If you’re considering deregistering from your current academic program or have already deregistered, you may be wondering whether the National Student Financial Aid Scheme will still fund you.
NSFAS is designed to help South African students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds to afford their higher education.
However, there are specific guidelines and conditions regarding funding if you choose to deregister from your studies.
What Happens When You Deregister From Your Studies?
Deregistration refers to the process where a student officially withdraws from a university or college for the current academic year.
This can happen for various reasons, including financial difficulties, personal circumstances, or academic challenges.
Deregistering means you are no longer enrolled in your course or program for the semester or year, which can have significant consequences on your NSFAS funding.
Will NSFAS Fund Me if I Deregister?
The short answer is no—NSFAS typically does not fund students who have deregistered.
Funding from NSFAS is tied to your active enrollment in an accredited higher education institution.
If you deregister, your status as an eligible student is affected, and this can lead to the cessation of your financial aid.
Why Won’t NSFAS Fund Me if I Deregister?
There are several reasons why NSFAS stops funding when a student deregisters:
- Active Enrollment Requirement
NSFAS provides financial aid to students who are actively enrolled in an accredited institution. If you deregister, you no longer meet this requirement, meaning NSFAS has no obligation to continue funding you. - Completion of Studies
The main purpose of NSFAS is to help students complete their studies. If you deregister, it implies that you are not proceeding with your studies, thus eliminating the purpose of receiving financial aid. - Funding for Registered Courses
When NSFAS funds a student, it is based on the specific course or program they are registered for. If you are not registered, NSFAS cannot provide funding for that course.
What if I Deregister and Want to Reapply for NSFAS Funding?
If you deregister and decide to continue with your studies later on, you may be eligible to reapply for NSFAS funding.
However, reapplying after deregistration depends on several factors:
- Re-registration at the Institution
You will need to re-register at your institution before NSFAS can reconsider your funding. You will be treated as a new applicant if you are returning to study after deregistration. - NSFAS Eligibility Requirements
You must meet all of the eligibility criteria for NSFAS, including academic performance, financial need, and compliance with the NSFAS rules. If you have already received funding for a certain number of years, there may be limits on how long you can be funded. - Academic Progression
You may need to demonstrate academic progress in your previous years of study. If you were deregistered due to academic reasons, you might need to show that you have addressed any issues before NSFAS can fund you again.
Can I Apply for NSFAS if I Deregister Temporarily?
If you deregister for a short time and plan to resume your studies in the next semester or academic year, you may be able to maintain your NSFAS funding.
However, you must inform your institution and NSFAS of your temporary break and provide valid reasons for it.
In many cases, NSFAS may continue to fund you, provided you re-enroll in the same course or program after your break.
What Should I Do if I Am Considering Deregistering?
If you’re considering deregistering, it’s important to weigh all your options carefully.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Contact Your Institution’s Financial Aid Office
Speak to the financial aid office at your institution to understand the impact of deregistration on your NSFAS funding. They can provide you with more specific advice based on your individual circumstances. - Explore Other Financial Options
If you face financial issues that are leading to deregistration, ask your institution about other funding options. You may be able to apply for emergency funding, bursaries, or loans to continue your studies. - Look for Support Services
Many universities offer student support services to assist with personal or academic challenges. Reaching out for help can prevent the need for deregistration and loss of funding.