2023 NSFAS Applications: How to apply

by Staff Reporter

The 2023 NSFAS applications officially opened on 28 September 2022 and will close on 31 January 2023.

This is exciting news for students wanting to apply to a tertiary institution in 2023, but are unable to afford it. So, how does NSFAS help? 

Well, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) provides funding to those who would like to study at a South African University or TVET College in 2023, but need some financial assistance. 

NSFAS provides funding to students in form of a bursary, which only needs to be paid once you’ve actually secured employment and completed your studies.

The best part is, that it covers the entire duration of your studies—provided that you pass the modules and complete the academic requirements.

Eager to get start the application process? Here’s how to apply for NSFAS 2023:

2023 nsfas applications

NSFAS Application Dates

  • Opening date: 28 September 2022
  • Closing date: 31 January 2023

Requirements for the 2022 NSFAS Applications

  • You need to have a valid South African ID, which can either be in the form of an ID book or smart ID card (unfortunately, no foreign individuals may apply)
  • Your combined household income cannot exceed R350 000 per annum
  • If you’re a disabled person, 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 NSFAS Funding Covers

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

Supporting Documents Needed for 2023 NSFAS Applications

  • A certified copy of your ID or birth certificate
  • Certified ID copies of parents, guardian/s 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

2023 NSFAS Applications: How to Apply  

Once the 2023 NSFAS applications are open, you will need to create a myNSFAS account, and do the following:

  • 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 filling out your application and providing the necessary supporting documentation

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

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