Millions of South Africans rely on SASSA grants, and some of these beneficiaries are eligible for funding from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).
NSFAS offers financial aid to students at universities and TVET colleges. Funding includes:
- Tuition and registration fees.
- Allowances for accommodation, food, and learning materials.
NSFAS explained that any university or TVET College student who benefits from a Sassa grant will automatically qualify for the NSFAS bursary as they meet the financial eligibility criteria.
To be eligible for an NSFAS bursary, a student must have a household income of less than R350,000. Sassa grant beneficiaries automatically meet this requirement.
If you’re a SASSA grant recipient, NSFAS provides automatic eligibility for financial aid based on your income status.
Do I Qualify for NSFAS Funding Whiles on SASSA Grant?
You qualify for NSFAS if:
- You receive a SASSA grant. Beneficiaries of Foster Care, Care Dependency, or Child Support grants automatically meet the financial criteria.
- Your household income is below R350,000 annually. SASSA recipients automatically fall within this range.
However, financial eligibility alone isn’t enough—you must also meet academic requirements.
NSFAS Funding as a SASSA Grant Beneficiary
Meet the Academic Requirements
NSFAS requires students to show satisfactory academic performance:
- University students: Achieve a pass rate of at least 60% in your courses.
- TVET College students:
- Pass five subjects in the previous NC(V) level.
- Pass at least three subjects in the last N-Level.
- Meet the progression criteria set by your college for occupational courses.
You may lose eligibility if you exceed the “N+Rule” (years of study allowed for your program).
Enrol in an Approved Program
To receive NSFAS funding, you must:
- Be registered at a university or TVET college.
- Study in an NSFAS-approved course.
Your funding starts after your institution confirms your registration.
Apply for NSFAS Funding
Follow these steps to apply for NSFAS:
- Visit the NSFAS website at www.nsfas.org.za.
- Create an account or log in if you already have one.
- Complete the application form.
- Upload the required documents, including proof of your SASSA grant.
Applications typically open in the last quarter of the year. Keep an eye on NSFAS announcements for deadlines.
Confirm Your SASSA Grant Eligibility
NSFAS verifies your SASSA status during the application process. Ensure you’re receiving one of the eligible grants:
- Foster Care Grant.
- Care Dependency Grant.
- Child Support Grant.
Track of Your Funding Status
After applying, monitor your application status on the NSFAS website. If approved, your funding will only start once your registration at the institution is finalized.