The NSFAS office in Capetown

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme plays an important role in supporting South African students from disadvantaged backgrounds in pursuing higher education.

If you’re a Cape Town resident seeking information on NSFAS services or require assistance with your application, this guide is for you.

We’ll go into everything you need to know about the NSFAS office in Cape Town, including its location, contact details, services offered, and additional resources.

What is NSFAS?

NSFAS is a government-funded financial aid scheme that provides eligible students with financial support to cover the costs of tuition fees, living expenses, and essential learning materials.

Who Qualifies for NSFAS funding?

Qualification for NSFAS funding is based on several factors, including:

  1. Financial need: Your household income must fall below the NSFAS income threshold.
  2. Citizenship: You must be a South African citizen.
  3. Studies: You must be registered for a qualification at a public university or Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college in South Africa.
  4. Academic performance: You must meet the specific academic performance requirements set by NSFAS for your chosen field of study.

The NSFAS Office in Cape Town Location and Contact Details

The NSFAS office in Cape Town is situated at:

  • Physical Address: 4 Christiaan Barnard St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8000, South Africa.
  • Contact Number: +27 80 006 7327

Due to COVID-19 regulations, it’s advisable to contact the NSFAS office beforehand to confirm their operating hours and inquire if in-person visits require appointments.

Services Offered at the NSFAS Office in Cape Town

While NSFAS offers various online services through their website and myNSFAS portal, the Cape Town office provides in-person support for students.

These are some of the services you can expect:

  1. Application assistance: If you’re experiencing difficulties with the online application process, NSFAS staff can offer guidance and support to ensure your application is completed accurately and submitted on time.
  2. Status updates: You can inquire about the status of your application and receive updates on your funding approval.
  3. Queries and troubleshooting: The NSFAS staff can address any questions or concerns you may have regarding your application, funding eligibility, or general NSFAS procedures.
  4. Financial aid appeals: If your NSFAS application is unsuccessful, you can lodge a formal appeal at the Cape Town office. They will guide you through the appeals process and provide the necessary forms.

What documents do I need to apply for NSFAS funding?

This is a list of essential documents required for your NSFAS application:

  1. South African ID book/birth certificate (if under 18).
  2. Proof of income for your parents/guardian or a sworn affidavit if unemployed.
  3. Proof of disability (if applicable).
  4. Official acceptance letter from your university or TVET college.
  5. Your school report for the previous year (Grade 11 for first-year applications).

How do I track the status of my NSFAS application?

You can track your application status through the following methods:

  1. Online: Create a myNSFAS account on the NSFAS website for real-time updates.
  2. USSD: Dial 12067327# for basic application status information.
  3. Contact Centre: Call the NSFAS contact centre (0800 067 327) and choose the option for application enquiries.

What are the NSFAS office hours in Cape Town?

NSFAS operates from a central location and doesn’t have dedicated office hours in Cape Town.

Their general contact center hours are:

  • Monday – Thursday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM SAST
  • Friday: 8:00 AM – 1:30 PM SAST
  • Saturday -Sunday: Closed

Can I visit the NSFAS office in Cape Town in person?

NSFAS currently doesn’t offer in-person services at their Cape Town location.

They encourage utilizing their online platforms, email, social media, and the contact centre for assistance.

What if I have a complaint about NSFAS?

If you have a complaint about NSFAS services or a funding decision, you can follow these steps:

  1. Lodge a formal complaint through the NSFAS website.
  2. Contact the Public Protector South Africa for unresolved complaints.