Are you struggling to fund your tertiary education? The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is here to support you.
As a government-funded bursary scheme, NSFAS provides financial assistance to students who cannot afford their studies.
What is NSFAS?
NSFAS is a bursary scheme funded by the Department of Higher Education and Training. It aims to support students from low-income households who cannot access bank funding, study loans, or other bursaries.
How to Apply
Applying for NSFAS is easy and convenient. Here’s what you need to do:
- Apply online: Visit the NSFAS website to submit your application.
- Check the application window: Applications are open for a limited time at the end of each year.
- Get help when needed: Call the toll-free number 08000 67327 or visit your nearest NYDA office.
Important Notes
- Repaying your NSFAS funding: Previously, If you received NSFAS funding, you must repay 60% of the loan once you start working, provided you pass all your subjects.
- Check your application status: Visit the myNSFAS portal to track your application status.
- Required documents: The system will generate a list of documents needed for upload based on your application type.
Contact the National Student Financial Aid Scheme directly for more information or assistance.
You can check if you are eligible for NSFAS funding using our NSFAS Eligibility Check tool below
NSFAS Eligibility Check
How Users Can Use Our NSFAS Eligibility Checker Tool
- Input Your Information:
- South African Citizen: Select “Yes” or “No” from the dropdown to confirm citizenship.
- First-Time Enrollment: Indicate whether you are enrolled at a public university or TVET college for the first time.
- Household Income: Enter your combined household income per year in Rands.
- Disability Status: Select whether you have a disability.
- Study Start Year: Specify whether you started studying before 2018.
- Check Eligibility:
- Click the “Check Eligibility” button to determine if you qualify for NSFAS funding.
- View Results:
- A message below the form indicates whether you meet the NSFAS criteria or if any conditions disqualify you.
Read more on NSFAS funding for 2025-2026 Academic year
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- NSFAS Allowances for Unisa Students: What to Expect in January 2025As the new year approaches, Unisa students who are recipients of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) bursaries are eager to know how their allowances will be structured. NSFAS Allowance… Read more: NSFAS Allowances for Unisa Students: What to Expect in January 2025
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- When Will NSFAS Start Funding for 2024: Key Financial MilestonesAs a student in South Africa, understanding the funding process of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme is crucial for your academic journey. Knowing when NSFAS will start funding for 2024… Read more: When Will NSFAS Start Funding for 2024: Key Financial Milestones
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- List of Courses Funded by NSFAS 2024: Find Your Study PathNSFAS is a government-funded initiative that provides financial assistance to eligible South African students who wish to further their education at public universities, universities of technology, and TVET colleges. The scheme… Read more: List of Courses Funded by NSFAS 2024: Find Your Study Path
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- What Does Awaiting Evaluation Mean in NSFAS: Clarifying Your StatusThe NSFAS evaluation process is a comprehensive assessment that determines whether your application meets the eligibility criteria for financial assistance. Once you submit your application, NSFAS reviews the information provided, including… Read more: What Does Awaiting Evaluation Mean in NSFAS: Clarifying Your Status
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- How to Check Balance on Coinvest NSFAS: Stay Updated on Your FundingThe Coinvest NSFAS account offers an efficient way for South African students to monitor their balance and ensure they stay on top of their finances. In this article, you’ll learn exactly… Read more: How to Check Balance on Coinvest NSFAS: Stay Updated on Your Funding
- NSFAS Payments 2024: Key Information for Financial PlanningNSFAS payments refer to the monthly disbursements made by NSFAS to cover various study-related expenses. When NSFAS approves your application, the funds are distributed directly to institutions to cover tuition fees… Read more: NSFAS Payments 2024: Key Information for Financial Planning
- When Will NSFAS Open for 2024: Stay Ahead of the GameWith each academic year, new applicants and returning students must pay close attention to application opening dates, requirements, and deadlines to ensure they receive the financial assistance needed for their tertiary… Read more: When Will NSFAS Open for 2024: Stay Ahead of the Game
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- NSFAS Closing Date: Last Chance for ApplicationsEach year, NSFAS opens applications to fund eligible students for the upcoming academic year. However, these applications come with a deadline that is essential to meet if you want a shot… Read more: NSFAS Closing Date: Last Chance for Applications
- NSFAS Allowance 2024 Payment Dates: Stay Updated on Your Financial AidIf you’re a student in South Africa receiving funding from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme, staying updated on your allowance payment dates is very important. Also knowing when your allowances… Read more: NSFAS Allowance 2024 Payment Dates: Stay Updated on Your Financial Aid
- NSFAS WhatsApp Number: Quick Support at Your FingertipsNSFAS provides financial support to many students in South Africa, making tertiary education accessible to those who may not afford it otherwise. As a vital support service, NSFAS also offers multiple… Read more: NSFAS WhatsApp Number: Quick Support at Your Fingertips
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