What are the differences between NSFAS and Funza Lushaka Bursary

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) and the Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme both offer valuable support for students seeking financial aid for tertiary education.

However, they cater to distinct needs and have different features.

This article will go into details about the main differences between NSFAS and Funza Lushaka to help you make an informed decision about your financial aid strategy.

Who is NSFAS For?

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

Its primary focus is on promoting access to higher education for students who would otherwise struggle to afford tuition fees and living expenses.

NSFAS supports students enrolled at accredited public universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges across the country.

Who is Funza Lushaka For?

The Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme, on the other hand, has a specific target audience.

It aims to address the shortage of qualified educators in South Africa by attracting talented individuals to the teaching profession.

This bursary program prioritizes South Africans aspiring to become educators, particularly those pursuing Bachelor of Education (BEd) degrees.

What are the NSFAS and Funza Lushaka Bursary Eligibility Criteria?

Understanding the eligibility criteria is vital when considering which bursary program best suits your needs.

  1. NSFAS Eligibility:
    • South African citizen or permanent resident with a valid permit.
    • Financial need based on a household income means test.
    • Academic performance may be considered depending on the funding category.
    • Disability status may also be a factor.
  2. Funza Lushaka Bursary Eligibility:
    • South African citizen.
    • Typically requires a matric certificate with exemption from Afrikaans (requirements may vary slightly between universities).
    • Age limitations often apply, with most universities setting the upper limit at 30 years old.
    • A strong commitment to a career in teaching is a significant advantage.

Detailed information on eligibility and the application process can be found on the Department of Basic Education’s Funza Lushaka website.

What are the NSFAS and Funza Lushaka Bursary Funding Coverages?

The type and extent of financial support provided by each bursary program differ.

  1. NSFAS Funding Coverage:
    • Tuition fees: NSFAS covers the full cost of tuition at public universities and TVET colleges.
    • Accommodation allowance: This varies depending on your location, living arrangements (on-campus or off-campus), and disability status.
    • Learning materials allowance: A fixed amount is allocated for textbooks and other essential study materials.
    • Living allowance: This provides financial support for basic living expenses like food and transport. The amount is determined by your location and living arrangements.
  2. Funza Lushaka Bursary Coverage:
    • Tuition fees: The primary focus of Funza Lushaka bursaries is covering tuition fees for teaching qualifications.
    • In some cases, a limited living allowance may be provided, but this is not guaranteed.

What are the Durations of Funding?

The duration of funding is another key distinction between the two bursary programs.

  1. NSFAS Funding Duration:
    • NSFAS generally follows the N+1 rule. This means they will fund you for the standard duration of your chosen qualification, plus an additional year if needed to complete your studies. For example, a three-year degree program would be funded for a maximum of four years.
  2. Funza Lushaka Bursary Duration:
    • The Funza Lushaka bursary is awarded for one academic year at a time. Renewal for subsequent years depends on maintaining good academic performance and the availability of funds. You will need to reapply for the bursary each year.

Work Commitment After Graduation

NSFAS bursaries do not typically have a mandatory work commitment after graduation.

However, some funding categories may have specific requirements related to studying in scarce skill areas designated by the government.

Funza Lushaka bursaries, on the other hand, come with a mandatory service agreement.

Upon graduation, recipients are required to teach at a public school for the same number of years that they received the bursary.

This is to address the shortage of qualified teachers in South African schools.

Does NSFAS fund teaching degrees?

While NSFAS doesn’t specifically target teaching qualifications, it can indeed cover the cost of a Bachelor of Education degree as long as it falls within the approved study fields at your chosen institution.

However, NSFAS currently doesn’t fund postgraduate studies like the Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE).

Can I apply for both NSFAS and Funza Lushaka?

Yes, you can apply for both programs simultaneously.

But since Funza Lushaka is administered through NSFAS, receiving one bursary automatically disqualifies you from the other.

So just choose the program that best aligns with your career goals and eligibility criteria.