The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) offers financial assistance to eligible South African students pursuing tertiary education at public universities and TVET colleges. This guide provides an overview of the NSFAS application process, eligibility criteria, required documents, and application timelines to assist students in preparing for future applications.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for NSFAS funding, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Citizenship: Must be a South African citizen.
• Financial Means Test: The combined gross household income should not exceed R350,000 per annum.
• Academic Requirements: Must have been accepted or intend to apply to a public university or TVET college for an undergraduate qualification.

For detailed eligibility criteria, refer to the NSFAS Bursary Guidelines 2025.

Required Documents

When preparing to apply, ensure you have the following documents:

• Certified Copy of South African ID: Your own and those of your parents or guardians.
• Proof of Income: Recent payslips or employment letters for parents or guardians, or a SASSA letter if applicable.
• Consent Form: Completed and signed NSFAS Consent Form, allowing NSFAS to verify income information.
• Academic Records: Latest academic transcripts or results.
• Proof of Acceptance: Provisional acceptance letter from a public university or TVET college.

Additional documents may be required based on individual circumstances. For a comprehensive list, visit the NSFAS Supporting Documents page.

Application Process

1. Create a myNSFAS Account:
   • Visit the myNSFAS portal.
   • Register with your personal details and create a username and password.
2. Complete the Online Application:
   • Log in to your myNSFAS account.
   • Fill in the required information accurately.
   • Upload all necessary supporting documents.
3. Submit the Application:
   • Review all information for accuracy.
   • Submit your application before the closing date.

Application Timelines

NSFAS applications typically open in September and close in November for the following academic year. For instance, applications for the 2025 academic year opened on September 20, 2024, and closed on January 31, 2025. It's crucial to apply within this window to be considered for funding. Keep an eye on the NSFAS website for announcements regarding application dates.

Tracking Your Application

After submission, you can track your application status:

• Log in to your myNSFAS account.
• Navigate to the "Track Funding Progress" section.
• Review updates on your application's status.

Understanding each status update is essential. For a detailed explanation of application statuses, refer to the NSFAS Application Status Process.

Appeals Process

If your application is unsuccessful, you have the option to appeal:

1. Log in to your myNSFAS account.
2. Check the reason for rejection.
3. Submit a formal appeal with supporting documentation within 30 days of receiving your application results.

Detailed information on the appeals process is available on the NSFAS Appeals page.

Important Notices

• Zero-Tolerance Policy: NSFAS has a strict policy against dishonesty, bribery, fraud, and corruption. Report any unethical behaviour to speakup@nsfas.org.za.
• No Fees for Accommodation: NSFAS beneficiaries are not required to pay any fees for student accommodation. Report any providers charging such fees to the fraud prevention hotline.

For more information and updates, visit the NSFAS official website.

This guide aims to equip you with the necessary information to prepare for your NSFAS application. Ensure you meet all eligibility criteria, gather the required documents, and submit your application within the specified timelines. For further assistance, contact NSFAS directly through their official communication channels.

Apply online below.