The National Student Financial Aid Scheme is a government bursary that is available to underprivileged South African students who are looking to study at a public university or TVET College.
Funding to students varies from place to place, Wits in particular has its own NSFAS rules and guidelines.
First-time NSFAS students receive the following capped amounts while studying at Wits:
- A stipend of R15 000 per year during their undergraduate degree.
- A transport allowance of R7 500 is provided to students who have to travel to Campus.
- Book allowance of R5 200 to cover the cost of textbooks and stationery.
- Living allowance of R2 900 per annum.
- Accommodation fees of up to R42 000 per year.
Please note that you will have to fill out the allowance forms in order to receive them and you will need a student bank account.
Returning students who registered at Wits University or any other university during 2017 or before that will not receive full funding from NSFAS. However, they will receive no more than R93 400.
The amount will first cover tuition fees then the student may decide how to use the balance. It may be used on textbooks, stationery, living expenses or transport.
Returning students who are still within their NSFAS cap may apply for allowances through the FASO office. These allowances include:
- Students who are living at a self-catering residence may apply for the stipend of R15 000 per annum.
- Students who live at home may apply for a transport allowance of R7 500 and a living allowance of R15 000 per year.
- Book allowance of up to R5 200 per year.
- A living allowance of up to R2 900 per annum.
With regards to NSFAS covering the costs of accommodation, students need to keep in mind that the bursary only funds Wits accredited accommodation.
Visit the NSFAS website for more information.
