Categories: University Admissions 2023

How Do I Check If NSFAS Will Fund Me In 2024?

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a lifeline for many South African students who want to go to university but don’t have the financial means. NSFAS offers financial aid to eligible students to cover tuition, housing, and other study-related expenditures. If you are a student who is unsure whether NSFAS will fund you, this article will walk you through the processes of determining your eligibility and checking your funding status.

Understand the Eligibility Criteria

Before you can check if NSFAS will fund you, it’s crucial to understand the eligibility criteria. To qualify for NSFAS funding, you must meet the following basic requirements:

Be a South African citizen or a permanent resident.
Be enrolled or planning to enroll at a public university or TVET college.
Demonstrate a combined annual household income below the NSFAS financial eligibility threshold. The minimum income of eligible students is set at R350,000
Meet the academic requirements of your chosen institution.

Apply for NSFAS Funding

To be considered for NSFAS funding, you need to apply during the application period, typically open from October to February each year. You can apply online through the NSFAS website or submit a hard copy application form to the NSFAS office. Make sure to provide accurate information and all the required supporting documents, such as your ID, academic transcripts, and proof of income.

Check Your Application Status

After submitting your NSFAS application, you’ll need to wait for a response from NSFAS. They will review your application and inform you of your funding status. This process may take some time, so it’s important to be patient. You can check your application status by:

Logging into your NSFAS online profile on the NSFAS website.
Contact the NSFAS call centre at 08000 NSFAS (67327).
Visiting your institution’s financial aid office for assistance.

Keep Your Contact Information Updated

It is vital that your NSFAS contact information is kept up to date. They may need to contact you to update you on the progress of your application or funding. Keep your contact information up to date to avoid missing important notifications.

Be Prepared for Verification

NSFAS may request additional documentation or verification of your application details. Be prepared to provide any necessary documents promptly to facilitate the verification process. Failure to do so could result in delays or denial of funding.

Check for Other Funding Options

While you wait for your NSFAS bursary decision, look into other scholarship and financial aid options. Many private organizations and universities provide scholarships and bursaries to help you pay for your education.