If you are considering a learnership in South Africa, you may wonder if you can access NSFAS funding to support your studies.
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme provides funding for eligible students in need, but many people are unsure about whether they can apply for this funding while undertaking a learnership.
What is a Learnership?
A learnership is a structured learning programme that combines both theoretical education and practical training.
It is designed to help you gain work experience in a specific field, while also earning a qualification.
The qualification is often linked to specific industries, such as engineering, health, or business.
Learnerships are offered by employers, education providers, or SETAs (Sector Education and Training Authorities).
Can You Receive NSFAS Funding While Doing a Learnership?
NSFAS funding is mainly intended for students pursuing formal education at public universities, TVET colleges, and some private institutions.
Unfortunately, NSFAS does not offer funding for learnerships.
A learnership is different from a traditional qualification in the sense that it involves both work and study components.
While NSFAS funding covers tuition and accommodation fees for enrolled students, a learnership is not treated the same way.
Why Does NSFAS Not Fund Learnerships?
NSFAS is designed to support students pursuing full-time education at accredited institutions.
Since a learnership combines practical work experience with training, it falls outside the scope of traditional academic qualifications.
The funding provided by NSFAS is specifically aimed at covering the costs associated with formal education at universities or colleges.
Are There Other Funding Options for Learnerships?
Although NSFAS doesn’t fund learnerships, there are other financial assistance options available.
Some employers offer funding or stipends for learners who are undergoing learnerships.
You can also explore other funding opportunities provided by SETAs or industry-related bodies.
Many learnership programmes may offer a stipend to cover living expenses while you gain work experience.
This stipend varies depending on the employer or SETA offering the learnership.
How Can You Apply for Funding for a Learnership?
While NSFAS doesn’t cover learnerships, you can still apply for financial support through other channels.
- Employer-Sponsored Stipends: Many employers offer financial assistance as part of the learnership programme. Check with the company or organization offering the learnership to see if they provide funding.
- SETAs: The Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) are government bodies that oversee skills development in South Africa. SETAs may offer funding or stipends for learners enrolled in their programmes.
- Bursaries and Scholarships: Some organizations provide bursaries or scholarships that can support learnerships, especially in certain industries like engineering, health, and IT.
- Skills Development Grants: Some industry organizations offer grants to learners, which can help cover the costs of the learnership.
What Other Support Does NSFAS Provide for Students in Learnerships?
While NSFAS does not directly fund learnerships, it does provide support for students who are enrolled in formal academic courses.
If you plan to pursue a degree or diploma alongside your learnership, you may be eligible for NSFAS funding for the academic component of your studies.
NSFAS funding could cover the cost of tuition, accommodation, and textbooks for the educational portion of your qualification.
You may also qualify for other financial aid programs through your employer or SETA to support the practical work-based learning component of your training.