What is NSFAS?
NSFAS is a government entity under the Department of Higher Education and Training, established according to the NSFAS Act (Act 56 of 1999). Its mandate is to provide financial support to disadvantaged students who wish to further their studies at public universities or TVET colleges.
Do you qualify?
You qualify for a government bursary if you are studying or wish to study
at a public university or TVET college and come from a family with an
income of R350 000 or less.
What Does the Bursary Cover?
Amounts indicated are aligned with the latest approved DHET guidelines.
University
AccommodationAs per actual costs
Transport (up to 40km)R7,500 / annum
Living AllowanceR15,000 / annum
Book AllowanceR5,200 / annum
Incidental / Personal CareR2,900 / annum
TVET College
Accommodation (Urban)R24,000 / annum
Accommodation (Peri-Urban)R18,900 / annum
Accommodation (Rural)R15,750 / annum
Transport (up to 40km)R7,350 / annum
TransportR7,000 / annum
Incidental / Personal CareR2,900 / annum
Who Qualifies for NSFAS Funding?
- All South African citizens
- All SASSA grant recipients qualify for funding
- Applicants whose combined household income is not more than R350,000 per annum
- Persons with disability: Combined household income must be not more than R600,000 per annum
- Students who started studying before 2018 whose household income is not more than R122,000 per annum
Who Should NOT Apply?
- Students who have completed a previous qualification
- Students with a combined household income of more than R350,000 per annum
- Students who have already applied, qualified and received funding — they are automatically funded for the duration of their studies, provided they pass their modules and meet academic requirements.
Apply for NSFAS Funding
Start your application today and secure funding for your tertiary education.
Applications for NSFAS open annually from September to January.
Make sure you apply before the deadline.