National Student Financial Aid Scheme

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NSFAS Bursary Information

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government entity under the Department of Higher Education and Training. It was established through the NSFAS Act (Act 56 of 1999) to provide financial assistance to disadvantaged students who aim to further their studies at public universities or TVET colleges in South Africa.

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What Does the NSFAS Bursary Cover?

The bursary covers the following amounts, aligned with the latest DHET (Department of Higher Education and Training) guidelines:

For University Students

  • Accommodation: As per the actual costs charged by the university (private accommodation costs must not exceed those of university residences).
  • Transport: Up to 40 km from the institution, capped at R7,500 per annum.
  • Living Allowance: R15,000 per annum.
  • Book Allowance: R5,200 per annum.
  • Incidental/Personal Care Allowance: R2,900 per annum (for students in catered residences).

For TVET College Students

  • Accommodation:
    • Urban area: R24,000 per annum.
    • Peri-urban area: R18,900 per annum.
    • Rural area: R15,750 per annum.
  • Transport:
    • Up to 40 km from the institution: R7,350 per annum.
    • Over 40 km: R7,000 per annum.
  • Incidental/Personal Care Allowance: R2,900 per annum.

Who Qualifies for NSFAS Funding?

  • South African citizens.
  • SASSA grant recipients automatically qualify for funding.
  • Applicants with a combined household income of not more than R350,000 per annum.
  • Applicants with disabilities, whose combined household income is not more than R600,000 per annum.
  • Students who started studying before 2018 and have a household income of no more than R122,000 per annum.

Who Should Not Apply?

  • Students who have already completed a qualification.
  • Students with a combined household income of more than R350,000 per annum.
  • Students who have already applied, qualified, and received NSFAS funding. They will be automatically funded for the duration of their studies, provided they pass their modules and meet academic requirements.

For further details, you can visit the NSFAS website or contact their support services.

Click Here to View NSFAS Bursary