How Do I Apply For NSFAS For The First Time?

If you are a South African citizen or permanent resident and meet the NSFAS eligibility requirement, you may be qualified to apply for funding. However, applying for NSFAS for the first time can be a challenging process, especially if you are not sure where to start. In this article, we will give you a step-by-step guide on how to apply for NSFAS for the first time, so that you can confidently navigate the application process and access the financial assistance you require to achieve your academic goals. How Do I Apply For NSFAS For The First Time?

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What does the NSFAS funding cover?
Applicants who are approved for NSFAS funding are covered for:

Registration fees
Tuition fees

After your funding is confirmed, you may also receive allowances for the following:

Living allowance
Learning Material
Personal Care
Accommodation or Transport

Who Qualify To Receive NSFAS Funding

To qualify for bursaries, applicants must adhere to four fundamental standards;

every South African national
All winners of SASSA grants are eligible for funding
applicants whose annual household combined income does not exceed R350 000
A disabled person: The total annual household income cannot exceed R600,000.
students who started their studies before 2024 and whose household income is not higher than R122 000 annually

How Do I Apply For NSFAS For The First Time?

Requirement needed to apply for NSFAS

In order for NSFAS to submit your financing application in time for your enrollment at an institution of higher learning, it’s critical that you provide the proper supporting documentation. The supporting documents that are needed are:

Every applicant must submit a copy of their ID. The Department of Home Affairs’ temporary ID is acceptable.
Non-SASSA applicants need to submit ID documents of their spouses, parents, or legal guardians.
Smart ID cards: a copy with the smart ID on both sides is required.
If appropriate (non-SASSA), the applicant and/or parent(s), legal guardian(s), and/or spouse must produce the most recent payslip, an appointment letter, and/or a retrenchment letter as proof of income.
Driver’s licenses and passports are not acceptable forms of identification.

What are the requirements to apply?

must be a permanent resident or a citizen of South Africa. No one shall have a combined total household income of more than R350 000 per year. The combined gross household income of people with disabilities should not be higher than R600,000. SASSA recipients are automatically eligible based on their financial situation Email and a mobile number are required. students who began their studies before 2018 and whose household incomes do not exceed R122 000 annually.

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NSFAS Monthly Allowance In 2024/2025

The following monthly payments can be expected:

Educational Resources (Books): R433
Living Expenses: R1250
Incidental Provisions: R241
Travel Costs: R625
Accommodation: Value is dependent on each student

How Do I Apply For NSFAS For The First Time?

Verify your eligibility before starting your application. You must be eligible for the NSFAS. You must be a citizen or lawful resident of South Africa, be enrolled in or intending to enroll in a public university or TVET college and be able to show financial need.
On the NSFAS website, sign up: Click “myNSFAS account” on the NSFAS website (www.nsfas.org.za) to set up a profile. You must establish a username and password and input your personal information.
Finish the application: After registering, access your myNSFAS account and fill out the online application. You will be required to answer questions about your family’s financial situation, your academic history, your preferred school and field of study, and your academic record. Additionally, you must attach supporting files including copies of your ID, your income tax return, and your academic transcripts.
Review your application to make sure all the information is valid and complete before submitting it. This is done after you have filled out the application form and uploaded all the required documents. Submit your application after you’re pleased.
Check the status of your application: After submitting your application, you can do so by logging onto your myNSFAS account. NSFAS may also send you email or SMS notifications.
Attend to any additional needs: If your application is approved, NSFAS will ask you to sign a loan agreement form and provide other supporting information. Additionally, you might need to go through a verification or interview process.
Get your funding: NSFAS will release the money directly to your institution to pay for your tuition, lodging, and other living costs if your application is accepted and all requirements are met.

It is important to note that the application procedure for NSFAS may differ slightly from year to year. It is urged to check the NSFAS website for the latest details and instructions on how to apply for funding.

NSFAS Contact

For general, student and NSFAS Wallet inquiries

For all other queries regarding students:
Tel No.: 08000 67327
Email: info@nsfas.org.za

Physical Address
The Halyard, 4 Christiaan Barnard St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8001

Read more on Nsfas HERE

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