The opening for 2024 NSFAS applications is scheduled for 21 November 2023, with the deadline set at 31 January 2024. This is particularly advantageous for prospective college or university students in 2024 who face financial constraints.
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) offers financial support to individuals seeking to pursue higher education at a South African University or TVET College in 2024. NSFAS serves as a lifeline for those requiring financial assistance.
NSFAS extends funding through a bursary format, with repayment becoming due only after securing employment and completing the academic program. Notably, the NSFAS bursary spans the entire duration of studies, contingent upon the successful completion of modules and meeting academic requirements.
For those eager to initiate the application process, here’s a guide on how to apply for NSFAS in 2024:
Requirements for the 2024 NSFAS Applications
- You need to have a valid South African ID, which can either be in the form of an ID book or smart ID card (unfortunately, no foreign individuals may apply)
- Your combined household income cannot exceed R350 000 per annum
- If you’re a disabled person, then your household income must not exceed R600 000 per annum
- You need to have passed grade 12 at a secondary institution for both University and TVET funding.
What NSFAS Funding Covers
- Registration fees
- Tuition fees
- Allowance for food
- Allowance for personal care
- Learning materials
- Accommodation (if necessary)
- Travel (if necessary)
Supporting Documents Needed for 2024 NSFAS Applications
- A certified copy of your ID or birth certificate
- Certified ID copies of parents, guardian/s or spouse
- Your proof of income or 1 year’s IRP5 or your parents, guardian or spouse’s proof of income. (NOTE: If you are a SASSA Grant recipient, no proof of income will be required)
- If you are disabled you must submit a completed and signed Disability Annexure Form.
- If you are recognised as a Vulnerable Child by the Department of Social Development must provide a completed and signed Vulnerable Child Declaration form.
Other required documents if applicable:
- Retrenchment letter
- Death certificate/s
- Divorce decree
2024 NSFAS Applications: How to Apply
Once the 2024 NSFAS applications are open, you will need to create a myNSFAS account, and do the following:
- Click on register
- Tick the acceptance option to verify and validate the information you provide
- Type in your ID number as per your ID document
- Type in your name and surname as per your ID Document
- Type in your email address and cellphone number (Please note that your email will become your username)
- Create a password and confirm your password
- Upload a copy of your ID
- Click on the register button
- A One Time Pin (OTP) will be sent to the email address and cellphone number you provided
- Type in the OTP in the tab provided and click submit
- You will then receive another SMS and email confirming that your myNSFAS account has been created
- You must now proceed with filling out your application and providing the necessary supporting documentation
If you still have further questions, please visit the NSFAS FAQ for more information.