Students seeking government funding will only qualify under the following conditions. The National Student Financial Aid Scheme was created to provide funds for deserving and qualifying students who want to pursue a higher education. However NSFAS has a strict policy in terms of who they will fund and when. If you are not sure whether NSFAS will support you, read through this list of questions asked by first time applicants.
Can I study at a private institution?
Only students who are accepted at a public university or TVET college are eligible to receive funding.
Can I be funded for two courses in the same year?
A student can only be funded for one qualification at one institution at any one time.
Can I receiving funding if I want to enrol for a second qualification?
Students who have already studied at a university or obtained a prior university qualification will not qualify for funding even if they are entering the first year of a new programme. However students starting a university qualification for the first time, but who have already achieved a TVET qualification may qualify as a university FTEN student.
Does NSFAS fund short courses?
Only courses that are part of or a requirement for a whole qualification will be funded. Occasional or stand alone programmes are not included in the funding scope.
What happens if you fail a few subjects or modules?
According to the NSFAS policy agreement students must pass at least 50% of their modules as well as meet the academic requirements of their institution in order to continue receiving financial aid during the course of their study period.
What is the policy on class attendance?
Students need to have a minimum of 80% class attendance. If you want to know more about the policies surrounding higher education institutions and academic requirements for funding visit the NSFAS website http://www.nsfas.org.za/content/bursary-scheme.html
