of allowances.
Students are reminded that the bursary only covers undergraduate courses and students are not required to repay the bursary.
NSFAS does not have an age limit. Anyone may apply as long as they meet the bursary’s requirements.
Students may apply for the bursary online or via a NSFAS application centre.