NSFAS applications still closed

We are nearly in November 2021, and the National Student Financial Aid Scheme ( NSFAS) has not yet opened their applications for funding for 2022. This really does add considerable strain to the matric class of 2021, who have to write their final examinations, uncertain of whether they will be able to further study at a tertiary institution next year.

Along with the rising costs of living, overwhelming debt and job uncertainty – parents of learners are also faced with a lack of access to information around NSFAS funding.

Here is a compilation of FAQ’s on the matter, as answered by NSFAS

Who qualifies for NSFAS funding?

• All South African citizens
• All SASSA grant recipients qualifies for funding
• Applicants whose combined household income is not more than R350 000 per annum
• Person with disability: Combined household income must not be 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 that 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 the academic requirements.

• Foreign students (any student who is not a South African citizen)

Which institutions does NSFAS provide funding for?

NSFAS will only provide financial assistance to eligible students who have applied and have been accepted at public universities and TVET colleges for an approved funded programme. We do not provide funding if you will be studying or already studying at a private institution.

Does the NSFAS funding cover short courses at universities?

No. NSFAS funding covers approved funded programmes at universities which are all undergraduate whole qualifications i.e. degree and diploma.

I am a parent/guardian, unemployed, was not retrenched, what proof may I submit for the application?

An affidavit will be accepted; however, your employment status will be verified through government entities and 3rd party agencies.

My parents/ guardian is an informal trader selling fruit, what proof of income should I upload?

An affidavit by your parent/guardian will be required as proof. Your parents/guardian income will be verified by 3rd party agencies.

How do I create a myNSFAS account? (to apply)

• Log onto www.nsfas.org.za and click on the myNSFAS tab.
• Click on register. Tick on the acceptance option to allow NSFAS to verify and validate the information you provided.
• Type in your ID number as it appears on your ID document.
• Type in your name and surname as they appear on your ID Document.
• Type in your email address and cellphone number. Your username will be your email address.
• Create a password and confirm your password.
• Upload a copy of your ID.
• Click on register.
• After clicking register, a One Time Pin (OTP) will be sent to the email address and cellphone number you provided.
• Check your cellphone and email for the OTP.
• 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 may now continue with your application.

What supporting documents are required when I apply?

All applicants are required to submit: Certified copy of your ID, not older than 3 months A signed and completed consent form. If you are dependent on your parents/guardian/spouse, please provide: Certified ID copies of parent/s, guardian, spouse not older than 3 months Proof of income of parent, guardian or spouse (payslip or appointment letter If you are self-sufficient (no parent/guardian support) please provide: Proof of income (payslip or appointment letter). If you have a disability, please provide: Completed and signed Annexure A (if your information is not pre-populated on the portal). If you are an orphan, please provide: Completed and signed Declaration Form, Other documents required, if applicable: Retrenchment letter / UIF documentation; Death certificate/s; Divorce decree.

When will application results be communicated?

Application results will be communicated to all applicants once NSFAS received confirmation from the Institution that an academic offer has been made to you. This will be communicated to you before the start of the academic year via SMS, email and through your myNSFAS account.

In an ideal world, we would not have to worry about money for education, food, debt and a decent living. Sadly, we do not exist in an ideal world – and people are struggling on all fronts.

If you find yourself skipping debt repayments, contact NDA today. Debt review may not be a solution for everyone, but it is a viable debt relief option for over-indebted South African consumers.