NSFAS for Students With Disabilities, Requirement and How to Apply

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a South African government initiative that provides financial assistance to students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

This aid helps cover the cost of tuition fees and living expenses for eligible students pursuing higher education at public universities and TVET colleges.

Recognizing the unique challenges faced by students with disabilities, NSFAS offers additional support specifically tailored to their needs.

Who is eligible for NSFAS Disability Funding?

To qualify for NSFAS funding as a student with a disability, you must meet the following criteria:

  1. South African Citizenship or Permanent Residency: You must be a South African citizen or permanent resident.
  2. Disability Registration: You must be registered with a recognized disability organization or have a medical certificate from a registered healthcare professional confirming your disability.
  3. Financial Need: Your combined household income must not exceed R600,000 per annum (compared to the standard R350,000 for non-disabled applicants).
  4. Public Institution Enrollment: You must be enrolled or planning to enroll for a full-time qualification at a public university or TVET college in South Africa.
  5. SASSA Recipient Advantage: If you are a SASSA grant recipient, your financial eligibility is automatically approved.

What documents do I need to apply for NSFAS Disability Funding?

In addition to the standard NSFAS application documents, students with disabilities need to submit the following:

  1. Completed NSFAS Disability Annexure A: This form details your disability and the support you require during your studies. It must be completed by a registered healthcare professional familiar with your disability. You can download the latest version of Annexure A from the NSFAS website.
  2. Proof of Disability: This could be a medical certificate from a registered medical practitioner, psychologist, or other relevant healthcare professional confirming your disability.

How do I apply for NSFAS Disability Funding?

The NSFAS application process opens between August and October each year. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  1. Create a myNSFAS Account: Visit the NSFAS website and register for a myNSFAS account.
  2. Apply During the Application Period: Once the application window opens, log in to your myNSFAS account and select “Apply.” Choose the appropriate application cycle.
  3. Complete the Application Form: Fill out the online application form carefully and accurately. Ensure all information, particularly regarding your disability, is complete.
  4. Upload Supporting Documents: Upload all required documents, including the completed Disability Annexure A, proof of disability, proof of citizenship/residency, and household income documents. Double-check that the documents are in the correct format and meet the file size limit.
  5. Review and Submit: Thoroughly review your application before submitting it electronically. Remember, late submissions are not accepted.

What kind of support does NSFAS offer for students with disabilities?

The type of support offered by NSFAS depends on your specific needs as outlined in your Disability Annexure A. This may include:

  1. Additional allowances: You may receive additional funding to cover disability-related expenses like assistive devices, transport, or a personal care assistant.
  2. Disability support services: Public universities and TVET colleges often have disability support units that can provide academic and practical assistance. NSFAS funding can help cover the cost of these services.

How do I find out if my NSFAS Disability Funding application is successful?

You can track the status of your application by logging into your myNSFAS account.

NSFAS will also notify you directly via email or SMS about the outcome of your application.

What can I do if my NSFAS Disability Funding application is rejected?

If your application is unsuccessful, you have the right to appeal the decision.

The NSFAS website provides detailed information on the appeals process.