The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government-funded organization that provides financial assistance to students in South Africa.
One of the key areas of focus for NSFAS is supporting students enrolled in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges.
TVET colleges offer a wide range of courses and programs designed to equip students with vocational and occupational skills, enabling them to find employment or start their own businesses.
Public TVET Colleges and Course Offerings
Public TVET Colleges in South Africa offer a diverse range of courses and programs designed to meet the needs of employers and industries.
These courses vary in duration, from short courses to formal diploma courses that can last up to three years.
The costs of these courses also vary, but it’s worth noting that the Department of Higher Education and Training subsidizes 80% of the delivery cost, making them more affordable for students.
NSFAS Funding for TVET Programmes
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) provides funding for Ministerial-approved programs at TVET Colleges. Some of the generally funded programs include:
Engineering Studies
- National Certificate – Vocational (NQF levels 2-4)
- Engineering studies – Report 191 (N1-N6)
- Engineering and Related Design
- Electrical Infrastructure
- Civil Engineering Construction
- Information Technology & Computer Science
Business & Utility Studies
- National Certificate – Vocational (NQF levels 2-4)
- Report 191 (N1-N6)
- Management
- Marketing
- Finance
- Office Administration
- Economics & Accounting
- Education & Development
- Hospitality
- Tourism
- Safety in Society
- Transport & Logistics
Pre-Learning Programme (PLP) Funding
NSFAS also provides funding for Pre-Learning Programmes (PLPs) at TVET Colleges.
Eligibility Criteria for NSFAS Funding
To be eligible for NSFAS funding, students must meet the following criteria:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be registered or intending to register on a PLP, NC(V), or Report 191 program at a public TVET College
- Be in need of financial assistance
- Demonstrate proven and accepted academic performance (for returning students)
- Not be enrolling for a qualification that duplicates previous learning that was state-funded
- Fall within the maximum threshold of up to R350,000 of combined gross family income per annum
Allowances and Benefits
NSFAS funding provides students with various allowances and benefits, including:
- Registration & Tuition Fees
- Personal Care Allowance
- Transport Allowance
- Accommodation Allowance
NSFAS Contact
For more information on NSFAS funding and eligibility criteria, you can contact them directly:
The Halyard, 4 Christian Barnard
Cape Town City Center, Cape Town, 8000
Private Bag X1, Plumstead, Cape Town, 7801
T: 0800 067 327
E: info@nsfas.org.za