How Many Times Can NSFAS Fund You?

How Many Times Can NSFAS Fund You?

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) in South Africa provides financial assistance to eligible students pursuing their first undergraduate qualification. Funding typically covers the standard duration of a program, three years for diplomas, four years for degrees, and extended programs as required. NSFAS generally funds only one qualification at a time and does not support multiple qualifications or postgraduate studies.

Students who have already studied at a university or earned a university qualification are not considered FTEN (First-Time Entering New) students, even if they are starting a new qualification. However, if a student is enrolling in a university qualification for the first time but has already completed a TVET qualification, they do qualify as a university FTEN student.

However, students progressing from a higher certificate to a diploma or degree may still receive funding as part of their academic advancement. Eligibility for continued funding depends on meeting academic requirements, such as passing modules and adhering to institutional progression policies. While NSFAS does not usually fund an additional qualification after completion, there is no limit to the number of times a student can apply for financial aid.

Who Is Eligible For NSFAS?

You can apply for NSFAS if you are a South African citizen or permanent resident.

Income Requirements:

Bursary: Household income must be R350,000 or less per year (before deductions).
Loan: Household income must be between R350,000 and R600,000 per year (before deductions).
Persons with Disabilities: Household income must be R600,000 or less per year (before deductions).

Who Can Reapply For NSFAS?

You qualify to re-apply for NSFAS funding if you are a;

Returning students following the NSFAS academic pathways must reapply and meet the academic eligibility requirements for continuing students.
Students who change institution types (e.g., from TVET to university or vice versa) must reapply for funding.
Students who deregister or drop out during an academic term and wish to resume their studies in future terms must reapply during the regular NSFAS application period.

Who Cannot Apply for NSFAS?

You cannot apply for NSFAS if:

You are receiving full funding from non-NSFAS sources.
You have already completed an undergraduate qualification and want to do another one.
You have earned a certificate qualification and want to study for another certificate.
You are studying at a private institution.
Your program is not approved by DHET or accredited by SAQA.

How To Apply For NSFAS

Follow the steps below to apply online for NSFAS;

Create a profile:

Create a myNSFAS account via this link: https://my.nsfas.org.za/ or download the NSFAS App on Google Play or App Store. Your ID number will be your username.

Apply now:

Click on the “Apply’ tab to update your personal information and upload your application supporting documents, as indicated.

Complete:

Submit your application.

READ: Will NSFAS Fund Me for 5 Years?

Requirements To Apply For NSFAS

The following are required to apply for NSFAS;

NSFAS Declaration Form

Required for non-SASSA applicants.
Must be completed by a school principal or social worker.

Orphan and Vulnerable Child Declaration Form

For applicants under 18 years old.
Must be completed by a social worker (non-SASSA applicants only).

NSFAS Consent Form

Must be signed by the applicant and/or their parent(s), guardian, or spouse.
SASSA recipients do not need to submit this form.

Proof of Legal Guardianship

If you have a court-appointed legal guardian, you must submit official documents issued by the court.

Non-Court-Appointed Guardianship

If your guardian is not court-appointed, you’ll need to submit the NSFAS Declaration Form instead.

Disability Annexure Form

Required for applicants with disabilities.
Must be completed by a certified medical professional (e.g., doctor, optometrist, physiotherapist, or head of a disability unit).
Should confirm the disability status and detail any support needs.

Contact NSFAS

Email: info@nsfas.org.za
Facebook: National Student Financial Aid Scheme
Twitter: @myNSFAS
Instagram: @myNSFAS
WhatsApp: +27 63 093 5671
USSD:*120*67327#

Visit the official website of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme for more information. I hope the provided information is helpful, share your thoughts below in the comment section.

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