NSFAS has made changes to their application process for 2021 because of the current pandemic. You can now give consent online by clicking the box to accept the terms and conditions. Usually, you would have needed to include a consent form with your application.
You must have permission from your family to submit their personal information before completing your application. Once you accept the application terms and conditions, you confirm that you have received consent from all relevant parties.
New applicants need a copy of their ID or birth certificate to register and create a profile on the myNSFAS portal. Applicants with existing accounts need to log into their accounts because you’re only allowed to create one profile.
Another change NSFAS has made is that you don't to have your documents certified. This way, they are minimising any contact you would need to have with the outside world.
The NSFAS system validates all information when received from the Department of Home Affairs. It is then important that you type in your ID number, name/s and surname exactly as they appear on your ID document/birth certificate that you got from the Department of Home Affairs.
If your parents/guardian is an informal trader and you are not sure what proof of income you need to upload, you will need to give an affidavit by your parent/guardian as proof. Your parents/guardian income will then be verified by 3rd party agencies.
If you are currently funded by NSFAS, you do not need to apply for 2021 funding. Once you are approved for NSFAS funding, the funding covers you until you complete your qualification provided you continue to meet the academic criteria. You just need to focus on studying and passing your modules to secure your continued funding.
If you were approved for 2020 funding, but never registered for the academic year, you will need to apply to receive 2021 NSFAS funding. Remember to apply online before the close of the application period.
Students with disabilities are encouraged to apply for financial assistance. NSFAS provides special disability funding to all approved students with disabilities at any public university or TVET college in South Africa. The applicant’s household income must not exceed R600 000 per year.
"While great work for 2021 application cycle is underway, I want to reassure our current beneficiaries that the department, along with NSFAS, is working tirelessly ensuring that the 2020 academic year is saved and concluded to usher in the new academic year," said Minister Nzimande.
NSFAS applications for 2021 are now open and will close on 30 November so apply now for funding and let NSFAS take care of all your financial stress and you won't have to worry about paying for your fees and you can just focus on your studies.
You can download the NSFAS 2021 application information brochure here and don't be shy to share it with your community.
