The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is preparing to request additional funding from the government to ensure that every qualifying student receives financial support for their education in 2025.
With nearly one million applications submitted for 2025, NSFAS faces a significant funding challenge. Of the 969,000 applications received, approximately 60% have been provisionally approved. These students will begin receiving funding once they register at higher education institutions.
NSFAS offers financial aid, covering tuition fees, registration costs, and allowances for food, accommodation, and learning materials. However, the sharp rise in applications has pressured the scheme’s budget.
NSFAS Administrator Freeman Nomvalo confirmed that if the number of deserving students exceeds the current funding capacity, the organization will request additional resources from the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and Treasury.
“We believe we have sufficient funds to support the projected numbers. However, if the numbers go beyond our capacity, we will approach the government to secure funding so every eligible student is covered,” Nomvalo stated.
The Parliamentary Committee on Higher Education recently urged NSFAS to ensure no qualifying student is left without funding. However, Nomvalo highlighted another critical issue—institutions may be unable to accommodate all applicants. Despite NSFAS’s efforts, universities and TVET colleges cannot admit every prospective student due to space limitations.
In addition to low-income students’ funding, NSFAS will support missing-middle students through its loan program. NSFAS received over 19,000 applications for this category and is finalizing the list of recipients to inform their respective institutions.
Students Must Upload Documents to Finalize Applications
NSFAS has reminded applicants to upload all requested documents within 30 days of the request to complete their applications. Failure to meet this deadline will render the application invalid.
“We urge all applicants who have not yet submitted their outstanding documents to do so urgently,” NSFAS advised.
This critical step ensures that funding is allocated correctly and efficiently. Students should act quickly to secure their 2025 funding and take advantage of the opportunities NSFAS provides.