National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) in South Africa will begin accepting online applications for financial aid for the 2025 academic year starting on Friday, 20 September 2024. Students who need financial assistance to cover their education expenses for the next year can apply through the NSFAS online portal starting from that date. Application procedure and other important details are given here.
How to Apply for NSFAS 2025?
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has announced the application deadlines for the 2024 academic terms at TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) institutions. Prospective students are encouraged to apply as per the following schedule:
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| NSFAS 2025 Online Applications Launch | Friday, 20 September 2024 |
Application Process
- Sign Up: Go to www.nsfas.org.za apply and create an account on myNSFAS if you haven’t already.
- Log In: Use your new account credentials to log in to myNSFAS.
- Start Application: Look for the “Apply” option on the website and click on it.
- Check Information: Make sure all your personal details are correct before proceeding.
- Upload Documents: Scan and upload any required documents, like proof of income and ID.
- Fill out Form: Complete the online application form with your educational and financial details.
- Review and Submit: Double-check all information and click “SUBMIT” when you’re ready.
- Confirmation: You’ll receive a confirmation message once your application is submitted successfully.
Requirement for Nsfas
Application has a few requirements that applicants must meet before they may apply to the program.
Anyone who meets the following criteria may apply to NSFAS:
- You must first be a legal resident of South Africa.
- Second, you have to be in serious straits financially to get approved. The authorities base their decision on the results of an NSFAS-administered means test.
- Requires a strong academic history
- Have completed high school or its equivalent.
- Those who lost their parents
- Youngsters of unemployed parents
- Get latest update about NSFAS status check.
Who is not eligible for the NSFAS?
- You are presently enrolled in one course and have a second-course application pending.
- You and your family have lived in the same house for at least a year and earn more than R350000 annually. This means you can receive full financial aid for your undergraduate education.
Documents Needed to Apply for Nsfas 2025
A student applying for NSFAS 2025 should have all the required documents on hand before beginning the application process. We will automatically upload the required materials if you complete the application online. However, such supporting materials will be offered manually when you submit your application.
All applicants must provide:
- Valid South African ID number of Applicant
- Valid South African ID number of parent(s), guardian or spouse.
- Income information where applicable.
Students with disabilities must provide:
- A completed and signed Disability Annexure A Form (available on the website)
Students -who has indicated no family members details must provide:
- An applicant who has indicated that s/he has no family member details must complete the Declaration Form (available on the website)
Other documents
- Retrenchment letter,
- Death certificate/s
- Divorce Decree
- Proof of legal guardianship
- Marriage certificate
Note: No affidavits or copy of driver’s license will be accepted as proof of ID.
- Check the details about provisionally funded meaning.
FAQs
Do I need to reapply for NSFAS every year?
It is optional for students to reapply for financing each year through the NSFAS. You won’t have to reapply for financial help every year because you’ll keep getting your allowances, and they’ll cover your tuition for your studies.
How much time does NSFAS need to validate documents?
It may take NSFAS up to six weeks to verify your supplied documentation.
Are all international students welcome to apply?
No, only citizens of South Africa are eligible for the NSFAS stipend. And they are the only ones selected to receive funding from the program. Therefore, non-South African citizens and permanent residents are not eligible to apply for this award.
For how many years can NSFAS pay for my qualification?
NSFAS will provide funding for up to five years of your education. The National Science Foundation and its Associate’s Program will fund your education for up to five years if you meet the minimum GPA requirements.
What is the passing rate requirement for NSFAS?
First-time NSFAS grant applicants must have a 50% or higher cumulative grade point average from the previous academic year. However, current NSFAS grantees must have maintained a 55% GPA or better in the most recent academic year to continue receiving their stipend.
Is NSFAS a bursary or a loan?
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a student loan program. Once the students have returned the funds, NSFAS is allowed to collect them. Therefore, after completing their certification and earning at least R30,000 per year (via employment or the establishment of a business they own), they would be expected to initiate repaying.
The program provides students with access to cash loans to help defray higher education costs. The loan is intended to assist students in meeting the financial demands of higher education, including costs associated with attendance at college.