Are 2024 NSFAS Applications Open?

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has released a statement which notifies students that NSFAS funding applications for the 2024 academic year are not open yet. These false messages have been circulating on social media. 

Applicants are encouraged to check official NSFAS platforms for the 2024 application opening date. Students are urged to be aware of fake websites and social media platforms advising students to share their personal details and apply for funding via links. 

NSFAS is tasked with providing financial aid to students to attend tertiary education. NSFAS bursaries have become a lifesaver to many. 

Before applying students need to ensure that they meet the bursary admission criteria. Here are the NSFAS bursary admission criteria:

• A South African citizen.
• Financially needy as determined by the NSFAS means test.
• Academically deserving and can demonstrate the ability to succeed in your studies.
• If you have applied or are applying to study at a public university or TVET College for a qualification.
• You need to have passed Grade 09/10/11/12 to receive NSFAS funding to study at a TVET College.
• You need to have passed Grade 12 to receive NSFAS funding to study at a university.
• All applicants currently receiving SASSA grants will not be means tested.

Students interested in applying for the bursary may visit the NSFAS website to get started. Applicants will first need to register and create a myNSFAS account which will serve as a way to check their application status and funding throughout the year. 

How To Submit Your NSFAS Online Application

1. Create a myNsfas account.
   • If you have an existing myNsfas account, click on 'login' when going to myNsfas and complete your information.
   • If you don't have a myNsfas account, click on 'Create account.'
2. Log into your myNsfas account.
3. Click on 'Apply'.
4. Answer the questions on the screen.
5. Upload the required supporting documents.
6. Click on 'Submit'.
7. You will then receive an application reference number.

Successful NSFAS applicants are awarded a bursary that covers their tuition fees and a number of allowances to cover monthly expenses. These allowances cover transport, learning devices or textbooks, food and accommodation.