NSFAS- Show me the money!

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?

  1. 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.

 

  1. 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.
  • Salary slip
  • Letter from employer
  • SARS tax file number

I didn’t get funded, what went wrong?

If you didn’t get funded then one of the following happened:

  1. You did not achieve minimum academic standards
  2. Your form was late
  3. Your form was incomplete
  4. You changed contact details and did not let NSFAS know
  5. 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.

789 replies
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      If you need help applying ask at the fees office of the institute your daughter is studying at. NSFAS funding is only for tertiary education.

      Reply
          • Agcobile
            Agcobile says:

            Hello I would like to know if I want to deregister at my current institution after being funded for first semester, will it find me successfully at a different school second semester? Or

          • Kath Morse
            Kath Morse says:

            Hi, If you are still studying the same course you are allowed to change institutes. All the best, Kath

    • Tumi
      Tumi says:

      Hi I’d like to know..will I pay back the money to nsfas after I’m done with my studies..I’m a first year student in Tvet?

      Reply
    • Thabiso
      Thabiso says:

      Hi Kath

      I got a response from NSFAS stating that my application has been unsuccessful due to “After verification of your application, it was found that your combined annual household income exceeds the threshold amount for this grant.” which i find very surprising because my mom’s salary does not even exceed the R100.000 before deductions, can NSFAS give me another reason why my application was unsuccessful instead of copying and paste the same reason to everyone who’s application was dinied.

      Reply
      • Kath Morse
        Kath Morse says:

        Hi, I suggest you contact them and ask for further verification. One problem might be that your mom’s before tax income is much higher than her after tax income. This could happen if she is paying into a retirement annuity and a medical aid. NSFAS consider before tax income. Also it sounds like they have considered other people in addition to your mom – everyone in your household who earns. If you provided an ID for your father they may have also been able to track down his income via SARS, even if you don’t know where he is. These are all just guesses. You won’t know unless you ask them. Sorry to hear of your financial troubles. All the best, Kath

        Reply
        • Tyroll
          Tyroll says:

          Hi kath my application is on evaluation stage and i have submitted all outstanding docs how long will the process takes from the 6th January

          Reply
          • Kath Morse
            Kath Morse says:

            Hi, NSFAS have not said how long until they finish resolving statuses. Just keep checking and hoping. All the best, Kath

  1. koketso
    koketso says:

    Hi guys I need your help on something…I’ve applied for Nsfas and provided all the documents they’ve asked but when it funded me it only gave me the tuition fees money not the transport one so I need to know what went wrong because my mom even wrote an afidavit saying that I cant afford the transport so can you tell me what’s wrong if you’re relating to my situation.thank you

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, The problem is probably not with your application but with a lack of funds in the NSFAS money pool. NSFAS is not a bank. They have to share limited funds between all the students who apply. I’m not sure what your situation is but you are going to have to get a job to pay the transport or otherwise you are going to have to find someone else to cover your transport fees. It is always a good idea to apply for bursaries as well as your NSFAS. Studietrust (for example) often cover the parts that NSFAS don’t cover however you are too late to apply to them this year.

      Reply
      • chanelle
        chanelle says:

        Hi,I am funded for Nsfas for 2016,but they have not yet paid my fees because I have not yet signed my loan agreementform.because my ccampus says Nsfas has go send an SMS to notify me to sign it.its gone whole year now everyone has signed but they telling me wait for the SMS.can someone please help me?

        Reply
      • Nakedi
        Nakedi says:

        Hi I received a respond from nsfas stating that am successful funded, but when I go to the
        financial aid office at the institution, they are telling me that I am unsuccessful.so I don’t understand.

        Reply
        • Kath Morse
          Kath Morse says:

          Hi, Lots of people are having this same problem at the moment. You will need to contact NSFAS directly and try to sort it out with them. I know it takes ages to get on to them but it will be worth it in the end. All the best, Kath

          Reply
          • precious ndlovu
            precious ndlovu says:

            hi. what happens on the “funding eligibility” step when applying because there are no further instructions given

          • Kath Morse
            Kath Morse says:

            Hi, They are checking if your family meet financial criteria. You don’t need to do anything. Kath

    • Zandile Veronica Ndabayipatwa
      Zandile Veronica Ndabayipatwa says:

      Hi i i need help I’ve applied for nsfas on 2020 and provided all the documents i did not get money for transport nsfas only gave me the tuition fees when i go to bursary office at the college they say u must contact nsfa thank you

      Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, Do you mean you overpaid and want your money back? If so, then you can of course request that the outstanding balance be returned to you.

      Reply
  2. nqobile
    nqobile says:

    Hollow im a university student at the and i have applied for NSFAS so my concern is that i didn’t get any response to be ensured that my application has been processed,there for now i am willing to ask as to when am i going to get the response for acceptance

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, Please ask at the financial aid office at the institute where you have been accepted for study.

      Reply
      • Cathrine
        Cathrine says:

        Hi Kath Morse, I am a studie trust beneficiary and the bursary that I got with the for 2016 is only a partial cover. I need to know abt their nsfas application progress, their means test and what else do they cover? And often when do they respond because their bursary is not going to cover me for everything. Your help will be much appreciated. Thank you in advance

        Reply
        • Kath Morse
          Kath Morse says:

          Hi, You should check your application at the financial office of your institution because you should have heard by now if you are successful or not. NSFAS can cover all of your study costs including accommodation and meals and transport etc however your application is means tested. If your family earns less than R120 000 you may receive partial funding. If your family earns nothing you may receive all your funding.

          Reply
      • katleho
        katleho says:

        Hi please help I’m studying medicine and i have applied on the 30th Nov 2016 but NSFAS still not answering my phone and the closing date is on the 1st Feb the admin office of my institution referred to NSFAS straight cause i have made it as self service

        Reply
        • Kath Morse
          Kath Morse says:

          Hi, It’s a bit hard to understand your message however contacting NSFAS seems to be the only way forward to you at this time. I know it is hard to get them to answer but you need to persist. Some people are getting through.

          Reply
  3. Tshepang
    Tshepang says:

    Hi am a student at Randfontein westcol campus I applied for NFSAS last semester and this semester for transportation but still I haven’t received the money and I submitted all my documents, at the college they even asked me to submit my bank statement. Please help me out or maybe give me the head office numbers so I can call and confirm everything with them

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, The financial office at your campus is responsible for your application, you need to go and see them. Each institute has its own budget from NSFAS. Go to the admin building and ask there.

      Reply
  4. khanyisa mthimkhulu
    khanyisa mthimkhulu says:

    Hy im from a tvet college there is a lot of us who applied for the bursary and non of us got anything while the post says we should expect the funding in april

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, It sounds like your TVET is having a problem. Have you asked at the financial aid office there? Just to clarify, I’m not from NSFAS. I got the information in the article by interviewing a staff member from NSFAS. I guess the reality is that the system doesn’t always work the way it’s supposed to. I hope you are able to get your TVET to sort it for you.

      Reply
      • mpilo mtshali
        mpilo mtshali says:

        good day i have problem receiving this xbux money and my parent are not working .i have try to go to checkers it declined .0720948634.

        Reply
  5. charles
    charles says:

    i want to apply for nsfas next year and aparently my biological father passed away.but the problem is that I don’t have his death certificate so I will like to know if nsfas cn fund me wthout a proof of my father’s death?

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, You can get a letter on letterhead from a social worker, school principal or pastor who knows your family well. They can testify that your father is not with your family and to the best of your knowledge he has passed away. Kath

      Reply
  6. VIWE
    VIWE says:

    Dear Sir or madam
    This year 2016 I am doing my final year in Bsc Environmental Sciences NSFAS covered up all my fees during the the course of the four years. Now I would like to know, because I have applied for MBchB Barchelor of Medicine and surgery to different universities which I am intending to pursue it just next year, 2017, I have applied for NSFAS to help me for the first year to cover up my registration mean while I am waiting for my bursary to take over. Will NSFAS take me?

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, My understanding is that NSFAS only cover your first undergraduate degree. You will need to look for funding elsewhere.

      Reply
      • Lesego
        Lesego says:

        Hi my name is Less go.. I applied for funding last year for my diploma; I discovered that I had to change my qualification if I want to do my higher certificate since is easier to get credited for a degree. If I change to a higher certificate will nsfas pay for my 4 modules that I need to register for in a higher certificate (the modules I have to do for my higher certificate are the same as those in have applied for this semester).

        Reply
  7. Vumile Mabaso
    Vumile Mabaso says:

    Hi, im a fomrer student at the durban university of technology. i still have an outstanding balance of R18 000, i graduated April 2014 till now i cannot get my diploma. will the NSFAS settle it? and when? Its hard applying for jobs without the qualification. Please help

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi Vumile, I don’t know what to say for you. This is a terrible situation. Unfortunately the university are allowed to do this even though it is really horrible. Have you been to their financial aid office and asked if there is anyone who can help you?

      Reply
  8. Jodine
    Jodine says:

    Hi there

    I applied for NSFAS in February this year, 2016, and only got an email last week to say I must come and sign my loan agreement so i did. In the email they attached a bank form, application for private accomodation and transport, which i filled in and submitted same time i signed. After i signed I received a pick ‘n pay voucher and intellicard to purchase stationary which was activated immediately. When is the actual loan going to reflect in my bank account? It has been a week already and I am still waiting. They also gave me a receipt showing how much I will get.

    Reply
  9. happiness
    happiness says:

    hi I dd my n4 last 5 months now I’m gng for n5 on July ….I have applied for nfsas on January. march thy told us how much will get.till June I didn’t get the money I haved asked at financial office thy said will get the money BT till now I didn’t get money . and next month I’m starting n5…situation like that wht must I do?

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Keep going back to your financial aid office. Don’t give up. Make sure they know your name and face and you know all of them by name. That way if any money comes in, they will think of you.

      Reply
        • Shereen Maholobela
          Shereen Maholobela says:

          Hi kath, does the loan paid to me return back automatically to Nsfas if I did nit use it? And if so why has it not reflected on my nsfas loan balance? The institution told me they sent the money back to Nsfas but Nsfas says they never received the money, why is that

          Reply
          • Kath Morse
            Kath Morse says:

            Hi Shereen,

            That is what is supposed to happen. I suggest you go to the financial office at your institute and ask them for proof of payment. You can then give that to NSFAS.

            All the best, Kath

  10. Liberty shackson
    Liberty shackson says:

    Is it possible for a student to use both bursary and NSFAS at the same time? Please help!

    Reply
  11. lebogang maria
    lebogang maria says:

    dear sir or maam

    i had recieved an email instructing me i should dail the number *134*176# to register for sbux. But when i do that it says i should enter a password which i do not know can you please advice where i should get the password

    Reply
      • Gaolatlhe
        Gaolatlhe says:

        My Sbux vouchers just disappeared. And there’s this say that I should pay back the money but I’m in my third level never got the remaining balance. That I will be paying back after my Degree. Maybe there’s someone who is busy eating out money . They always take my money last time they took my study material Sbux vouchers and now they took it again. If I have to payback the money give me a job! will start to pay and I gave a qualification that is useless and you paid for it.

        Reply
  12. Precious Ngcobo
    Precious Ngcobo says:

    Hi

    I registered at Unisa for the 2nd semester,I had applied for Nsfas last year but I did not get the funding due to insufficient funds.Anyway last week I received an sms stating that my registration has been finalized but I had not made any payment.When I go into my Unisa profile it shows that Nsfas paid the registration fee.I have not signed any documents n I called Nsfas today and I spoke to a guy that told me that my application for Nsfas was not approved.

    I had made the Nsfas application at the Unisa campus.

    What step should I take next?

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      I suggest you contact the financial office at UNISA. Sometimes they have NSFAS funding that becomes available because a student drops out. If you were still on their wait list then they may have allocated it to you. Obviously there should have been paperwork etc.

      Reply
  13. Salim Mkumla
    Salim Mkumla says:

    Hey I applied for NSFAS second semester 2016 on 15 June 2016. It replied with NSFAS is processing my application. It has been a month now and I have not yet received any response, I am very worried. Please help.

    Reply
        • Kath Morse
          Kath Morse says:

          It means you are eligible for funding. It might also mean that they have run out of funding for now but are waiting to see if others who have been successful might not take up the opportunity so that they can then give them money to you. This is just a guess though. Best thing to do would be to phone NSFAS and ask them.

          Reply
        • Joy Manka
          Joy Manka says:

          Hy
          am provisionally registered student at UFS.I got an sms from NSFAS saying am provisionally pending registration at a public university/College for this current registration period.Ref no******Can you please clarify it for me what should i do from now on

          Reply
          • Kath Morse
            Kath Morse says:

            Let your financial office at UFS know that you have NSFAS funding. They should then notify NSFAS of your registration. NSFAS will then prepare a loan contract for you to sign.

  14. Glender
    Glender says:

    Hi
    Im a 3rd year student At a college early this year igot my fanancial statement for the past 2yrs and it said the school owes me R14400 for those two years for accomodation fee so my worry is if they don’t give me that money will i still have to pay nsfas the whole amount although i didn’t recieve it?and how do i see how much i owe nsfas?

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Usually if you have overpaid you can request the financial department to reimburse you into your bank account. If it is NSFAS that overpaid the financial department can pay the money back to NSFAS and this should not show up on your loan. I’m not sure how to find out what you owe but you can request a call back from their website: http://www.nsfas.org.za/content/loanrepayments.html

      Reply
  15. Kingdom
    Kingdom says:

    Hi nsfas sent me a message saying that I must go to rectify my loan agreement to the nsfas office and they said that I will be liable for my own tuition account. They sent me this message on the 29th of June saying I must rectify my loan on the 30th and that was not possible because it was during my recess and I was at home. Now my red called and said that my card for paying rent isn’t working. Did they cancel my contract? Please help

    Reply
  16. sandra
    sandra says:

    hi,

    I have a brother who is currently doing his first year at UKZN, the problem is my parents can’t afford his 2016 fees and he is currently owing, he can’t get his 1st semester results, as he needs those results to apply for NSFAS. My question is it possible for NSFAS to pay his 2016 fees?

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, As you’ve noted, your brother needs the results to apply to NSFAS. They are very particular about application paperwork. I don’t think there is any easy answer for this. They will need to raise the money so that he can get his results and apply for NSFAS for next year. He should also apply for other bursaries. Bursaries are listed at bursaries-southafrica.co.za

      Reply
  17. Precious
    Precious says:

    Hi,I applied for Nsfas early this year and I drop out on February,should I be worried that they will not fund me next year because I applied and drop out

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, Sorry about the delay in replying. I had to check this one out for you. You can reapply, even if you dropped out. 🙂

      Reply
  18. Mbongeni
    Mbongeni says:

    What if i dnt hv parrents and i live alone bt i’ve tryin’ to study by my self from N1 to N4 ,will i get Bursary n Nsfas if i submit affidavit saying all my parents are dead and i hv nothing of them,ID,matric, previous tertiary results ?

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      You will need their death certificates or a letter from a social worker, school principal or pastor who knows your situation well and can testify for you. The letter needs to be on letterhead with an address and phone number. You can also do the affidavit.

      Reply
  19. Chresia
    Chresia says:

    Hi my name is chresia i have passed my grade12 last year with high certificate , i wanna do nursing but my parents are unemloyed plz help nsfas

    Reply
  20. Sphilile Hadebe
    Sphilile Hadebe says:

    Hi my name is Sphilile I applied at wsu unitra and they accepted my request, my name was there on the wall of the accepted people but the only thing NSFAS didn’t reply to my request they asked for R5000 for registration which I didn’t have, so I want to know if should I reapply or what because I already had student number

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, You need to go to the financial office at WZU and ask. If your application to NSFAS is approved then some institutes will let you pay registration late, when the money comes in.

      Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Yes you can change college. Make sure you note it on your application for next year. Applications are open now.

      Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Yes it is allowed. Just make sure you note the change of institute on your NSFAS application. Applications are open now.

      Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, You should write an affidavit to say you don’t know your father and then you also need to get someone of authority to agree that this is the case. If your father is not on your birth certificate then providing that should help. You can also get a letter on letter head from a social worker, school principal or pastor of a church that you are actively attending. The letter should state that the person knows your family, how long they have known your family and that your father is not known to you and does not pay any support.

      Reply
  21. zine
    zine says:

    hi there
    I’m a final year student paying with nsfas. But this year it’s surprising bcoz the funding hasn’t paid for 2016 up until now and my concern is that I can’t even get my Traveling allowance up until the loan pays. Would like to know when does the funding actually pays for this year

    Reply
      • Bohlale M Peace
        Bohlale M Peace says:

        Hi,i received an sms from NSFAS saying that i am provisionally funded they even paid for my registration fee.Can you please assist me on what to do next to be able to sign loan agreement or any forms to proceed tution fee,accomodation etc.
        I will really appreciate your help

        Reply
          • KGOTSOFALO
            KGOTSOFALO says:

            my status is saying that im provisionally funded,but i havent got any agreement. i am confused now because i did not make it to register at unisa,but nsfas has approved, what can i do to win this issue? is there any possibilties that can stand in a chance to register?

          • Kath Morse
            Kath Morse says:

            You can only get the funding if you register. Phone or email UNISA and ask if they will accept a late registration. After you are registered you will get the funding contract.

          • KGOTSOFALO
            KGOTSOFALO says:

            Since today at unisa they accept the final payment for registration, actually i am confused cause i dont know whether is my duty to register or Nsfas cause my status says i am provisionally funded, and today is the final date for registration. i actualy dont know what to do next,,please help

          • Kath Morse
            Kath Morse says:

            “Provisionally” means on the condition that you are accepted at tertiary and on the condition that you register, you will get the NSFAS funding. GO AND REGISTER!!!

          • KGOTSOFALO
            KGOTSOFALO says:

            Then this means i should contact the nsfas for a proof so that unisa can allow me to register.

        • KGOTSOFALO
          KGOTSOFALO says:

          But then do i have to register with my money or UNISA will automatically deduct it from nsfas? because at the moment we dont have a cent at home.

          Reply
          • Kath Morse
            Kath Morse says:

            Most institutes are being generous in allowing you to register without paying as long as you have proof that NSFAS is going to fund your studies. You will need to ask UNISA about this though.

  22. chanelle
    chanelle says:

    Hi I have been funded with Nsfas for 2016.but my fee have not yet been paid,because I have not signed my loan agreement form.I went go my financial office at my university. They told me I need to wait for Nsfas to send me an SMS to sign it otherwise they cannont give me the forms.but everyone has signed it.and the year is almost over.I am worried I need to sign my forms.what must I do? Please help?

    Reply
  23. Siphosenkosi
    Siphosenkosi says:

    Hi, I’m a first year student at mangosuthu university of technology.I applied for nsfas last year november for 2016
    they gave me reference number and password not funded, I would like to know that I have to withdraw my application and reapply for 2017

    Reply
  24. keaobaka
    keaobaka says:

    Hi,I am ncv student at tvet college,nsfas had paid my school tutorials and accommodation fees,but I am struggling to get refund form,I had seek for advice in our student support but I don’t get exact response,so I am inquire for valid protocols to follow in order to have my fees deposited into account/cash?and how long will I get it after form submition?

    Reply
  25. Bongani
    Bongani says:

    I applied for nsfas funding in 2015 I did not get it when I asked they said they are still waiting and I should apply for 2016 for 2016 I got the funding what about 2015 is there money still gonna come or should I just forget about it?

    Reply
  26. Zinhle Cele
    Zinhle Cele says:

    hey nsfas Im Zinhle from Durban at Craigieburn.I completed matric last yr and I passed with a Diploma.Now I want to apply nsfas but the problem is I read some comments of other studients and I’m worry that maybe my application will not be Successfully.I’m an orphan since 1999 and I don’t know my father I raised with the family that were not my blood so even I’m staying with them,they don’t even help me with my application so that why I’m panicking.if I apply for nsfas mayb Thursday its will be late???so its can make my application decline or???plz help me!!!

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi Zinhle, First to clear up, this is not NSFAS. If you want to contact NSFAS phone their help desk: 0860 067 327 My understanding is that you will need supporting documents to verify your family situation. This could be death certificates, your unabridged birth certificate (if it doens’t list your father then he is unknown), a letter from a social worker or your pastor or your school principal on letterhead, an affidavit explaining the situation. You are not late. NSFAS applications are still open. Kath

      Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Yes. You must apply before the end of November even though you haven’t heard about acceptance for your course yet.

      Reply
  27. Lerato
    Lerato says:

    Hi, I don’t have both parents or a guardian. My dad died and left me in the house, iv been living alone ever since but I want to study. Will I be able to get nsfas? I never knew my mother.

    Please assist.

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, Yes you can get NSFAS but you need to provide proof of your situation. For your dad – his death certificate is needed. If your birth certificate does not list your mom then you can provide that as proof that you never knew her. You must get a letter from your principal, pastor or social worker on letter head stating your situation. You can also do an affidavit at the police station. If you have any queries phone the NSFAS help line: 0860 067 327

      Reply
  28. Zakiyyah
    Zakiyyah says:

    Hi

    I applied for nsfas in 2015 for 2016 but did not receive funding, so I managed to make up enough money to pay for my fees (which was really difficult), but I still owed R8100. In August 2016, I received an email regarding a loan agreement so I signed the loan agreement form at the financial aid office. Everything went well and nsfas paid all my fees for the year, leaving my account in surplus. The surplus gave peace of mind knowing that my registration for 2017 would be covered ( I am doing Bcom Accounting so registration has to be paid up before classes start in February, & the first payment needs to be paid towards fees is in March/April ). When I checked my account today, I saw that nsfas had withdrawn the whole surplus so now so I am worried about this.. Will nsfas pay for my fees next year? And will they be able to cover my registration on time? My course is very big so paying registration promptly is very important. Why would they withdraw the surplus instead of leaving it for 2017? Because I signed the Loan Agreement saying that they would cover my fees for 2016. Please help 🙁

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, This is normal. If money is left in your fee account at the end of the year, NSFAS do take it back. You need to reapply for next year. Applications are online and open until the end of November. You can also phone the help line if you are not sure where you stand: 0860 067 327

      Reply
  29. matimba
    matimba says:

    Hi..i applied bursary for this seconds semester at vhembe college around july..since from that time i didnt get any message or email to know that if am accepted or not…help me

    Reply
  30. NOMKHOHLANE
    NOMKHOHLANE says:

    Hi
    I’m nomkhohlane I’m in a process of applying for NSFAS I wil officially apply on the 19 cz dey need scanned documents bt I’m bcmng wrrd of wen wil dey rply bt he I dnt hv any prblms I hv already applied at UFS n mi app was considered so dey wil nid mi NSC results nxt yer bt strs free cz I’m sure I did we’ll in mi exms I jst wish thngs go we’ll 4 m in JESUS NAME

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, Phone them and ask when they will reply. Their number is on their website and also on this blog page.

      Reply
  31. Itumeleng
    Itumeleng says:

    Hi, I want to know if NSFAS can change their funding to another university other than the one specified in the online application should it happen that they are eligible for funding. I am asking this because I really doubt that one would be able to send multiple applications to NSFAS as they do to various institutions so as to accompany each application for admission to that university should they get accepted. My doubtfulness is due to the ID number as it already would be existing in the system so it would automatically decline it, haven’t tried it but I would really like to know if my suspicions are true.
    Thanks 🙂

    Reply
  32. Kateko
    Kateko says:

    hi..I’m a first year student at TUT, I applied for NSFAS early February 2015… i think my application was not complete because I just completed my grade 12 last year 2015 so I was illiterate about how to apply for NSFAS.. i paid for my registration at TUT then continued studying hoping that NSFAS will respond…then they didn’t respond… I applied for NSFAS thoroughly again by August… so my question is will NSFAS pay my outstanding fees if they approve my application? because there’s no one who can pay my fees at home.. both my parents a unemployed..

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, NSFAS will not pay back fees from the course you already did. Also, if you don’t pass this year (from not paying fees) then they won’t pay for next year either. It is one of the big problems people have been protesting about with “fees must fall”. Best idea would be to phone them and talk to them about it. They have a help line.

      Reply
  33. nokulunga
    nokulunga says:

    hi I’m Nokulunga dut student..I received an SMS that I should sign the loan agreement my problem is that I’ve changed my number so I can’t get the once-off pin so I don’t know what is gonna happen please help..m so stressed

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Phone NSFAS today as applications close today. If your application is incomplete, it will not be processed: 0860 067 327

      Reply
  34. Mojela
    Mojela says:

    Hi i applied for nsfas on the 1st of August 2016 and so my problem is I haven’t receive any SMS from nsfas stating whether the received my application normally how long does it takes to get a respond from nsfas whether you will be granted the funding or not
    Best Regards

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, This year is a new process for NSFAS and I’m not sure how it will work out. Best to phone them and ask. Their number is on this blot or on their website.

      Reply
  35. Lebogang
    Lebogang says:

    Hi I’ve applied nsfas online and submitted my application on the 14th of November 2016. They haven’t responded, how long does it take for them to respond??

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, I don’t know because this year is the first time they’ve done centralised applications online. I suggest you phone them and ask. Tel No.: 0860 067 327 Email: info@nsfas.org.za

      Reply
  36. James
    James says:

    Hi I have been funded
    with Nsfas for
    2016, but my fee have
    not yet been
    paid. I have signed the aggreement contract. Plz Help!

    Reply
  37. Brenda
    Brenda says:

    Hy my name is Joyce i was doing level 3 2016,nd i stil want to go one with my studies,my problm is tht i dnt have money to pay my accomodation every month o dnt knw whn wll the NSFAS pay for 2017 im warried couz i dnt have any money to pay my accomodation nd they want it every month,so i dnt knw wht to do couz i got NSFAF money on December woul like if it pay every month plz help

    Reply
  38. noma africa
    noma africa says:

    hai am noma-Africa I applied fr funding before end of November as I check on my online application on nsafs it says waiting for evaluation plz help is tht a good sign tht I will be funded or no

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Their website says: “We are currently processing all received applications and application results will be communicated via SMS or
      email at a time to be announced.”

      Reply
  39. Sam
    Sam says:

    Hi I was funded by NSFAS in 2014 but I dropped out of the institution where I was enrolled, this year I applied to a different institution and I have been accepted .. do I have to reapply for NSFAS ? and if so what are my chances of getting funding for 2017 ?

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, You do have to reapply to NSFAS every year. Applications are now completed online. They are now closed for 2017.

      Reply
  40. Vanessa
    Vanessa says:

    Hi!I am Vanessa I was doing grade 12 this year which is 2016 I will be doing the 1st year and haven’t got my results I have applied for the NSFAS since August and I haven’t heard anything from them should I be worried?

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, NSFAS have changed their application process and I’m not sure how it is supposed to work out now that you apply directly. I suggest you phone them and ask. Tel No.: 0860 067 327 Email: info@nsfas.org.za

      Reply
  41. Sibongakonke Thabede
    Sibongakonke Thabede says:

    Hi madam
    I am Bonga.I have applied for NSFAS, so I would like to know how will I know if my application has been successful.

    Reply
  42. Nomthandazo Ngcobo
    Nomthandazo Ngcobo says:

    Hi I want to study at johhanesburg but I haven’t applied for Nada’s us it still possible to apply

    Reply
  43. Nthabiseng
    Nthabiseng says:

    Hi, nsfas was funding me in 2016 and my fees are still not paid and I passed all my subjects with distinctions. Pls help, I’m supposed to start practicals soon but I don’t know what to do

    Reply
  44. zama
    zama says:

    Hi I was doing my first year in 2016 I applied for nsfas in the 2nd semester and I got it in the trust fund I want to know if they will continue to pay for my registration and and tertiary fees this year?

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, You need to reapply for NSFAS every year. They are open now until 20th Jan for online applications.

      Reply
  45. phionah
    phionah says:

    thank you so much @Kath morse for helping our people,may the good Lord continue to bless you and your family,.your so kind hearted???????????????????????

    Reply
  46. Donald Mathabela
    Donald Mathabela says:

    I am approved by Nsfas on 2016 and I signed the contract but they haven’t paid my fees yet, I am worried if they don’t pay soon I won’t be able to register

    Reply
      • zoleka
        zoleka says:

        I want to ask get I get nsfas bursary for second semester am new applicant can they pay my fees cause I live with single parent she is not working she z selling food

        Reply
        • Kath Morse
          Kath Morse says:

          Hi, As far as I am aware, NSFAS is not planning to open for second semester applications. You would need to phone them directly though to confirm this. Kath

          Reply
  47. kagisho manaswe
    kagisho manaswe says:

    Hello
    I was doing my first year last year 2016 at tut and I dropped out due to lack of fund and couldn’t terminate my contract with tut now I have outstanding fee of 14000 to pay before I can register this year
    can nsfas fund me for my ououtstanding fees and my academic year fees??

    Reply
  48. Khutjo
    Khutjo says:

    Hi,I have signed the nsfas loan agreement for 2016 but my outstanding balance for 2016 has not been paid to the university of Limpopo,so I did not get my results…I am worried

    Reply
  49. Mthobisi Mahlaba
    Mthobisi Mahlaba says:

    Hello i complete studying and in my history enrolment form show me an outstanding balance what should i do?

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Many institutes will not release your results unless you settle the balance. If you thinks someone else should have settled for you (a bursar or NSFAS loan), you need to contact them urgently.

      Reply
  50. Norma
    Norma says:

    Hi, my son has applied for an NC(V) course for 2017. We want to apply for NSFAS funding, as we won’t be able to afford the tuition otherwise. I am worried that the means test won’t qualify us, as our combined salary before deductions might be more than the maximum salary range. Do we stand any chance to get funding? Does the means test take into account income versus expenses?

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, The means test does not take into account expenses and there is no chance of getting the NSFAS LOAN if your income is over the R120 000 limit. However the NC(V) is funded by NSFAS BURSARY (not loan) and this has different requirements to the loan pool. You should still apply.

      Reply
  51. sarah
    sarah says:

    hi, i applied for nsfas last year 2016. so i was wondering to know about my application status of whether i do qualify or not, because my registration date is around the corner.. please help me um worried!!!

    Reply
  52. vusi
    vusi says:

    hi…I would like to know does NSFAS cover registration fee?and if it doesn’t what happens with my university application

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      You will need to pay for registration yourself. If you have the NSFAS sttatus “provisionally funded” and you can’t pay, go to the financial office at your tertiary institute. Ask if they will allow you to register without payment until your NSFAS money comes through. Most institutes will do this if you have a “provisionally funded” status because they know that they will definitely get the money later.

      Reply
  53. Zamakhosi Xaba
    Zamakhosi Xaba says:

    Hi I tried applying for NSFAS on the 29th of November and also on the 30th November 2016 but the the system was too slow I couldn’t finish. After the application was closed, I continued with my application but it was not done, some documents weren’t uploaded. On Monday the 9th of January 2017 I received an email saying that NSFAS has received my application. I tried to login on my accound it says my application is submitted but I know very well that it is incomplete. What should I do?

    Reply
  54. Prince Mohale
    Prince Mohale says:

    Hi there!

    I got an SMS from Nsfas yesterday
    saying “You are provisionally funded
    pending registration at TUT. Nsfas will notify you once your loarn Agreement is created.

    all I want to know is are they refering to my registration fees of what …can u please explain this to me??

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      If you register at TUT then NSFAS will fund you. They are waiting until you act upon the study offer before they give you money. If you need money to register at TUT then you will may have to pay for it yourself. If you can’t pay, go to the financial office at TUT and ask if they will allow you to register without payment until your NSFAS money comes through. Most institutes will do this if you have a “provisionally funded” status because they know that they will definitely get the money later.

      Reply
  55. Nelile
    Nelile says:

    Hi I signed the loan of agreement, but Nsfas didn’t payed yet. I called them, they told me that they payed , but when I checked my statement account it didn’t showed. Please help me what I need to do in this situation

    Reply
  56. Ofentse K.J
    Ofentse K.J says:

    Hi
    I received this sms” You are provisionally funded pending registration at TUT. NSFAS will notify you once your Loan agreement is created. T&C apply.”
    Does this mean my application is approved and if so when will i get Loan agreement forms?

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Yes you are funded as long as you register at TUT. You will get your loan agreement after you have completed registration. If you go to the website you will find a self-service page where you can see details about the status of your application.

      Reply
  57. Prince Mohale
    Prince Mohale says:

    Hey Kath

    its me again….I’ve paid my registration fee of R1500 but haven’t paid R1200 yet for Residence ….can nsfas pay it on my behalf??
    because right now I don’t have it

    thnx for the prev response Kath.

    Reply
  58. nhleko ntokozo
    nhleko ntokozo says:

    Hi,what things does the nsfas cover for a student,I am asking this question becouse I have no parents so I want to apply for nsfas,so I want to know how does nsfas going to help me

    Reply
  59. thobeka
    thobeka says:

    hy I applied last and the only response I got from Nsfas is that they are processing my documents n that they will b reopening and they sent it via email nt sms..I am also nt sure if I should send my matric result when I try to call it says the call is unoptanable…pls help

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Go to the self service page on the website and see if they are requesting additional documents.

      Reply
        • Kath Morse
          Kath Morse says:

          If they have processed your paperwork then you should be able to see that online. If you can’t see anything then they didn’t process it. It’s not too late to reapply though. They are still open for applications until tomorrow.

          Reply
  60. Tshiamo Gaethijwe
    Tshiamo Gaethijwe says:

    Hi,i have applied for nsfas last year october but i haven’t receive SMS stating whether my application was approved.

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Have you been on the website and gone to the self-service page? You should be able to see from there. Otherwise phone NSFAS

      Reply
  61. Mmashadi
    Mmashadi says:

    Hi, mi application status says “awaiting availability of funds” what does this mean? Please help, I have tried to contact nsfas but they don’t answer at my university they don’t know also, I am starting to panic because I am supposed to register on Wednesday ,BT now I don’t have money

    Reply
  62. Khaya
    Khaya says:

    Hi my brother applied for nsfas and got an offer at ukzn so we don’t have money to register what should we do and nsfas status still said academic eligibility evaluated

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Ask UKZN if they will allow you to defer payment until the NSFAS money comes through. Many institutes will do this as long as they can see that NSFAS have approved funding.

      Reply
  63. maite
    maite says:

    hi am currently doing ncv at a college I want to know
    does nsfas cover for accommodation only when you have passed 7 subjects?

    Reply
  64. Asnath
    Asnath says:

    Hi,I received an SMS stating that i am provisionally funded pending registration at Tut and Nsfas will notice me once the loan agreement contract is created does this mean I they will fund me what should I do next.

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Yes that means they will fund you. You should register then they will send you the loan agreement. If you can’t afford or borrow the registration fee you can ask at TUT if you can pay once NSFAS funding comes in.

      Reply
      • kea
        kea says:

        I got the same message so I went and registered yesterday but now my status says ‘awaiting availability of funds’ and it is creeping me out, please help

        Reply
        • Kath Morse
          Kath Morse says:

          I am trying to find out about this. I contacted NSFAS directly, they told me to send an email. They didn’t reply. I’ve contacted a journalist this morning. Hopefully we a can all get answer soon.

          Reply
  65. lillian
    lillian says:

    Hi please help me, I applied via email on the 30 of November and there is no response from now, I’m studying with Unisa and I’m from a very poor back ground, registrations are closing on the 27th January, I’m dropping out each year and I can’t find any employment, my contact no is 083 7110 716, student no 48203815, I can’t sleep at night thinking about my future but I can’t give up, please help and thank you in advance!.

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, Please contact NSFAS. Keep phoning and sending emails until they reply. You can also go online and check on the website via their self-service page and see where your application is up to.

      Reply
  66. mamello
    mamello says:

    I want to know what I must do if I want NSFAS to change their funding to another university I’m admitted at?

    Reply
  67. pontsho
    pontsho says:

    I want to know if my NSFAS application wasn’t successful…can I reapply again if I have a reference number

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      If you are a returning student NSFAS will refund you as long as you meet academic standards -“eligible”. They check your results with your institute -“evaluation”. Their website says that you must have passed 50% of your subjects to be refunded.

      Reply
  68. Khutjo
    Khutjo says:

    Hi I did my first year of BSc(life sciences) in 2016 at the University of Limpopo,and I was funded by nsfas,but now I applied and got admitted to first year in BEng(mechatronics) for the academic year 2017 at the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University.I want to know if nsfas is still going to fund me or not.

    Reply
  69. Vukona Rikhotso
    Vukona Rikhotso says:

    My NSFAS application was approved for the university that I was not accepted on. I got accepted at University Of Venda but my NSFAS application was approved at Vaal University. What do I do now?

    Reply
  70. Vukona Rikhotso
    Vukona Rikhotso says:

    My NSFAS application was approved for the university that I was not accepted on. I got accepted at University Of Venda but my NSFAS application was approved at Vaal University. What do I do now?

    Reply
  71. Zinhle
    Zinhle says:

    Hi I am registered at unisa and was funded in 2016, so I got a message on Tuesday that I was approved but my registration is yet finalised. ..should I be worried or wait a little longer

    Reply
  72. SIHLE TOGETHER SANELISIWE
    SIHLE TOGETHER SANELISIWE says:

    Hi last year I was in level 3 at barberton college I was funded by nsfas I want to know if nsfas will continue funding me this year because I’m doing my last year

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Their website says that if you passed more than 50% of your course then you are automatically refunded.

      Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, The NSFAS website says that you do not need to reapply if you have been previously funded. You must have passed 50% of your subjects though and they check with your institute.

      Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Take your letter of approval along to registration. My understanding is that you can register and then then UP send a registration template to NSFAS, NSFAS prepare your contract, you sign, they send the money to UP.

      Reply
  73. Asnath
    Asnath says:

    Hi i I got SMS stating I am provisionally funded at tut the thing is that I did not get space at Tut they said I should apply for second semester will they fund me even at second semester please help

    Reply
  74. Teballo
    Teballo says:

    Hi i got an sms stating my student number saying “you are provisionally funded for nsfas pending on your registration at TUT but my application at tut is not yet accepted please help.

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, You can accept an offer from any tertiary institute and go and register. Your funding will follow you. Make sure you take the letter along to registration. If you don’t have any tertiary offers then you won’t be funded.

      Reply
  75. Noxie
    Noxie says:

    I checked my Nsfas status it says provisionally funded and I don’t know the meaning of this .Nsfas also sent me an email saying conditionally approved please help i dont understand

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      It means that as long as you are accepted to study and you go to register, you will be funded. When you register, take your NSFAS letter with you. They will then send a registration template to NSFAS and NSFAS will prepare a contract for you to sign.

      Reply
      • Cindy Zungu
        Cindy Zungu says:

        Hi Kath

        i have paid my registration fee and received an email from NSFAS to say I am provisionall approved pending registration. Do I need to take this email to the finance department or will NSFAS obtain this from the university?

        Regards
        Cindy

        Reply
        • Kath Morse
          Kath Morse says:

          Take your email to the finance department. I am not really sure how the process is going to work.

          Reply
  76. Malose Klaas
    Malose Klaas says:

    hellow, currently I am studying my first year in assistance of NSFAS ans I have decided to change course next year so don’t know if NSFAS will still cover me or what, thats where i am confused.

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Best thing is to phone them. My understanding is that if you passed 50% of your subjects you will be refunded.

      Reply
  77. Nkosinathi
    Nkosinathi says:

    Hi I got an email from NSFAS saying that I am provisional funded pending from my registration and I did register at university of Zululand.I want to know that in order for me to be funded I need to show this message to the varsity or they will automatically know thank you

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, The process is supposed to be that when you register, Zululand must send registration template to NSFAS, then NSFAS open a contract, you sign, then NSFAS pay money to Zululand and you. So, if you didn’t tell Zululand that you were NSFAS funded, I think you need to.

      Reply
      • nokuzola mkhize
        nokuzola mkhize says:

        Hi i’m a sstudent at Mangosuthu unniversity of technology the classes have started actually it been two weeks but ihavent started to attend due to nsfas idont have an accomodation iwent back home because they want a deposit of 4000 at school but icant afford it because im unemployed and no one is working at home since im an orphan ijust need your help atleast get a place to stay already im left behind please help me please ihave spoken to the social workers even at school they know about my situation everytime when I check my nsfas status it says waiting for availability of funds at times it says tap for application please idont know what to do anymore ihave tried asking for help but my voice is not heard please make me a better person

        Reply
  78. Peko
    Peko says:

    Hi ,I’m accepted at nwu for first year and my nsfas application was unsuccessful due to my academic results. .so I want to know if I can register with my own money and make apeal will nsfas fund me , because both of my parents are not working..when should I make apeal?

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, This is the way I understand it. When you go to register at UP, you take along your letter from NSFSA. UP should then send a confirmation of registration to NSFAS. NSFAS will send you the contract to sign and then they will pay UP for your registration.

      Reply
  79. Koena
    Koena says:

    Hi, I’ve registered at UJ two weeks ago but my NSFAS status is still ‘Provisionally funded’. Also I want NSFAS to cover my accomodation on NSFAS accredited off campus student accomodation and meals only. What should I do?

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Did you inform UJ when you registered that you were NSFAS funded? They need to send a registration template to NSFAS after which your contract will be generated.

      Reply
  80. Peko
    Peko says:

    Hi Kath. .can u please tell me ist true when you are more than 28 yrs ,you don’t qualify to apply for nsfas

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      This is not true. You can apply at any age for your first undergraduate studies (certificate, diploma or bachelor) or to upgrade undergraduate studies (eg: from diploma to bachelor).

      Reply
  81. Khutjo
    Khutjo says:

    I applied to nsfas last year and this January on the 20th but nsfas has not responded me yet and the registration closing day at nmmu for my course is Wednesday,I’m so confused.I tried to ask the institution to let me apply but they refused,should I apply for a study loan?

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      You can go and register. NSFAS have spoken to all institutes to say that they must accept registration if you have applied to NSFAS pending the NSFAS final decision which will be on Friday. Don’t miss your registration.

      Reply
  82. Kelly
    Kelly says:

    Good day

    I have applied and been provisionally approved by NSFAS. I don’t have money to register at Unisa.

    Please assist me the steps to take, registration closes Friday.

    Thank You.

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, My understanding is that you can register without paying as long as you have the NSFAS letter stating that you are funded. UNISA then sends a registration template to NSFAS and NSFAS prepare a contract for you. After you have signed, they will pay UNISA. I suggest you phone or email UNISA and check that this is correct – or go into their nearest office. My experience with UNISA is that they do reply to emails reasonably promptly.

      Reply
  83. Khutjo
    Khutjo says:

    I have called and emailed to nsfas countless times and still there is no answer,can you please give me a specific number/email address that I can contact?I have also missed my registration because I have no application or admission status on my nsfas account.Please help me.

    Reply
  84. precious
    precious says:

    hi
    I applied for NSFAS this year , but the form said I must only submit my ID copy and copy of my statement .
    but i sent the affidavit only yesterday . I want to know if NSFAS will still respond ?

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Supporting documents are still being accepted: Supporting documents must be emailed to: apply@nsfas.org.za or faxed to: 086 644 2822. Remember to clearly write your ID number on the top right corner of each page.

      Reply
  85. Candy
    Candy says:

    Hi I have applied for Nsfas last year and I am supposed to be doing my second year, my status says academic eligibility evaluated ,should I be worried and if ever I am approved will they pay my fees for last year?? Please help

    Reply
  86. Selina
    Selina says:

    Hi, I am a first entering student at the university of Limpopo. last year I applied for NSFAS and on the application, I indicated that I’ll be going to the university of Johannesburg. On the 10th of January I got an email from NSFAS saying I’m provisionally funded. Later on that week I got an SMS from university of Johannesburg telling me that my NSFAS application has been approved. I went to the university of Limpopo’s financial aid office and explained this phenomenon to them and they said I should send them an email telling NSFAS that I am at university of Limpopo. I did send the email and I’m now scared because I didn’t get any response back.What should I do

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      In a recent press release NSFAS said that if you register at an institute that is different from the one they funded you for, the funding will follow you. Just make sure that they know.

      Reply
  87. Maphala
    Maphala says:

    Greetings, I received an email saying I am provisonally approved for funding pending registration, do I have to register myself first, and they will take over after?

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Yes, you need to register. Tell your institute you are NSFAS funded. They then notify NSFAS that you have registered. NSFAS will prepare your contract. You will sign and then the money will come in.

      Reply
  88. bryan Mathews
    bryan Mathews says:

    Hey I’m my name is Bryan and I got provisionally funded by nsfas but I haven’t got a university or tvet to study
    I was wondering what would happen to my application if I am to be disable to study this year

    Reply
  89. agreement
    agreement says:

    hi I’m a returning student I have applied nsfas last year around September but my application status is still saying awaiting evaluation escalation

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      I know they are having trouble processing applications. You can phone them or you can wait patiently. You can also speak to your institute. Most institutes understand the difficult position NSFAS applicants are in.

      Reply
  90. Thato Mokoena
    Thato Mokoena says:

    Hi Kath, last year I was studying IT at TVET college. I applied and got NSFAS last year but I dropped out because of family matters. Am I going to get NSFAS again this year?

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, If you withdrew from your studies properly then you may be refunded however if you dropped out and it registered on your record as fails then you will not be refunded. Best to phone NSFAS and ask.

      Reply
  91. nomusa makhubo
    nomusa makhubo says:

    hi…I’m a student in Gert sibande college doing level 3 office adminstration this year…this is my second year…last year I was doing my first year so bursary paid for me last year….so the problem this year is that my both parents are the money that exceed the bursary loan limit….so what must I do????????????

    Reply
  92. Phendukani
    Phendukani says:

    Hy,I’m studying at UNISA and fail to pay the balance last semester, then I applied for NSFAS, now the status says financial agibility evaluation, what does that mean,are they going to fund my registration fees and balance due to UNISA.?

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, It means you are approved for costs for this year (including registration). NSFAS do not pay debts.

      Reply
  93. Victor
    Victor says:

    Hi
    Iv applied for nsfas last yr nov and again this year January and i ddnt get any respond from them.and is my frist year at UL. Please help me what to do cos im stressed and my parent doesnt have money to pay for my fees.

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, I know it is frustrating but you have to keep trying to phone or email NSFAS. You can also speak to UL. They know that there are huge problems with the new NSFAS system and most universities are being helpful and kind to students who are waiting to hear.

      Reply
  94. Nhlakanipho Mhlongo
    Nhlakanipho Mhlongo says:

    Hi I applied for nsfas last year then I reseived an email stating that im provisionally funded.what does this mean?

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      It means that as long as you are accepted at a tertiary institute and go to register, you will get the funding.

      Reply
  95. Lebohang
    Lebohang says:

    Hi, I received an email saying I’m provisionally funded on the 12th of this month now my problem is I did not show the letter to the institution but my status still says provisionally funded, will it work tomorrow when I show them? if so when will I get the food allowance?? thank you..

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      You need to let your institute know that you have NSFAS funding. They are supposed to notify NSFAS that you have registered so that a contract can be drawn up. You will need to sign the contract and then you get funding.

      Reply
  96. Nhlakanipho Mhlongo
    Nhlakanipho Mhlongo says:

    When I went to UFS and try to giste by NSFAS, they said that im not funded yet as my NSFAS status states that im provisionally funded, they said I must wait for sms from NSFAS which will verify that im funded. So how long will it take to get that sms?

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, I know this is all very confusing but you have been incorrectly advised by UFS. Your funding is provisional upon them offering you a place and you registering. Once you are registered NSFAS will offer you a funding contract. Go back and speak to someone else.

      Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Financial Aid offices are at the tertiary institutes. They used to manage the NSFAS application process but now you have to deal directly with NSFAS. It’s possible some of this blog content is out of date.

      Reply
  97. bradly
    bradly says:

    hi I feeling stressed, I had apply for nsfas but my application so waiting for the availibilty of funds, I received a email that my application was unsuccessful I attach all my documents, I don’t have the money the to register what can I do feeling depressed.

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Good question. Lots of people want to know the answer to that. If you find out, please post the answer here? My guess is that you will be funded if they have enough money but they don’t know yet.

      Reply
      • Inno
        Inno says:

        Hi Kath I got a massage from nsfas which says I am provisionally funded pending registration what does it mean

        Reply
          • Lebo
            Lebo says:

            Hi,I was already registered when I applied for nsfas and I got the message saying I’m provisionally funded.I want to know if they will automatically send the agreement form for me to sign or do I have to send proof of registration?

          • Kath Morse
            Kath Morse says:

            That is an excellent question and if you find out the answer, I’d love you to post it here. My understanding is that you need to notify your institute that you are NSFAS funded and they communicate with NSFAS to confirm your registration. Then NSFAS generates a loan contract for you. If it is something else, and you find out, please let us all know?

      • Kath Morse
        Kath Morse says:

        I think that there will be some communication between UNISA and NSFAS then they will offer you a contract. I suggest you let UNISA know that you are NSFAS funded because I’m not sure how the communication process will work.

        Reply
  98. Sandile Sibiya
    Sandile Sibiya says:

    Hi, my NSFAS application status is “provisionally funded” . I understand the meaning of that, now I want know where I can a “confirmation letter” so that I can apply for accommodation. I’ve been tryinv to call NSFAS the whole day.

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi,

      I know it is frustrating but you can only get the letter from NSFAS so you’ll have to keep phoning. You can also check with your institute if they require the letter. The tertiary institutes know that the process is a mess this year and most are trying to not make unreasonable demands.

      Reply
  99. Frekkie
    Frekkie says:

    I applied for nsfas online and submitted only transcript of my grade 12 statement and my ID .I want to know if nsfas will reject the application. but I really need the funding.

    Reply
  100. Simphiwe
    Simphiwe says:

    Hi kaith.I’ve applied for nsfas for 2017 I haven’t received an SMS when I check on uj website(approved list) it says I qualify but unfunded when I call nsfas they say they aren’t responsible I should wait an SMS however registrations are closing tomorrow I need to know where I’m standing what can I do?

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, I am just guessing here, but it seems that UJ have assessed your financial status and know that you are likely to qualify but NSFAS haven’t resolved your application yet. NSFAS have instructed institutes not to refuse registration to students waiting to hear if they are approved. I suggest you go to UJ and register and explain your situation. There are lots of others in the same situation. They will understand.

      Reply
  101. sbusiso
    sbusiso says:

    Hi, my status it is saying ‘provisionally funded’ and I also appear on list that was displayed at fort hare university as provisionally funded yet again…I would like to know if what does that mean, am I funded or not?

    Reply
  102. Ipfi
    Ipfi says:

    hi
    I’ve received an sms saying “provisionally funded”. I’m registered at a university so I’d like to know what I must do now.

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Make sure your institute knows you have NSFAS funding. NSFAS will then generate a loan agreement for you.

      Reply
  103. Constance
    Constance says:

    My application status says “Provisionally funded” ,and I also received an email and SMS saying I am provisionally funded pending registration at a public university. Whereas I have already registered by myself, what does this mean?

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Your institute needs to communicate with NSFAS that you have registered, after which you will be offered a funding contract. Make sure your institute knows that you have NSFAS funding.

      Reply
  104. Given
    Given says:

    Hlw I’m studying at the university of technology, NSFAS is funding me and it has also paid my registration fee so I just want to ask where will I get my NSFAS card so that I will be able to buy meals?

    Reply
  105. Tshepang
    Tshepang says:

    hello

    i got a message saying,”Dear Student, You are provisionally funded pending registration at a public University/TVET College for this current registration period.The application reference number is XXXXXXXX…. NSFAS”

    What does it mean???

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      It means you will be funded as long as you were offered a place at a public tertiary institute and you register there. After registration they will send you a contract.

      Reply
  106. MthokoNjoko
    MthokoNjoko says:

    hi ..if the status says “awaiting availability of funds” ,does it mean i’m going to be funded?

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      I suspect it means you are eligible but they’ve run out of money. Should money become available (through someone not taking up the loan offer) they will allocate it to you. But this is really only a guess. They only way to be sure is to phone them.

      Reply
  107. Nomthandazo Ngcobo
    Nomthandazo Ngcobo says:

    HI Kath.. I have applied for NSFAS last year before the 30th of November 2016, my application was received and processed and i was accepted. They sent me an SMS saying that they will wait for the institution to discuss the funding as from the 5th of January 2017. I have registered at my institution which is UNISA and i am a first year student.
    The registration is closed and i do not know if my registration was finalized or not and i have not heard from NSFAS.

    WHAT COULD HAVE HAPPENED… I AM WORRIED

    Reply
  108. P.L
    P.L says:

    Hi i have chosen the course that i dont like it,why?because the course that i wanted to do was already closed.so the one that i am currently doing contain things that i have never did at school.so i just wanted to ask that if i drop out nw will nsfas allows me to apply again for next year?

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      If you discontinue properly by giving notice at your institute then NSFAS may still consider you next year. You can’t just stop going to class though. You can also speak to a course advisor at your institute and see if there is a possibility of changing courses. Someone on your preferred course may also be moving out and you can take their spot.

      Reply
  109. Khutjo
    Khutjo says:

    Hi I am a transferring student and also I am changing my course.I was funded by nsfas for 2016.I have registered with the current institution but I did not receive communication from nsfas.I do not have a status on the self-service of nsfas,so what can I do to ensure that nsfas notice that I have changed my institution and course?

    Reply
  110. Nkosi Vilakazi
    Nkosi Vilakazi says:

    Hi ; I am supposed to be the first year student at the UFS but they don’t allow to register because I don’t have the registration fee. I got the SMS saying I am provisional funded. My worry is that at the financial aid office they I should wait for another SMS. While I’m not sure how long it will take because registrations are closing on the 10th please help I! M stressed.

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Phone NSFAS and ask them to email you a letter stating you are funded. Take that letter to UFS. They really shouldn’t be refusing you registration if you are going to be NSFAS funded. Hopefully getting the letter will make a difference.

      Reply
  111. happiness
    happiness says:

    hey my status say am” provisional funded pending “…what does it mean

    if you apdid not a room at red but you don’t have money to pay for a rent what should you do

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      It means once you register and your institute notifies NSFAS that you have registered, they will fund you. Go speak to the Res. They understand the problem with NSFAS funding this year.

      Reply
  112. anonymous
    anonymous says:

    hi,ive checked my application status for nsfas saying provissionally accepted ,i havent recieved an sms confirming that,is it important that i recieve the sms or should go and cosult the fees office at witz where i school?

    please help bro

    Reply
  113. amukelani
    amukelani says:

    Hy kath I’m a first year student at uj and my status says I’m provisionally funded but when I consult nsfas office they said I should wait for the second sms which will say if I’m approved or not….my lecturer told me to buy textbooks and I don’t have money I can’t even afford my transport I’m in a bad state

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      It sounds like this is the new way of saying that you are approved but they don’t have any money left. It doesn’t mean you won’t get funding, just that they are still waiting to see if they have anything for you. I agree that you shouldn’t buy text books now. Go to the library and see if you can borrow them. In the horrible case that you DON’T get funded, remember you are financially liable for your fees. If you can’t pay your fees and will have no chance of paying you can try again with NSFAS next year. Make sure you notify your institute properly if you leave otherwise your fees and failures will keep adding up.

      Reply
  114. Xolile zungu
    Xolile zungu says:

    Hy am Xolile, I applied for nsfas last year if I checked my status its says”provisional funded” but I didn’t get an SMS from nsfas. What can I do now coz I really nid this nsfas am doing my first year at ukzn n I don’t have anything if I go there they I’ll come back if I got an sms

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      You have some options. You need to phone NSFAS and ask them for the approval letter then take it to UKZN. I know they are hard to get on to but people DO get through. You just have to persist.

      Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      OK, having read another post on this page… do you have “provisionally funded pending registration” or just “provisionally funded”? If it is pending registration then you can phone and ask for the letter. If it is just “provisionally funded” I think that this is the NSFAS way for saying that you qualify but they don’t have any money left. That doesn’t mean you won’t get money, just that they don’t have it now and they will let you know when they do. They keep changing this status wording which is super annoying and unclear. Sorry to leave you so unsure.

      Reply
  115. Beaulah Erens
    Beaulah Erens says:

    Good day I have registered at unisa and applied for nsfas funding but it say provisionally funded pending what does this mean and I have already paid my registration will nsfas pay me back

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      It means pending registration. Make sure UNISA know you are NSFAS funded. Once NSFAS are notified you are registered, they will generate a loan contract for you. The funding should cover the registration cost.

      Reply
    • Ashnee
      Ashnee says:

      hi there, I also registered with my university and paid my own reg fee…and now I am funded by nsfas…do you think they will pay us back or have you heard anything from them

      Reply
      • Kath Morse
        Kath Morse says:

        Hi, Yes I think you will be paid back but it will take a while. The money will go to your institute and you will have to request it back.

        Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      You must go and register at a tertiary institute and make sure that they know you have NSFAS funding. They will then notify NSFAS of your registration and NSFAS will prepare a loan agreement for you.

      Reply
  116. Thando
    Thando says:

    I’m a final year ukzn student studying law… however I have two previous outstanding modules which I can only do next year. Is it possible for NSFAS to cover these….

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      If you have NSFAS this year and pass more than 50% of your subjects then I think it will be fine. You should phone and check though… later in the year… when things calm down.

      Reply
  117. Tumi
    Tumi says:

    Hi Kath. I applied to a few bursars and NSFAS as well. Fortunately I got a bursary that pays only for my registration fee and tuition fees. I also have “provisional funding” from NSFAS. Is it possible to have NSFAS pay for my books, accommodation and food? I worry that the bursars will terminate the agreement should NSFAS be involved. My intention is to not commit any sort of fraud but I will need a place to stay and so on.

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Yes NSFAS will work with the bursary you have to cover your extra costs. Make sure NSFAS and your bursar both know about each other. Also contact the financial aid office at your tertiary institute and explain the situation.

      Reply
  118. Rachel
    Rachel says:

    hi

    I HAVE A PROBLEM HERE
    I registered at unisa without registration fee so they told me that my registration will be finalise if I paid the minimum registration fees,so I realize that I won’t have that money before closing date then I decided to go to tut to register with my money,i already attending at tut ,NOW I got sms from unisa that my registration has been finalized,that means nsfas paid my registration fees coz my status says provisionally funded.MY QUESTION IS THAT IF I Cancel my registration at unisa will nsfas pay funds me at tut coz where am attending now?

    please help me

    Reply
  119. Mankiti Nale
    Mankiti Nale says:

    Hy will like to ask I got the email from nsfas saying I’m provincially funded so will the definitely fund me?

    Reply
  120. Xichavo
    Xichavo says:

    Hello . I got a massage that my application is provisionally funded . the problem is that my I was not able to get into university this year because I didn’t have the registration money . so I wanted to know that since my application is funded , will I have to apply for next year or what?

    Reply
  121. primrose
    primrose says:

    Hi
    I applied for NSFAS last year, and I got an email saying I am provisionally funded, so I didn’t get a school red but I am in search of off-campus red but I heard other people telling me about the top up that should be paid if I’m living at an off-campus red,so with that concern I can’t live at red since I can’t even afford that top-up so I was wondering if NSFAS will fund me in terms of transport.

    I basically new clearance on this top up issue
    If Nsfas can pay for my transport
    And if NSFAS gives monthly allowance

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Yes NSFAS does offer the various allowances you mentioned. You should phone and ask them for a letter as this will state specifically what they are offering for transport and living expenses.

      Reply
  122. rose
    rose says:

    hello, I received an email from nsfas saying I am provisionally funded so I want to know what that statement mean, because the other person told me that I should wait for an sms which I haven’t received and I have already registered at a public university

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Make sure that your institute knows you have NSFAS funding. They will then communicate your registration with NSFAS and NSFAS will prepare your loan agreement.

      Reply
  123. Sibusiso
    Sibusiso says:

    I applied for NSFAS last year they didn’t reply and I applied early early this year and they send me an email saying I’m provisionally funded pending on the registration on university and I go to uj to confirm bt they say they can’t register me and now I am worried coz I don’t have money to register as I come from disadvantage background and now classes have started and I’m afraid that I might be left behind so if there any how NSFAS can help me plz plz help ii reay need money to register

    Reply
  124. Happiness Hlongwane
    Happiness Hlongwane says:

    Hi
    I applied for NSFAS and another bursary then I got approved by the other bursary which covers registration fee, Tuition gees and prescribed books only. I got a massage from NSFAS confirming that am provisionaly funded. I already enrolled with the other bursary. So can NSFAS pay only for accommodation,allowance and Travel expenses?

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Yes, NSFAS will work together with your other bursary. You need to notify NSFAS, your bursary and your tertiary institute of the arrangements.

      Reply
  125. Daniel
    Daniel says:

    Hello
    just want to know why CUT want your results before you can get your pin. Since I’ve submitted my results last weak Thursday and I’ve got 24points I haven’t receive pin but people with 27points and above they have received pin I’ve got sms saying I’m funded but I dont have pin

    Reply
  126. AYABONGA
    AYABONGA says:

    Hi am ayabonga…returning student bt first applicant. i just want to know whether can i be able to register with a status financial eligibility evaluated

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      No, I think you need to wait for a second message. Basically this message means you are eligible but they haven’t allocated funding to you yet. If you need to register urgently, phone NSFAS.

      Reply
  127. Ashnee
    Ashnee says:

    Good day, I applied for NSFAS but was rejected in January, I appealed and was successful last week. the problem is I had to register and pay the reg fees as I was not sure if I was going to get rejected again. I paid R5000 from family and friends. can I get that money back from nsfas or the university as people are hounding me for the money back.

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, You will be able to get the money back but it is going to take a while. After you sign a contract with NSFAS they will pay money to your institute. You can then request from the Financial Office at your institute that your money is returned to you.

      Reply
  128. Mankiti Nale
    Mankiti Nale says:

    Hi lm worried now because nsfas issued a list of people who was approved so my name doesn’t appear there and I got an email saying that I’m provincially funded so what must I do please help..from CUT

    Reply
  129. Sivuyile
    Sivuyile says:

    Hy am Sivuyile returning student bt first applicant at WSU my status says awaiting evaluation so i just want to know whether can i be able to register with this status

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Please phone NSFAS and check that they have noted that you have changed institute. As you are first time at WSU I think your status will need to be resolved to register. As long as you passed more than 50% of your subjects you can expect to be approved.

      Reply
  130. AYABONGA
    AYABONGA says:

    Hy… My status says qualified bt unfunded does that mean i won’t get fundz or i will pay fees on my own

    Reply
  131. Nomsa Mashaba
    Nomsa Mashaba says:

    Hi, I am currently studying chemical engineering at UJ. I want to know if NSFAS can give me my accommodation money in my account because all the accommodations that are NSFAS accredited are full.

    Reply
  132. thelela
    thelela says:

    Hi
    Can NSFAS convert at least R 3 500 of my food allowance into transport fare, and deposit it straight into my bank account just as accommodation allowance? because i heard they say NSFAS do not cater for transport fare. if not what can i do then? because i am staying far from campus.

    Reply
  133. busi
    busi says:

    hi.My Nsfas status says i am provisionally funded the thing is i did not get space at TVET..will nsfas pay for me if i apply for 2nd semester in june?

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      I don’t know the answer to that one. You’ll need to phone NSFAS and ask them. When you have the answer, please post it here?

      Reply
  134. primrose
    primrose says:

    Hi, I want yo know when can nsfas send the LAF form because I haven’t received that.

    And if I’m leaving in an off campus residence,foes nsfas give me money for food?

    Reply
  135. Hombakazi
    Hombakazi says:

    Hi I am very worried, I received an email stating that I am provisionally funded, I did temporary registration at UNISA before, after I get an email I went to unisa to tell them about the email I get from nsfas they say I must wait the 2nd SMS saying that my registration have been finalized, its been so long waiting now how can I do

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      As far as I understand, if you have the email and you have registered then your funding is finalised. I think the person you spoke to at UNISA has made a mistake. If you can’t resolve it at UNISA, phone NSFAS.

      Reply
  136. Tsholofelo
    Tsholofelo says:

    hi. I’m a second year tvet student doing level 3 this year. I have been trying to apply for transport allowance because I’m now 70km away from my college and it’s so hard to go to school the whole week cause I spend R80 and more per day. I don’t want to jeopardize my 80% attendance because of lack of funds when coming to transport. last year I passed my level 2 with 6 distinctions because I attended everyday. what’s going to happen now that NSFAS has been sending me from pillar to post without a straight answer as to whether they’ll cover my transport? This year we were not given any platform to change our details as we are automatically funded. please tell me what to do because I did all I was supposed to do and sent all the supporting documents on 2 Feb 2017 and now the registration is closed and I don’t know what’s what?

    Reply
  137. Tyron
    Tyron says:

    Hi,
    I would like to know when I will be receiving my student allowances for each month, I signed all the necessary forms and handed it in to student funding on the 14th of February.

    Thanks,

    Reply
  138. Sisonke
    Sisonke says:

    My application status change from provisional funded to please go to apply tab to create new application,what does that mean?

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Provisionally funded means you are funded as long as you go and register at a tertiary institute. Did you go and register? Did you tell the institute that you have NSFAS funding? If you have done this then the next thing is that NSFAS will send you a loan agreement. If you did not register or if you did register but did not tell your institute that you have NSFAS funding then something may have gone wrong. Phone NSFAS and find out. Tel No.: 0860 067 327 Email: info@nsfas.org.za

      Reply
  139. Xolile zungu
    Xolile zungu says:

    Hy if I paid my registration fee before nsfas fund me it Would be possible to institution to refund me with registration fee that I have been paid or I will not get it back?

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Yes you should be able to get your money back but it may take some time. Once NSFAS have paid into your fee acccount you will have a fee credit (for the amount you paid). You can then request that money back through the financial aid office at your institute.

      Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      For a start, don’t drop out. Withdraw properly. Go to the administration office at your institute and do the paperwork otherwise you are financially liable for your fees. Also go to your financial aid office and let them know you are withdrawing. They will pay back to NSFAS for your fees paid for the rest of the year. Ask them how to notify NSFAS that you are withdrawing. If you have signed a loan agreement with NSFAS then you do have to pay back the money they loan you whether you study or not. If you ever want to study and get NSFAS again, you need to make sure that they know you have withdrawn.

      Reply
  140. Lee
    Lee says:

    Hey there I want to know is Nsfas using our cellphone numbers from 2015 when we applied manually or the details from the Nsfas accounted 2017 final year student (I lost my old number)

    Reply
  141. Rudzani
    Rudzani says:

    Hi Kath I want to know how can I sign for nsfas to pay for my other allowances except for my tuition fees since I have a busury that is only responsible for my tuition fees and it has already have paid for it. My problem is @ nsfas they’ve included my tuition fees in the LAF and I have signed the form.

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Phone them and ask them to redo the LAF. You can have a bursary and NSFAS as long as everyone knows who is paying for what. You also need to notify your financial aid office at your tertiary institute.

      Reply
  142. Sibusiso
    Sibusiso says:

    Hi I applied for nsfas and I was approved but late so in uj the didn’t want me to register because they are close so ukzn confirm tht I could study withthem in the second semester so I wanted to know thy will nsfas pays for me as I will start in the second semester and in different varsity?

    Reply
  143. busisiwe
    busisiwe says:

    hi I’m currently trying to appeal nsfas and they requested a reference number in the form. Where could I get this reference number

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, your reference number is in the letter or email they sent you saying you were unsuccessful. Your letter will have looked something like the one below. Find your own reference number in the letter.

      Dear Applicant,

      We regret to inform you that your application for financial aid was unsuccessful, however, NSFAS will

      re-evaluate your application from 15-02-2017.

      Your application reference number is A201621086145236.

      If you have any queries, please contact NSFAS on 0860 067 327.

      Yours sincerely,
      NSFAS.

      Reply
  144. Sibusiso
    Sibusiso says:

    Hi I applied for nsfas and I was approved but the problem is that they approved me laye so in uj registration were close so they didn’t let me register. But in ukzn they said I could start studying with them in the second semester. So I wanted to what is it that im suppose to do at this stage, will nsfas pay for me i’ve if i start in June and in the different varsity? ???

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, I’m not sure about NSFAS and second semester. You should phone them and ask them. You can definitely get your university changed though.

      Reply
  145. rose
    rose says:

    Hi , I need to know that if nsfas is giving me allowance monthly, will it pay for my accommodation fees?

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      It depends what was offered on your letter from them. If you don’t have a letter, phone them and ask for it.

      Reply
  146. Selina
    Selina says:

    hi kath.I applied for NSFAS last year November. in January I was provisionally funded. now when I check my account it says go to the apply tab and I have registered with the University of Limpopo.. what might have went wrong?

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      That is really disappointing. If you really can’t find a way then make sure you withdraw properly and legally otherwise you are still responsible for the fees.

      Reply
  147. Rethabile
    Rethabile says:

    I got a message from nsfas that I’m provisionally funded pending at private university or tvet ,i registered with TUT but now when i check online at my account the dashboard says go to the apply tab to create application, whats does this mean??…..I’m stressed cause i only found it now that i should have informed the university that i have nsfas then they inform nsfas,what can i do?or is it possible to tell the university now that i got nsfas so that they inform nsfa.?….im confused

    Reply
  148. MAHLATSE SUCCESS
    MAHLATSE SUCCESS says:

    Hi.. I was provisionally selected at university of Johannesburg .. a d around December I’ve received the sms say my application was declined. .
    . so last month around February I’ve received a sms from nsfas .. that says

    . my nsfas finding for the university I have chosen was unsuccessful ,if I e nroll in any public tvet college .. my application might be reconsidered. .
    … and they gave me the reference number

    So I don’t know what to do because I think all the public tvet collages have closed thier application at the moment. ..
    HELP

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, You are right. Applications are closed at all institutes now. You can apply for TVET for second semester but I’m not sure how NSFAS second semester funding will work out or whether you will have reapply to NSFAS. Best would be to ask at your nearest TVET college.

      Reply
  149. Amukelani Baloyi
    Amukelani Baloyi says:

    Hi kath! My application status has changed from provisionally funded to please go to apply tab and create new application and when I check application status online it says no data could be found on the system. What must I do because I have registered with the university

    Reply
  150. Tshepang
    Tshepang says:

    Hello

    I got provisionally funded.so was just asking when will they give me my food money because everyone else here is okay.in Bloemfontein.CUT please tell NSAFS to help out this side please we are so hungry

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Presumably someone was paying for your food before you were at CUT. Can’t they continue to help you out with food money until your NSFAS funding comes through?

      Reply
  151. neva
    neva says:

    good day i would like to know they say that i should have a letter to prove my grandparents receives sassa isnt the copy of the sassa cards being certified also excepted or must it be a letter and about the sassa grants should they also get a banking statement or isnt it needed as long as i have copies of they’re cards certified.

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, If you have been asked for specific documents, you should provide them. Your Granny can get a letter from the SASSA office, as requested. Her bank statements are also required however if she does not have a bank account she can provide an affidavit stating that she is a pensioner receiving the SASSA grant only and does not have a bank account or any other source of income.

      Reply
  152. Octavia
    Octavia says:

    Hello, i started paying my NSFAS loan last year August until recent. when i started paying i was told that my balance is R 87 196, its been 7 months now since i started paying but my balance now is R 87 665.72 and i dont understand how plz help

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, you’d best phone NSFAS about that but one guess could be that they only add interest charges once a year and that date has come up since you started paying.

      Reply
  153. Amu
    Amu says:

    Hi kath! My application status has changed from provisionally funded to please go to apply tab and create new application and when I check application status online it says no data could be found on the system. What must I do because I have registered with the university

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, I’ve had this query a few times this week. I don’t know the answer but I’m going to make two guesses. 1. NSFAS have finished processing and instead of having a “finished processing” message which would have been helpful and reassuring, they just reset the whole system. OR 2. Your tertiary institute did not communicate with NSFAS that you had registered either because you didn’t tell them you have NSFAS funding or because something went wrong. If NSFAS think you didn’t register then your offer of funding has been withdrawn.

      What I would do is start at the financial aid office at my institute and make sure they know I have NSFAS and that they have communicated my registration with NSFAS. If that is all OK then you can assume it is problem 1 and you just have to wait for your loan agreement to be sent through to you. If you still feel worried you can phone NSFAS and ask what is going on.

      Reply
  154. monica
    monica says:

    Hello
    last year NSFAS funded me then ths year january my application was unsuccessful due to low academic criteria so I appealed ..even today I still haven’t got the respond yet so should I be worried ?

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, I don’t know anyone who has gone through the appeals process so I’m not sure how long it should take. Best thing would be to phone NSFAS and see where it is up to.

      Reply
  155. Thabang
    Thabang says:

    Hi
    Last year i applied for nsfas at Uj and i never received any feedback from them. So i heard that there was a list of students who was approved by nsfas and those who weren’t approved. My name was on the approved list with the status “qualify but not funded”, i would like to know what does that mean like I’m worried about my fees this year. I’ve got no one to pay for my fees and my mother is unemployed, im a first year student. Please help me.

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, I think it means that NSFAS ran out of money before they processed your application. With the old system it would mean you are on the waiting list. If someone drops out who is NSFAS funded then they can reallocate that funding to people who are waiting. You should phone NSFAS urgently and find out how it is going to work this year. You can also speak to the financial aid office at UJ and see if they have any advice.

      Reply
  156. Karabo
    Karabo says:

    Hi, I apply for NSFAS last year the 04 September 2016 by then only UFS had approved to study with them so I stated it on my application, and on the 17 of January this year(2017) I received an email saying I’m provisionally funded pending registration at any university or TVET so I apply for another institution which is UJ and within 3days of my application they approved me and now I’m currently studying at UJ but I haven’t received the funding from NSFAS

    Reply
  157. KARABO MOSIKIDI
    KARABO MOSIKIDI says:

    I am a first year student at UJ. I applied for Nsfas last year via their website for all the university that I was interested in studying, I got accepted at UFS and UJ and I got 2 sms from nsfas that said I was funded at any university /tvet college I can register for 2017 academic year. I chose to register at UJ which was not easy because they kept saying my funding was for UFS not UJ, but at the last minute I managed to register.

    My main problem is that I cannot see myself on the list of UJ because the person who was helping me register said they are going to transfer my Nsfas from UFS to UJ I should not worry but now I am being sent up and down with no clear indication of a solution for me and I do not know which other channels to follow in order to see my student account with the funding that I have received. Kindly help me understand what I need to do to receive funding like other student.

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, Your funding should be transferred, just as the person who has helped you register is saying. There are huge backlogs at NSFAS. Even people registered at the institute originally stated on their application have not received a funding contract or any funds. I think you should just be patient with this. It is going to work out. If you are super worried though, the best course of action is to phone or email NSFAS directly.

      Reply
  158. Dineo
    Dineo says:

    Hi wanted to know what should one do,if they have’nt received any Sms or link from NSFAS to sign the Loan Agreement Form?…PLEASE HELP.

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      As far as I am aware, MANY people have not received their SMS or link yet. If you urgently need money/ food vouchers etc, you should contact NSFAS directly.

      Reply
  159. Ayabonga
    Ayabonga says:

    hey everyone;i received everything and finally got the vouchers but the main problem is i do not get accommodation so i’m worried that NSFAS will think that maybe i have a place to stay and i wonder they will pay for my accommodation when i get one

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      It depends what they offered you originally and what is in your contract. Some people get a living at home allowance/ accommodation allowance, and some don’t. Check your contract and see what it says.

      Reply
  160. tshelela
    tshelela says:

    please tell me, when will NSFAS pay private accommodation allowance, because the landlords want to chase us out.

    Reply
  161. Yashna Chunderman
    Yashna Chunderman says:

    Hi My name is Yashna and I’m studying at a university. I received a SMS on the 25/04/17 statting that i have been successful in NSFAS and reference number. How do i know whether its been paid. Did i really recieve the funding. Please help

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi, The next thing is that they will confirm you have registered at a tertiary institute. They will then send you a funding contract to sign. Depending on what is in the contract they will then credit your fee account (you can check with your institute), credit your accommodation (ask for an updated statement from your accommodation provider) and send you S-Bux. S-Bux are vouchers sent to your cell phone that you can spend at NSFAS providers (like PickNPay). If you need more details you should phone NSFAS directly. Kath

      Reply
  162. Yashna Chunderman
    Yashna Chunderman says:

    Do I inform them that I’m already registered in a tertiary institution or do they receive this information on their own?

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      They should find the information on their own however, if you are worried, you can phone or email them and let them know. You should also make sure your institute knows that you have NSFAS funding.

      Reply
  163. zisanda
    zisanda says:

    on the 3rd of april i received a message that i have been approved by nsfas but i have not received laf to sign but other students who received the same message as mine the same day and even after me has received their laf and are getting the money already but there is nothing for me. i only signed laf for NMMU loan (50000) for maintanance while we are waiting for nsfas on the 30th of march and we were suppose to wait for 2 days but i have beeen waiting for a month now but others received their money just after 48 hours
    and i went to finincial aid they said i should call sbux and i did they just said i should wait.my foster care grant has stopped so i am really struggling

    Reply
    • Kath Morse
      Kath Morse says:

      Hi Zisanda, If I were you I would keep phoning or emailing NSFAS until you get sorted. I know other families who have done this and it really pays off.

      Reply
  164. koketjo
    koketjo says:

    hi.. i was studying at TVET and completed with a balance of R9000 from NSFAS so my question is can i use that money to my next course i want to study in a different terciary facility?

    Reply