2021 NSFAS Applications: How to apply

Q: What will the funding cover

Registeration feesTuition feesAllowance for foodAllowance for personal careLearning materialsAccommodation (if necessary)Travel (if necessary)

Q: What you will need to submit your application

Copy of your ID or birth certificateID copies of parents, guardian or spouseYour proof of income or 1 year’s IRP5 or your parents, guardian or spouse’s proof of income. (NOTE: If you are a SASSA grant recipient, no proof of income will be required)If you are disabled you must submit a completed and signed Disability Annexure A FormIf you are recognised as a Vulnerable Child by the Department of Social Development must provide a completed and signed Vulnerable Child Declaration Form

by FundiConnect Editorial Team | 14 August 2020

The 2021 NSFAS applications are officially open! If you are looking to study at a South African University or TVET College in 2021 and require financial assistance, then this could definitely be an option for you.

NSFAS funding comes in the form of a bursary and is only payable once you have a secured job after you finish your studies. It will cover the entire duration of your studies as long as pass the modules and complete the academic requirements.

Application Dates

Opening date: 1st August 2020
Closing date: 30th November 2020

Requirements to apply

A South African citizen with a valid South Africa ID (unfortunately no foreign students may apply)
Your combined household income must not exceed R350 000 per annum
If you are disabled, then your household income must not exceed R600 000 per annum
You need to have passed grade 12 at a secondary institution for both university and Tvet funding

What will the funding cover

Registeration fees
Tuition fees
Allowance for food
Allowance for personal care
Learning materials
Accommodation (if necessary)
Travel (if necessary)

What you will need to submit your application

Copy of your ID or birth certificate
ID copies of parents, guardian or spouse
Your proof of income or 1 year’s IRP5 or your parents, guardian or spouse’s proof of income. (NOTE: If you are a SASSA grant recipient, no proof of income will be required)
If you are disabled you must submit a completed and signed Disability Annexure A Form
If you are recognised as a Vulnerable Child by the Department of Social Development must provide a completed and signed Vulnerable Child Declaration Form

How do I apply

Follow this link here
Click on register
Tick the acceptance option to verify and validate the information you provide
Type in your ID number as per your ID document
Type in your name and surname as per your ID Document
Type in your email address and cellphone number (Please note that your email will become your username)
Create a password and confirm your password
Upload a copy of your ID
Click on the register button
A One Time Pin (OTP) will be sent to the email address and cellphone number you provided
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 must now proceed with fill out your application and providing the necessary supporting documentation

If you still have further questions, please visit the NSFAS FAQ for more information here.

application information funding information nsfas

FundiConnect Editorial Team

The FundiConnect Editorial Team researches, writes, and maintains comprehensive guides on South African higher education, bursaries, NSFAS funding, and career development. Our content is verified against official institutional sources, DHET publications, and direct admissions office communications to ensure accuracy for students navigating their post-school journey.