NSFAS plays a crucial role in democratizing access to education, particularly for those who might otherwise be unable to afford university or college fees.
This financial aid covers a range of expenses, including tuition, accommodation, and textbooks, making it a comprehensive support system for students.
The program, governed by specific criteria and regulations, ensures equitable distribution of resources based on need and academic merit.
Understanding these requirements is essential for prospective and current students to navigate the application process successfully and maintain their eligibility for funding.
How Much You Must Earn to Qualify for NSFAS
To qualify for the National Student Financial Aid Scheme, your gross household income must be below R350,000 annually (R29,167 monthly). If you have a disability, this threshold increases to R600,000 per year (R50,000 monthly).
NSFAS General Application Conditions
1. Registration for NSFAS-funded Qualification
Students aspiring to receive NSFAS funding must enrol in an approved qualification at a recognized institution.
This enrollment must align with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) approved plans of the institution.
Before a bursary award is confirmed, students must satisfy both financial and academic criteria.
This dual requirement ensures that the bursary is allocated to those who not only need financial support but are also committed to their academic pursuits.
2. Assessment of Financial Need
Financial need is a key criterion for NSFAS eligibility. This assessment occurs during the initial application phase.
Importantly, once a student is deemed eligible, there is no need for annual reapplications.
However, NSFAS retains the authority to reassess a student’s financial situation at the start of each academic term.
This continuous assessment ensures that the funds are allocated to students who currently require financial support, reflecting any changes in their financial circumstances.
3. Eligibility Reassessment
NSFAS has the authority to reassess a student’s eligibility at the beginning of each academic term.
This process ensures that funding is appropriately allocated to students who meet the criteria continuously.
If a student’s circumstances change and they no longer fit the eligibility criteria, NSFAS may withdraw funding.
This reassessment safeguards the integrity of the scheme, ensuring that resources are allocated where they are most needed.
4. Reapplication for Returning Students
Returning students, including those progressing through their academic journey with NSFAS funding, must reapply to confirm their continued eligibility.
This process involves meeting the academic requirements specific to continuing students.
Such reapplication is crucial for maintaining a transparent and fair allocation of funds, ensuring that ongoing students remain committed to their academic goals and adhere to the eligibility criteria.
5. Changes in Institution Types
Students who switch between different types of institutions, such as moving from a Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college to a university, need to reapply for NSFAS funding.
This requirement acknowledges the varying costs and structures of different educational institutions.
It ensures that funding is accurately allocated based on the specific financial needs associated with each type of institution.
6. Requirement for Deregistered or Dropout Students
Students who de-register or drop out during an academic term must reapply for NSFAS funding if they wish to resume their studies in future terms.
This policy is in place to manage the allocation of funds effectively, recognizing that circumstances can change significantly between the time a student leaves and when they decide to return to their studies.
Reapplication allows NSFAS to reassess the student’s current situation and eligibility.
7. One Qualification at a Time
NSFAS funding is designated for students pursuing one qualification at a time, at a single institution.
This policy ensures focused use of financial resources, encouraging students to complete their current studies before undertaking another qualification.
It reflects NSFAS’s commitment to helping as many students as possible by distributing funds effectively.
8. Acceptance of Bursary Agreement Terms
Applicants must accept the terms and conditions outlined in the NSFAS Bursary Agreement (NBA) at the application stage.
This acceptance signifies the student’s understanding and agreement to the obligations and responsibilities attached to the bursary program.
The NBA is a binding document that ensures both parties – the student and NSFAS – are clear about the expectations and requirements of the funding arrangement.
This mutual understanding is crucial for maintaining a transparent and accountable financial aid system.
9. Acceptance of NBA upon Receipt
The issuance and acceptance of the NBA is a critical step in the NSFAS process.
New applicants, as well as returning and continuing students, are deemed to have accepted the NBA once it is issued and they start benefiting from the bursary.
Unless explicitly rejected, this acceptance is automatic.
This process ensures that all parties are aware of and agree to the terms of the financial support, thereby establishing a clear and binding agreement.
10. Disclosure of Other Bursaries
Students who receive full bursaries from other sources must inform NSFAS within 10 days of receipt.
Subsequently, their NSFAS funding will be withdrawn, and they are required to refund any excess funds.
In cases of partial bursaries from other sources, NSFAS must be informed, which may lead to a reduction in NSFAS funding.
This policy prevents duplication of funding and ensures equitable distribution of financial resources among students who need them most.
11. Replacement Funding
Students who lose financial aid from another source during an academic term are eligible to apply for NSFAS funding, provided they meet all the eligibility criteria.
This provision offers a safety net for students facing unforeseen changes in their financial support, ensuring they can continue their education without major disruptions.
12. Compliance with University and TVET College Rules
Students must adhere to the specific funding rules of universities and TVET colleges, such as the University N+ rule or the TVET College N+ rule. Non-compliance may result in the loss of funding.
Additionally, NSFAS funds cannot be used to settle historic debt, unless specified otherwise.
This requirement underscores the importance of adhering to institutional rules and regulations, fostering a disciplined approach to academic progress and financial management among students.