Contact NSFAS: Facebook message Tel No.: 0860 067 327 Email: info@nsfas.org.za
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme, NSFAS, offer financial support for tertiary study in the form of loans and bursaries. How do you get your hands on some of this money? Read on to find out!
NSFAS is a financial pool mostly funded by the Department of Education. Its aim is to support tertiary costs for families who can demonstrate financial need. If your family income is under R320 000/ year BEFORE DEDUCTIONS, NSFAS could be the answer. There are some things you should understand about NSFAS before you commence your application.
What can you do to ensure you have the best chance of being funded?
- Apply on time!
| All public universities, universities of technology and colleges | First years and new applicants apply online between 01 Sep & 30 Nov. |
| Private universities and colleges | NSFAS do not fund private colleges even if the courses are accredited |
| Not applying for the first year? | NSFAS will contact your institute to find out your grades and they will notify you by SMS or post once this is complete. If you passed your subjects with an average of 50% or more, you will be funded again. You do not need to apply but do make sure your contact details are current. |
- Apply with all the correct paperwork!
| Your ID and IDs of parent(s) and guardian(s) living with you | This is a not-negotiable. Your application will not be processed without IDs. . |
| Proof of your family income being under R320 000 per year, before deductions. If your family has no income except SASSA then you leave the income section blank. |
|
I didn’t get funded, what went wrong?
If you didn’t get funded then one of the following happened:
- You did not achieve minimum academic standards
- Your form was late
- Your form was incomplete
- You changed contact details and did not let NSFAS know
- You didn’t sign your SOP/LAF (funding agreement) in time
You can appeal a NSFAS decision however you cannot appeal if you were late or your application was incomplete. More information about appeals processes.
I am going to be funded, when will I get the money?
If you are being funded for the first time, you can expect your funding by APRIL. Although, in 2018 some learners were not funded until JULY. This is after the date when you pay registration, Res deposits and after needing to buy stationery and text books. Most institutes will complete a means test with you and be aware of whether or not you are eligible. Based on this, they will put in a claim to the NSFAS office and NSFAS may give the go ahead for you to register and go into Res, with agreement that your payment will follow after the due date. You should check with your Financial Aid office and be clear about the procedures at your institute.
Next week’s blog will cover NSFAS Bursaries and more about funding allocation. You can also read more on the NSFAS website.
