NSFAS: National Student Financial Aid Scheme

NSFAS: The National Student Financial Aid Scheme is a South African government student financial aid scheme that was formally established by statute in 1999. The National Student Financial Aid Scheme provides financial support to South African students who are studying at public higher learning institutions, which are universities or Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET).

NSFAS has grown significantly since the 1990s, when it supported only a few thousand students. Today, over a million students are receiving support from NSFAS. The are millions of students  under given circumstances, it was impossible for them to further their studies; however, the scheme has made it possible for them to further their studies by supporting them.

A bursary is financial assistance provided to students who lack the necessary resources to meet the cost of higher education or vocational training. Unlike scholarships, they are generally awarded based on financial need rather than academic merit. The scheme is being offered by government bodies. Eligibility criteria vary depending on the given circumstance but typically require the submission of financial information to determine the student’s level of need. The NSFAS bursary is fully subsidized for free higher education and training.

The NSFAS Bursary covers costs including tuition fees, food, accommodation, books, and transport allowances for students staying at home.

Eligibility criteria

The scheme does not fund students at private colleges and institutions. It also does not fund students who have completed a previous qualification. The applicant to be funded must demonstrate a need for financial support. The student must be from low-income households where the combined household income falls below the threshold set by the scheme.

What are the required documents when applying?
The following documents must be certified:

• Grade 12 report
• ID copy 
• Guardian ID
• Guardian proof of income or an affidavit if your guardian is not working.

How to apply?
Apply directly online through the NSFAS website portal (www.nsfas.org.za)