How many times can NSFAS fund you?

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) helps out many South African students by providing them with financial support to pursue higher education.

Understanding NSFAS funding eligibility is necessary for students who are planning their academic journeys. 

NSFAS Funding Principles

NSFAS prioritizes supporting first-time access to higher education, particularly for students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds.

Their funding model reflects this mission, with limitations on the number of qualifications and duration of support.

These are some of the main principles:

  1. One Qualification at a Time: NSFAS generally funds students for only one undergraduate qualification at a single institution. This ensures resources are spread wider and support more students.
  2. Funding Duration: Funding is limited to the official duration of your chosen qualification. For instance, a three-year Bachelor’s degree would receive funding for three years only.
  3. Focus on Undergraduate Studies: NSFAS primarily caters to undergraduate studies. Postgraduate studies are not normally funded, with some exceptions.

Can NSFAS Fund You Twice?

While the core principle is funding one qualification, there are limited exceptions where NSFAS may consider supporting you a second time:

  1. Switching Between TVET and University: If you hold a National Certificate Vocational (NCV) qualification (obtained through a Technical and Vocational Education and Training college, TVET), you may be eligible for NSFAS funding to pursue a university degree for the first time.
  2. Qualifying for Scarce Skills Programs: NSFAS prioritizes funding scarce skills programs deemed crucial for the South African economy. If your initial qualification doesn’t fall under this category, but you wish to pursue a scarce skill program, you might be reconsidered for funding. However, strict criteria and justifications are required. Contact NSFAS directly for the latest list of scarce skills programs.
  3. Postgraduate Funding Exceptions (Rare): In rare instances, NSFAS may offer funding for specific postgraduate qualifications. These are B Tech degrees in fields like Architecture, Biokinetics, or Biotechnology, where a postgraduate qualification is a professional requirement.

Even if your situation falls under one of the exceptions, receiving second-time funding is not guaranteed.

Can NSFAS Fund a Second Degree?

In most cases, NSFAS does not fund second degrees as their focus is on first-time access to higher education.

However, the exceptions mentioned above offer possibilities for receiving funding for a second qualification that differs from your first degree.

Does NSFAS Fund Honors Degrees?

Honors degrees are considered part of an undergraduate qualification and are often not funded separately by NSFAS.

However, if your honors degree forms an integral part of a four-year program leading to a professional qualification, funding might be available.

It’s advisable to contact NSFAS directly for clarification on your specific program.

Can NSFAS Fund My Degree if I Completed a Diploma?

If your diploma is a National Diploma (ND) obtained from a university of technology, it’s considered equivalent to the first two years of a Bachelor’s degree.

In this case, NSFAS may be able to fund the remaining years of your degree.

However, for diplomas obtained from TVET colleges, you might be eligible for NSFAS funding for a university degree program, provided it’s your first undergraduate qualification.

How Do I Apply for NSFAS Funding for a Second Qualification?

The application process for NSFAS funding remains the same regardless of whether it’s your first or second qualification.

You can apply through the online NSFAS portal during the designated application period.

However, during the application process, you’ll need to clearly explain why you require funding for a second qualification and ensure your situation falls under one of the exceptions I mentioned earlier.