Who Can Apply for NSFAS? Eligibility Criteria for South African Students

Who Can Apply for NSFAS?

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) provides financial aid to eligible students in South Africa who need assistance to pay for their studies at public universities and TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) colleges. Here’s a breakdown of who qualifies to apply for NSFAS funding:

Eligibility Criteria for NSFAS Funding

1. South African Citizens
   • Only South African citizens are eligible for NSFAS funding. International students, including those with permanent residency status, are not eligible.
2. Financial Need
   • NSFAS is intended for students from low-income households. To qualify:
     • Your combined household income (both parents or guardians, or your own if you’re independent) should be R350,000 or less per annum.
     • For students with a disability, the combined household income should not exceed R600,000 per annum.
3. Enrolling at a Public Institution
   • You must be applying to or currently studying at a public university or a TVET college in South Africa. NSFAS does not fund students at private institutions.
4. Academic Requirements
   • You need to meet the minimum academic requirements to apply:
     • First-time university or TVET students: You must have achieved the minimum pass requirements for the course or program you’re applying for.
     • Continuing students: You must meet the academic progression requirements set by your institution to continue receiving NSFAS funding (i.e., passing a certain percentage of your courses).
5. SASSA Beneficiaries
   • Students who receive funding from the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) automatically qualify for NSFAS, regardless of their household income. This includes beneficiaries of child support, disability, and other SASSA grants.
6. Postgraduate Funding (Limited)
   • NSFAS primarily funds undergraduate qualifications but provides funding for some postgraduate programs that are considered essential for the country’s development. These include fields like education (teaching), nursing, and other qualifications that support critical professions.

Who Should Not Apply for NSFAS?

• Students with household income above R350,000: If your combined household income exceeds R350,000 per year, you do not qualify for NSFAS, except in the case of students with disabilities (up to R600,000).
• International students: NSFAS is available to South African citizens only.
• Students studying at private institutions: NSFAS only funds students attending public universities or TVET colleges.

What Does NSFAS Cover?

NSFAS covers a wide range of study-related costs, including:

• Tuition fees: Full coverage of university or TVET college tuition.
• Accommodation: For students staying at residences or approved off-campus accommodation.
• Meal allowances: For students living away from home.
• Books and learning materials: Annual allowance for purchasing study materials.
• Transport costs: For students who live far from their institution (where applicable).

Conclusion

If you are a South African citizen from a low-income household, and you’re planning to study at a public university or TVET college, NSFAS may provide the financial support you need to complete your studies. Be sure to check your eligibility and apply during the official NSFAS application period, which usually opens in September each year.

For more information or to apply, visit the NSFAS website: https://www.nsfas.org.za.