{"id":1643,"date":"2026-12-10T07:00:00","date_gmt":"2026-12-10T07:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.zansfas.co.za\/?page_id=1643"},"modified":"2026-12-10T07:00:00","modified_gmt":"2026-12-10T07:00:00","slug":"does-nsfas-fund-a-second-degree","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.zapage.co.za\/nsfas\/does-nsfas-fund-a-second-degree\/","title":{"rendered":"Does NSFAS fund a second degree?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

NSFAS is a government initiative in South Africa that provides financial assistance to eligible students who cannot afford to pay for their tertiary education. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

It covers a wide range of expenses, including tuition fees, accommodation, food, and books. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, NSFAS funding is generally aimed at first-time university students or those pursuing their first qualifications. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Understanding whether you can access NSFAS funding for a second degree depends on several factors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Does NSFAS Fund a Second Degree?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

NSFAS typically funds undergraduate students who are pursuing their first degree.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the funding guidelines do allow for a second degree under specific circumstances. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Generally, NSFAS funding<\/a> for a second degree is available only if the student is pursuing an undergraduate qualification at a public university or TVET college, and there are certain conditions attached.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When is NSFAS Available for a Second Degree?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Here are the main scenarios where NSFAS may fund a second degree:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    \n
  1. If You\u2019re Enrolling for a New Undergraduate Qualification: If your first degree does not lead directly to employment or professional qualifications, you might be eligible for a second degree if you meet the general NSFAS requirements.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  2. If the Second Degree is in a Priority Field: NSFAS tends to prioritize certain fields of study that are in high demand, such as science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), healthcare, and teaching. If you are pursuing a second degree in one of these fields, there is a higher chance of securing funding.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  3. If You Meet All NSFAS Criteria: You must meet the general eligibility requirements, such as being a South African citizen and coming from a household with a combined annual income below the set threshold.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

    What are the Eligibility Criteria for a Second Degree?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

    To be eligible for NSFAS funding for a second degree, you must meet the following requirements:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      \n
    1. South African Citizen: You must be a South African citizen to qualify for NSFAS funding.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    2. Household Income: Your household income must fall below the annual threshold set by NSFAS. This threshold is updated annually, so you should verify the current amount for the relevant year.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    3. Enrollment at a Public Institution: You must be enrolled at a public university or TVET college that is registered with NSFAS. Private institutions are not covered by NSFAS funding.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    4. Academic Progress: You must have a good academic record and meet the minimum academic progress standards set by your institution.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    5. First Undergraduate Qualification: The second qualification must be a full-time undergraduate degree or diploma. If you are pursuing postgraduate studies, NSFAS typically does not cover those costs.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

      How to Apply for NSFAS Funding for a Second Degree?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

      The application process for NSFAS funding remains the same whether you are applying for your first or second degree. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Here\u2019s what you need to do:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        \n
      1. Complete the Application: Visit the official NSFAS website <\/a>and fill out the online application form.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      2. Submit Required Documents: You will need to provide supporting documents, including your ID, proof of income, and academic records.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      3. Wait for Approval: Once you submit your application, NSFAS will assess your eligibility based on the provided documents.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      4. Check Your Status: You can track the progress of your application via the NSFAS website. Once your application is approved, you will receive notification of your funding status.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

        Are There Any Limitations for Second Degree Funding?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

        While NSFAS can fund a second degree in certain cases, there are some limitations and restrictions:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

          \n
        1. No Postgraduate Funding: NSFAS does not cover postgraduate qualifications, such as Honours, Master\u2019s, or Doctorate degrees.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        2. Limited Number of Years for Funding: NSFAS has a cap on the number of years a student can receive funding. For most students, funding is available for a maximum of four years for an undergraduate qualification.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        3. Field of Study Matters: If the second degree you are pursuing does not align with priority fields, it might be more challenging to secure funding.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

          <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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