Are you a South African student dreaming of studying at a university or TVET college but worried about how to afford it? The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) can help make that dream a reality by covering your tuition, accommodation, transport, and other learning materials.
What is NSFAS?
NSFAS is a government-funded financial aid scheme that helps qualifying students pay for their tertiary education. It is aimed at students from poor and working-class families who plan to study at public universities or TVET colleges in South Africa.
Who Qualifies for NSFAS?
You may qualify for NSFAS if:
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You're a South African citizen.
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Your combined household income is R350,000 or less per year.
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You’re applying to or currently studying at a public university or TVET college.
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You're a SASSA grant recipient (automatic qualification, but you still need to apply).
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You’re disability-affected, and your combined household income is R600,000 or less.
How to Apply
Step 1: Create Your NSFAS Account
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Go to the NSFAS website
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Click on “myNSFAS” at the top of the page.
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Click on Register and follow the prompts to create your profile.
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Use your ID number, email, and cell phone number.
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You’ll receive a One-Time Pin (OTP) to verify your contact details.
Step 2: Login and Start Your Application
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Once registered, log in using your email and password.
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Click on “Apply”.
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Fill in your personal information (ID, contact details, address, etc.).
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Enter your academic details and the institution you’re applying to.
Step 3: Upload Required Documents
Make sure all documents are certified and clear. These include:
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Your South African ID document or birth certificate
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Your parent(s)/guardian(s) ID documents
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Proof of income (payslips, affidavits, or pension receipts)
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Your latest academic transcript or exam results
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Proof of disability (if applicable)
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SASSA letter (if you're a recipient)
🔒 Important: NSFAS does NOT accept incomplete applications, so double-check everything before submitting.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
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After uploading all documents and completing your application, click “Submit”.
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You’ll receive a confirmation SMS/email with your reference number.
What Does NSFAS Cover?
For University students, NSFAS may cover:
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Tuition fees
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Accommodation (or a housing allowance)
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Living allowance
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Learning materials
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Transport (up to 40km from campus)
For TVET college students, NSFAS covers:
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Tuition fees
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Transport
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Accommodation
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Learning materials
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Personal care allowance