How many points are needed for NSFAS?

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is very important for many South African students, especially those from financially disadvantaged backgrounds.

It helps reduce the financial load of tertiary education by providing funding for tuition fees, living expenses, learning materials, and transport.

However, one of the most common questions potential applicants have is: how many points are needed for NSFAS?

NSFAS Eligibility

While some bursaries might use a points system to determine eligibility, NSFAS does not.

NSFAS funding is awarded based on a holistic assessment of your financial situation and academic merit.

These are the main factors considered by NSFAS:

  1. Financial Need: This is the primary consideration. NSFAS uses a means test to assess your household income and determine your financial need. The lower your household income, the higher your chances of qualifying for NSFAS funding.
  2. South African Citizenship: You must be a South African citizen or a permanent resident with a valid permit to qualify for NSFAS funding.
  3. Academic Progress: NSFAS prioritizes funding for first-degree qualifications. However, if you are already registered for a qualification, you can still apply for NSFAS funding, but maintaining good academic progress becomes crucial to continue receiving funding (more on this later).
  4. Disability Grant Recipients: If you are a recipient of a disability grant from the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), you are automatically eligible for NSFAS funding, regardless of your household income.

What Documents Do I Need to Apply for NSFAS?

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

  1. Your South African ID book or birth certificate (if you are younger than 18).
  2. Your parent/guardian’s ID book or death certificate (if applicable).
  3. Proof of income for your household (payslips, bank statements, SASSA award letters).
  4. Proof of disability (if applicable).
  5. Your latest academic results.

How Many Modules Should I Pass for NSFAS at Unisa?

NSFAS doesn’t mandate a specific number of modules passed as long as you are registered for a full-time undergraduate course.

However, Unisa, as a distance learning institution, has its own academic progress requirements.

To maintain good academic standing for NSFAS funding purposes:

  1. In your first year, you need to pass a minimum of 36 credits (usually equivalent to 3 modules).
  2. In your second year and beyond, the minimum credit requirement increases to 48 credits (usually equivalent to 4 modules).

What Happens if I Fail a Module While Receiving NSFAS Funding?

Failing a module doesn’t necessarily disqualify you from receiving NSFAS funding.

However, NSFAS will require you to submit a clear plan for how you intend to catch up on the failed module.

They may also require additional documentation or meetings to assess your situation.

Can I Apply for NSFAS if I’m Re-registering for a Qualification?

While NSFAS prioritizes funding for first-degree qualifications, you can still apply for funding if you are re-registering for a qualification.

However, the success of your application will depend on the reasons for re-registration and your academic record.

How Much Funding Does NSFAS Provide?

The amount of funding you receive from NSFAS depends on several factors, including your chosen course of study, your location of study (urban or rural), and your household income.

NSFAS funding covers tuition fees and provides an allowance for living expenses, learning materials, and transport.

Where Can I Apply for NSFAS Funding?

You can apply for NSFAS funding online at the NSFAS website or through your chosen institution’s financial aid office.

The application window typically opens in August and closes in September of each year.

How Do I Contact NSFAS?

NSFAS has a dedicated contact center that can answer your questions and guide you through the application process.

You can reach them by phone at 0800 00 NSFAS (0800 00 67327) or by email at