National Student Financial Aid Scheme

National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS)

Government See NSFAS for current application dates

South African public student financial aid scheme for eligible students studying or intending to study at public universities and TVET colleges.

Funding details

Fields covered: Approved public university and TVET college qualifications, subject to NSFAS funding rules, eligibility criteria and supported qualification categories.
Coverage value: Financial aid for eligible students, with funding package details determined by NSFAS rules and the applicable institution, qualification and allowance categories.
Renewal: Funding and continued support are subject to NSFAS rules, academic progression, registration status and annual eligibility requirements.
How to apply: Create or log in to a myNSFAS account and follow the current NSFAS application process.

South African citizen
Plans to study or is already studying at a public university or TVET college
SASSA recipients automatically qualify on financial eligibility
Combined household income is not more than R350 000 per year
Applicants with disabilities may qualify with combined household income not more than R600 000 per year
Must have an email address and cellphone number
Must meet the current NSFAS eligibility criteria and conditions for the relevant academic year or intake

No structured academic requirements have been captured for this bursary yet.

South African ID details validated through the application process
NSFAS consent form, if requested
Disability Annexure Form and medical report, if applicable
Orphan or vulnerable child declaration form, if applicable
Declaration form or proof of guardian or parental details, if requested
Other documents requested through the myNSFAS account, such as retrenchment letter, death certificate, divorce decree, proof of legal guardianship or marriage certificate where applicable