NSFAS: who qualifies and how to apply

Who usually qualifies

• • South African citizens with a valid ID.
• • Combined household income under the published threshold (roughly R350 000 a year; around R600 000 for students with a disability). Confirm the current figure.
• • SASSA grant recipients qualify automatically on the income test.
• • Registered (or applying) for an approved qualification at a public university or TVET college. Private colleges are not funded.
• • Meeting academic progression rules if you are already studying.

What it covers

• • Tuition and registration fees, paid directly to the institution.
• • Accommodation (capped) or a travel allowance if you live at home.
• • A learning material allowance and a monthly living allowance.
• • Amounts differ between university and TVET students.

Documents to have ready

• • Your ID (or birth certificate) and parents'/guardians' IDs.
• • Proof of household income: payslips, UIF letter, SASSA letter or affidavit.
• • Latest academic results.
• • A signed consent form; a disability annexure or vulnerable-child declaration if it applies.

Applying, step by step

1. 1. Create a myNSFAS account at nsfas.org.za with your own email and cellphone number.
2. 2. Complete the application and upload clear, readable documents.
3. 3. Submit before the annual deadline — applications usually open around September and close in January.
4. 4. Track the status on myNSFAS; respond quickly to any request for extra documents.
5. 5. If rejected, submit an appeal within 30 days with proof addressing the rejection reason.