Will NSFAS fund me for 5 years?

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a major source of support for many South African students as it provides financial aid to cover the costs of tertiary education.

But a common question for prospective students is: will NSFAS funding last the entire duration of my studies?

This article goes into the details of NSFAS funding periods, eligibility for extended funding, and explores alternative options if your program exceeds the standard duration.

How long does NSFAS funding last?

NSFAS funding is generally awarded for the standard duration of your chosen qualification.

This means the funding will cover the minimum number of years required to complete your specific degree or diploma program.

Here’s a breakdown:

1. Undergraduate Degrees: Most undergraduate degrees in South Africa take three years to complete. NSFAS funding will typically cover these three years.
2. Diploma Programs: Diplomas typically take one to two years to complete, and NSFAS funding will reflect this duration.
3. Honours Degrees: Honours degrees are an additional year of study following an undergraduate degree. As of 2021, NSFAS discontinued funding for postgraduate qualifications, including honours degrees.

Can I get NSFAS funding for a postgraduate degree?

NSFAS no longer funds postgraduate qualifications, including honours degrees, master’s degrees, and PhDs.

This policy change came into effect in 2021.

However, students who were already receiving NSFAS funding for postgraduate courses in 2020 were granted continued support to complete their specific program.

For postgraduate funding options, you can explore resources from the National Research Foundation (NRF).

The NRF offers various bursary and scholarship programs for postgraduate studies.

What happens to my NSFAS funding if I fail a year?

NSFAS understands that academic setbacks can occur. To support students facing academic challenges, NSFAS offers an N+ rule.

This rule allows for an additional year of funding if you fail a year in your program.

This provides some flexibility to get back on track without losing financial support.

However, it’s important to note that the N+ rule is not based on the total number of years you’ve received NSFAS funding.

Instead, it focuses on the number of years you’ve been registered for the specific program at a public university in South Africa.

Can I extend my NSFAS funding beyond the standard duration?

While NSFAS funding typically aligns with the standard program duration, there are limited circumstances where you might qualify for extended support:

1. Medical Conditions: If a documented medical condition impacts your studies and requires additional time to complete your program, you may be eligible for an application to extend funding.
2. Academic Progress Appeals: In exceptional cases, if you can demonstrate exceptional academic progress despite exceeding the standard duration, you may be able to appeal for extended funding. However, these appeals are highly scrutinized and success rates are low.

What are some funding options for programs longer than 5 years?

If your chosen program exceeds the standard duration typically funded by NSFAS, here are some alternative options to consider:

1. Merit-Based Scholarships: Many universities offer merit-based scholarships to academically exceptional students. These scholarships can help cover a portion of your tuition fees. Research scholarship opportunities directly through your chosen university’s financial aid office.
2. Industry-Specific Bursaries: Some industries and professions offer bursary programs for students pursuing specific qualifications. Explore bursary opportunities offered by professional bodies or industry associations related to your field of study.
3. Private Loan Programs: Private loan programs can be an option, but proceed with caution. You must carefully research interest rates and repayment terms before committing to a loan.