What You Need to Know About NSFAS and Other Student Funding Options

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government-funded bursary and loan programme aimed at helping South African students access public universities and TVET colleges. It covers essential expenses like tuition, accommodation, textbooks, and a living allowance, and includes extra support for students with disabilities

✅ Who Qualifies?

• South African citizens or permanent residents with a combined household income of R350,000 or less qualify for bursaries; those with income up to R600,000 may receive loans.

• Students must be enrolling in a public higher education institution and meet minimum academic requirements.

📝 NSFAS Application Tips

1. Apply on Time – Applications typically open in September and close mid-December for the next academic year.

2. Gather All Documents Early – You will need ID copies, proof of household income, your own latest academic results, and completed Annexure A if applicable.

3. Complete the MyNSFAS Application Online – Create an account, upload certified documents, and double-check everything before submitting

4. Track Your Status – Log in regularly to monitor your application; delays are common, so early tracking helps

5. Accept Funding Offers Carefully – Understand the terms, especially bursary performance clauses and loan repayment policies

🎓 NSFAS Bursary vs Loan: What’s the Difference?

• NSFAS Bursary: Does not need to be repaid and is based on need and/or academic merit.

• NSFAS Loan: Available for household incomes up to R600,000. Up to 40% converts to a bursary if academic performance meets criteria. Repayment starts after graduation and once earnings exceed certain thresholds

💡 Other Student Funding Options in SA

While NSFAS is the most widely known, there are several other valuable funding sources worth exploring:

🔹 University-Specific Bursaries & Merit Scholarships

Public institutions like Wits, UP, and UJ offer merit-based bursaries for high-achieving students, and many universities manage their own funds for academic excellence

🔹 SETAs & Government Bursaries

Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) and government departments (e.g., Transport, Arts & Culture) offer bursaries tied to specific fields of study.

🔹 Private-Public Partnerships (e.g., ISFAP)

Organisations like the Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme (ISFAP) provide full coverage, tuition, accommodation, travel, books, and stipends, along with academic and social support.

🔹 Bank Loans & Alternative Financing

Banks such as Capitec, Nedbank, and FNB offer student loans with competitive interest rates and flexible terms. Additionally, platforms like Fundi and Manati offer education financing beyond NSFAS.

🔹 Crowdfunding & Employer Sponsorship

Crowdfunding platforms and employer-sponsored bursaries or learnerships can help bridge financial gaps for students pursuing specific career paths.

🧭 Choosing the Right Funding Mix

1. Start with NSFAS – Due to its broad coverage and favourable terms.

2. Explore University Bursaries – For academic merit and programme-specific funding.

3. Investigate SETA & Government Bursaries – Especially if you’re studying in high-demand fields.

4. Consider Private Financing – For additional flexibility, especially for postgraduates.

5. Use Crowdfunding or Employer Support – To plug any remaining funding gaps.

✅ Tips to Maximise Your Success

• Apply Early for NSFAS and institutional bursaries.

• Keep an organised document folder with certified copies.

• Track deadlines and follow up via your institution’s financial aid office.

• Maintain good academic standing to convert loans into bursaries and qualify for merit awards.

• Check options annually as many bursaries require reapplication each year.

🧾 Final Takeaway

Funding your university journey in South Africa doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start with the NSFAS application, and supplement it with university merit bursaries, SETA awards, private student loans, ISFAP, or alternative financing routes. With preparation, timely submissions, and ongoing performance, you can assemble a robust funding package that aligns with your academic and career ambitions.