NSFAS stands for National Student Financial Aid Scheme. This is a government organization that provides financial support to disadvantaged students to study at public universities and TVET Colleges.
The funding is meant for students who come from households that earn less than R350 000 per annum.
NSFAS covers for:
- Tuition fees and registration
- Accommodation
- Transport
- Book allowances
- Personal care allowance
The following qualify for NSFAS:
- South African citizens
- Receiving a Sassa grant
- Household income less than R350 000
- Person with disability, whose household income is less than R600 000
- Students who have been studying before 2018, whose household income is less than R122 000
Tho following do not qualify for funding:
- If you already have a previous qualification, you can’t apply to fund a second qualification
- If household income is more than R350 000
- If already received funding
- Studying at a private institution
- Applications usually open in September of each year, ensure that your documents are ready and apply early to avoid delays and disappointments.
Documents required to apply:
- South African identity document or birth certificate
- Documents to show proof of income
- Academic results
- Valid email address and cell phone number
For more information go to their website and be ready to apply when applications open in September 2026 to study in 2027.