Does NSFAS fund 40 year olds?

Age is often a concern for individuals considering applying for NSFAS funding.

Fortunately, NSFAS does not have an age limit for applicants.

As long as you meet the eligibility criteria set out by NSFAS, you can apply for funding regardless of your age.

This is excellent news for individuals who may be considering returning to school later in life or pursuing a first qualification.

However, there are other factors to consider when applying for NSFAS funding.

What are the Eligibility Criteria for NSFAS Funding?

To be eligible for NSFAS funding, you must meet the following criteria:

  1. South African Citizenship: You must be a South African citizen.
  2. Financial Need: Your combined household income must fall below the NSFAS threshold, which is currently R350,000 per year (increased to R600,000 for applicants with disabilities).
  3. SASSA Grant Recipient: If you or a member of your household receives a SASSA grant, you automatically qualify for NSFAS funding regardless of your household income.
  4. Academic Record: You must meet the minimum academic entry requirements for your chosen program of study.
  5. Previous Qualifications: Generally, NSFAS funding is not available for students pursuing a second undergraduate degree. However, exceptions may exist for specific scarce skills programs.
  6. Registration Status: You must be registered at a public university or TVET college in South Africa.

Is There a Funding Limit Based on Age for NSFAS?

No, NSFAS does not have a specific funding limit based on age.

However, they do implement a funding duration policy known as the “N+ Rule.”

This rule dictates the maximum duration of NSFAS funding for a specific qualification.

For example, the N+ rule for a Bachelor’s degree is typically N+3.

This means that NSFAS will fund a Bachelor’s degree for a maximum of three years beyond the standard program duration (usually four years).

It’s important to note that the N+ Rule can be affected by factors such as academic performance, course changes, or medical leave.

Make sure to consult the NSFAS website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on the N+ Rule and how it applies to your specific situation.

What are the Required Documents when Applying for NSFAS Funding?

To apply for NSFAS funding, you will need to gather the following documents:

  1. Completed NSFAS application form
  2. Certified copy of your South African ID document
  3. Proof of income for yourself and your household members (payslips, bank statements, SASSA award letter etc.)
  4. Proof of disability (if applicable)
  5. Proof of registration at your chosen institution

Applying for NSFAS Funding with a Completed Qualification

NSFAS funding is generally not available for students who have already completed a full qualification at a tertiary level.

However, there are some exceptions.

  1. Incomplete Qualifications: If you previously started but did not complete a qualification, you may be eligible for NSFAS funding to return and finish your studies.
  2. Postgraduate Studies: NSFAS does offer limited funding for postgraduate (honours and masters) degrees in specific scarce skills fields.

If you are unsure whether you qualify due to a previous qualification, it’s best to contact NSFAS directly for clarification.