Are you enrolled in or considering attending a public university or TVET college and belong to a family with an annual income of R350,000 or less? If so, take a moment to discover an opportunity that could make a significant difference in your educational journey:

You are eligible for a government bursary through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).

Understanding NSFAS: NSFAS, established under the Department of Higher Education and Training, operates in accordance with the NSFAS Act (Act 56 of 1999). Its primary purpose is to extend financial support to underprivileged students pursuing further education at public universities or TVET colleges.

What the bursary covers: The amounts specified for accommodation, living allowance, transport, and learning materials must adhere to the latest approved DHET guidelines.

For University Students:

• Accommodation: Based on actual university costs (private accommodation costs should not surpass those of university residences)
• Transport (up to 40 km from the institution): R7,500 per annum
• Living allowance: R15,000 per annum
• Book allowances: R5,200 per annum
• Incidental/personal care allowance (for students in catered residences): R2,900 per annum

For TVET Students:

• Accommodation in an urban area: R24,000 per annum
• Accommodation in a peri-urban area: R18,900 per annum
• Accommodation in a rural area: R15,750 per annum
• Transport (up to 40 km from the institution): R7,350 per annum
• Transport: R7,000 per annum
• Incidental/personal care allowance: R2,900 per annum

Who qualifies for NSFAS funding?

• All South African citizens
• All SASSA grant recipients qualify for funding
• Applicants with a combined household income not exceeding R350,000 per annum
• Persons with disabilities: Combined household income must not exceed R600,000 per annum
• Students who commenced studies before 2018, with a household income not exceeding R122,000 per annum

Who should not apply for NSFAS Funding?

• Students who have completed a previous qualification
• Students with a combined household income exceeding R350,000 per annum
• Students who have already applied, qualified, and received funding. They will automatically receive funding for the duration of their studies, provided they meet academic requirements and pass their modules.