Can I apply for NSFAS without parents?

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme is a helpful for many South African students.

It provides financial assistance to those who wouldn’t otherwise be able to afford tertiary education.

But what happens if you’re in a situation where your parents are unable to provide financial information for your NSFAS application?

This article will help you see the options available.

What is the NSFAS Dependency Status?

NSFAS categorizes applicants based on their dependency status.

By default, you’ll be considered dependent on your parents/guardian if you’re under the age of 21.

This means you’ll need to provide their financial information during the application process.

However, there are exceptions to this rule.

You can be considered an independent applicant if you fall under one of the following categories:

  1. Age: You’re 21 years old or older on the application date.
  2. Emancipation: You’ve been legally emancipated from your parents/guardian.
  3. Orphan: You’ve lost both biological parents.
  4. Disability: You have a permanent disability that renders you financially dependent on yourself.
  5. Vulnerable Child: You’ve been declared a vulnerable child by the Department of Social Development.
  6. Supporting Yourself: You can demonstrably prove you’re financially self-sufficient.

Applying as an Independent Applicant

If you meet any of the criteria, you can proceed with applying as an independent applicant.

Here’s what you’ll need to do:

  1. Gather Required Documents:
    • Certified copy of your ID or birth certificate.
    • Signed and completed NSFAS consent form.
    • Proof of your income (payslips, bank statements, etc.) for the past 12 months (if applicable).
    • Supporting documents for your independent status (death certificates for deceased parents, legal documents for emancipation, etc.)
  2. Complete the Application Form: During the online application process, clearly indicate your independent status and provide the necessary supporting documentation.
  3. Contact NSFAS: If you have any questions or require further guidance, don’t hesitate to contact NSFAS directly through their website or by calling their contact center at 0800 00 NSFAS (0800 00 67327).

What documents do I need to apply for NSFAS as an independent applicant?

You’ll need a certified copy of your ID or birth certificate, a signed NSFAS consent form, proof of your income for the past year, and supporting documents that verify your independent status (death certificates, legal documents, etc.).

Can I still apply as an independent applicant if I live with a relative who supports me financially?

Unfortunately, living with a relative who supports you financially doesn’t automatically qualify you as an independent applicant for NSFAS purposes.

You’ll need to fall under one of the specific categories mentioned earlier (orphan, emancipated, etc.) to be considered independent.

What if I don’t have any income proof?

If you’re unemployed but have alternative means of financial support (e.g. bursary, scholarship), you can provide documentation for that instead of payslips.

How will NSFAS assess my financial need if I’m an independent applicant?

NSFAS will assess your financial need based on your own income and any other financial resources you have access to.

What are the deadlines for applying for NSFAS as an independent applicant?

The application deadlines for NSFAS are the same for both dependent and independent applicants.

Be sure to check the NSFAS website for the latest deadlines.

What happens if my NSFAS application gets rejected?

If your NSFAS application gets rejected, you’ll receive a notification with the reason for rejection.

You have the right to appeal the decision if you believe there was an error in the assessment.

The NSFAS website provides detailed information on the appeals process.