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
Other required documents if applicable:
- Retrenchment letter
- Death certificate/s
- Divorce decree
* Due to the current COVID-19 restrictions, none of the documents are to required to be certified.
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.
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.
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