NSFAS is a government initiative in South Africa that provides financial assistance to eligible students who cannot afford to pay for their tertiary education.
It covers a wide range of expenses, including tuition fees, accommodation, food, and books.
However, NSFAS funding is generally aimed at first-time university students or those pursuing their first qualifications.
Understanding whether you can access NSFAS funding for a second degree depends on several factors.
Does NSFAS Fund a Second Degree?
NSFAS typically funds undergraduate students who are pursuing their first degree.
However, the funding guidelines do allow for a second degree under specific circumstances.
Generally, NSFAS funding for a second degree is available only if the student is pursuing an undergraduate qualification at a public university or TVET college, and there are certain conditions attached.
When is NSFAS Available for a Second Degree?
Here are the main scenarios where NSFAS may fund a second degree:
- If You’re Enrolling for a New Undergraduate Qualification: If your first degree does not lead directly to employment or professional qualifications, you might be eligible for a second degree if you meet the general NSFAS requirements.
- If the Second Degree is in a Priority Field: NSFAS tends to prioritize certain fields of study that are in high demand, such as science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), healthcare, and teaching. If you are pursuing a second degree in one of these fields, there is a higher chance of securing funding.
- If You Meet All NSFAS Criteria: You must meet the general eligibility requirements, such as being a South African citizen and coming from a household with a combined annual income below the set threshold.
What are the Eligibility Criteria for a Second Degree?
To be eligible for NSFAS funding for a second degree, you must meet the following requirements:
- South African Citizen: You must be a South African citizen to qualify for NSFAS funding.
- Household Income: Your household income must fall below the annual threshold set by NSFAS. This threshold is updated annually, so you should verify the current amount for the relevant year.
- Enrollment at a Public Institution: You must be enrolled at a public university or TVET college that is registered with NSFAS. Private institutions are not covered by NSFAS funding.
- Academic Progress: You must have a good academic record and meet the minimum academic progress standards set by your institution.
- First Undergraduate Qualification: The second qualification must be a full-time undergraduate degree or diploma. If you are pursuing postgraduate studies, NSFAS typically does not cover those costs.
How to Apply for NSFAS Funding for a Second Degree?
The application process for NSFAS funding remains the same whether you are applying for your first or second degree.
Here’s what you need to do:
- Complete the Application: Visit the official NSFAS website and fill out the online application form.
- Submit Required Documents: You will need to provide supporting documents, including your ID, proof of income, and academic records.
- Wait for Approval: Once you submit your application, NSFAS will assess your eligibility based on the provided documents.
- Check Your Status: You can track the progress of your application via the NSFAS website. Once your application is approved, you will receive notification of your funding status.
Are There Any Limitations for Second Degree Funding?
While NSFAS can fund a second degree in certain cases, there are some limitations and restrictions:
- No Postgraduate Funding: NSFAS does not cover postgraduate qualifications, such as Honours, Master’s, or Doctorate degrees.
- Limited Number of Years for Funding: NSFAS has a cap on the number of years a student can receive funding. For most students, funding is available for a maximum of four years for an undergraduate qualification.
- Field of Study Matters: If the second degree you are pursuing does not align with priority fields, it might be more challenging to secure funding.