The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) was founded to support economically challenged and low-wage-earning South African students in achieving their higher education goals. This bursary programme focuses on the government’s intention to gradually implement fully funded tuition and training for economically backward candidates. This initiative led to the creation of the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) Scheme. NSFAS offers financial assistance to qualifying students, allowing them to advance their education at public universities and TVET colleges without having to worry about paying tuition fees. Its mission is to encourage students from disadvantaged backgrounds by making higher education accessible and affordable.
In this article, we will discuss the benefits, application process, eligibility criteria, and requirements for enroling in the NSFAS Bursary Scheme.
NSFAS Bursary 2024: Cohorts
When applying to the NSFAS Bursary 2024, students will be split into 5 separate cohorts, which are:
- Cohort 1: First-Time Entering Student (FTEN) who is a SASSA beneficiary
- Cohort 2: Returning Student who is a SASSA beneficiary
- Cohort 3: First-Time Entering Student who is NOT a SASSA beneficiary
- Cohort 4: Returning Student, who is NOT a SASSA beneficiary
- Cohort 5: Student living with disability
What Is NSFAS Bursary Allowance Allocation?
Funding is available for disadvantaged students who are either currently pursuing or aspiring to pursue undergraduate qualifications at public universities or Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges in South Africa.
NSFAS funding will cover:
- Registration fees
- Tuition fees
- Study materials
- Food allowance
- Personal care expenses
- Accommodation or transport
University students will receive:
- Accommodation: The amount charged by the university or the equivalent for private accommodation.
- Transport: Up to R7,500 per year (for distances up to 40 km from the institution).
- Living allowance: Up to R15,000 per year.
- Book allowance: Up to R5,200 per year.
- Personal care allowance: Up to R2,900 per year (if living in a catered residence).
NSFAS Bursary Application: Eligibility
To qualify for funding, applicants must meet specific mandatory criteria. These criteria are essential as they ensure that applicants meet the necessary requirements for the funding opportunity. Failure to meet these criteria may result in the application’s disqualification.
- Be a South African citizen.
- Be studying or planning to study towards an undergraduate qualification in 2024.
- Be enroled or planning to enrol in a public university or TVET college in South Africa.
- Not have completed any previous qualifications.
- Fall into at least one of these categories:
- You are a SASSA grant recipient.
- Your total combined household income is R350,000 or less per year.
- You have a disability, and your total combined household income is R600,000 or less per year.
- You started studying before 2018, and your total combined household income is R122,000 or less per year.
TVET students will receive the following funding:
- Accommodation:
- Up to R24,000 per year in an urban area
- Up to R18,900 per year in a peri-urban area
- Up to R15,750 per year in a rural area
- Transport: Up to R7,350 per year
- Personal care allowance: Up to R2,900 per year
University of South Africa (UNISA) students will receive the following funding:
- Tuition
- Books (based on the number of registered modules)
- Personal care allowance
Students with disabilities will receive the following funding:
- Tuition
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Transport
- Assistive devices (wheelchairs, hearing aids, adapted laptops)
- Human support (carers, scribes, tutors, sign language interpreters)
NSFAS Bursary Requirements: Documentation
All applicants must submit the following supporting documents when applying. Make sure you have these documents ready before submitting your application, as no applications will be accepted without them:
- South African ID document (any of the following):
- Copy of green ID document
- Temporary ID from the DHA
- Copy of both sides of the Smart ID card
- Unabridged birth certificate
- Non-SASSA grant applicants: Parents, guardians, or spouse ID documents (copies only)
Own, parents, guardians, or spouse proof of income if a non-SASSA applicant (any of the following):
- Latest payslip if employed (not older than 3 months)
- UIF letter
- Employment letter
- Retrenchment letter if a non-SASSA applicant
- Students with disabilities: Complete and sign the Disability Annexure A Form (PDF) and submit proof of disability and a quotation for assistive devices.
- Students recognised as a Vulnerable Child by the Department of Social Development: Complete and sign the Vulnerable Child Declaration Form (PDF)
How To Fill The NSFAS Bursary Online Application?
Applications must be submitted online at the NSFAS 2024 Application portal. You can apply using any device with internet access, such as a cellphone, tablet, laptop, or computer.
- Follow these steps to submit your application for NSFAS funding:
- Visit my NSFAS portal.
- Select the “Create an account” tab and fill in your ID number, first and last name, email address, contact number, and chosen password.
- Validate your account and the information you provided.
- After creating your account, select the “Login” tab and log in with your ID number and password.
- Fill in all the required information and upload your supporting documents.
If you have already applied, qualified, and received funding, you do not have to reapply each year. You will automatically be funded for the duration of your studies, provided you pass your modules and meet the academic requirements. Know more about the online application process for bursaries.
When Is The NSFAS Bursary Closing Date?
The opening and closing dates for the NSFAS bursary will be announced on their official website. It is crucial to check the website to stay updated on these deadlines regularly. Keeping informed about the dates ensures that you submit your application on time and do not miss out on this opportunity.
Conclusion
NSFAS is crucial for helping economically disadvantaged South African students access higher education. It provides full funding for tuition, accommodation, transport, and study materials. NSFAS offers fair opportunities through different student groups and a straightforward application process. Once awarded, funding continues as long as students meet academic standards. This commitment promotes educational equity and prepares a skilled workforce for South Africa’s future. Interested applicants should check the NSFAS website regularly for application deadlines to be updated on these opportunities.
For quick quotes and guidance on bursary applications, reach out to Regenesys expert counsellors today. Contact them now to get started on your educational journey!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Everything You Need to Know About NSFAS Bursary 2024
Q1. How can I contact NSFAS for more information?
If you have any questions or need assistance, you can contact NSFAS through its official website, email or helpline.
Tel: 0860 067 327
Email: info@nsfas.org.za
Q2. What does NSFAS bursary cover?
The NSFAS funding is allocated based on your needs and eligibility. University students receive allowances for accommodation, transport, living expenses, and study materials, while TVET and UNISA students have specific allocations.
Q3. Can students with disabilities apply for NSFAS?
Yes, students with disabilities can apply for NSFAS and receive additional funding for assistive devices and human support.
Q4. How do I apply for NSFAS funding?
You can apply for NSFAS funding online through the NSFAS application portal. Create an account, fill in the required details, and upload the necessary documents.
Q5. What is the role of the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) in NSFAS?
The NSFAS funding is overseen by the DHET to ensure it complies with government policies in assisting financially challenged students.
