When Are NSFAS Applications Opening For?

NSFAS grants financial aid to cover tuition fees and living expenses in order to make higher education a possibility for needy students. 

The application window for NSFAS funding operates on a yearly cycle.

Applications for the 2024 academic year opened on 21 November 2023 and closed on 31 January 2024.

What are the NSFAS Application Deadlines?

NSFAS operates on an annual application cycle.

NSFAS applications for the 2024 academic year opened on 21 November 2023 and closed on 31 January 2024.

This application window has now passed.

Can I Still Apply for NSFAS Funding in 2024?

Applications for the 2024 academic year are closed. However, there might be a few exceptions:

  1. Semester 2 Applications (TVET Colleges Only): For students enrolled in TVET colleges, there is a separate application window for semester 2 funding. The application period for semester 2 of 2 will likely open in July 2024. Keep an eye on the NSFAS website and official social media pages for confirmation.
  2. Appeals Process: If you applied for NSFAS funding for 2024 and your application was rejected, you may be eligible to appeal the decision. The appeals process opens after the application deadline and allows you to challenge the rejection based on specific criteria.

How Do I Know If I Qualify for NSFAS Funding?

To be eligible for NSFAS funding, you must meet the following criteria:

  1. South African Citizenship: You must be a South African citizen.
  2. Financial Need: You must come from a household with a combined gross income that falls below the NSFAS threshold. The exact threshold amount is adjusted annually and can be found on the NSFAS website.
  3. Academic Progress: You must be a registered student at a public university or TVET college in South Africa. There are also specific academic performance requirements depending on your year of study.
  4. Disability Support: If you have a disability, NSFAS offers additional support.

What Documents Do I Need to Apply for NSFAS?

When the application window opens again, you will need to gather the following documents for your NSFAS application:

  1. Your South African ID book
  2. Your parents’/guardian’s ID documents (if financially dependent)
  3. Proof of income for yourself and your parents/guardian (payslips, tax certificates, etc.)
  4. Your latest school report or academic transcript
  5. Proof of registration at your university or TVET college

Where to Find the NSFAS Online Application Form?

The NSFAS online application form is available on the NSFAS website during the application period.

What Happens After I Submit My NSFAS Application?

Once you submit your NSFAS application, it will be assessed based on your eligibility criteria and supporting documents.

You will receive communication from NSFAS regarding the outcome of your application.

If your application is successful, you will be notified of the funding amount you will receive.

Who can apply for NSFAS funding?

NSFAS funding is primarily targeted towards South African citizens from low-income households.

To be eligible, you must meet specific requirements regarding income, citizenship, and academic record.

You can find the detailed eligibility criteria on the NSFAS website.

How do I apply for NSFAS funding?

Applications for NSFAS funding are done entirely online through the myNSFAS portal. 

The application process is relatively straightforward, but ensure you have all the necessary documents scanned and saved electronically before starting.

What happens after I submit my NSFAS application?

Once you submit your application, NSFAS will assess your eligibility based on the information provided.

You will receive communication regarding the outcome of your application within a few months.

What if my NSFAS application is rejected?

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

The appeals process typically involves submitting additional documentation to support your application. 

Specific details and deadlines for appeals are available on the NSFAS website.

How do I contact NSFAS for further information?

For any further inquiries about NSFAS funding or the application process, you can contact them through the following methods:

  1. NSFAS toll-free line: 0800 00 7676
  2. NSFAS email address: [email protected].
  3. Visiting an NSFAS regional office