Can I Apply for NSFAS Before Applying at University?
Can I apply for NSFAS before applying to university? It is the most commonly asked question by fresh students. Well, you apply for NSFAS after carefully analyzing the academic requirements of your chosen university and TVET college.
Once the NSFAS scheme is approved, you must first meet the requirements of the institution you are in. After this, the Department will be able to give you any funds.
How Does NSFAS Work?
For fresher’s explanation, NSFAS subsidizes public-sector universities and TVET colleges for students who meet the eligibility criteria set by the DHET. The scheme receives money from previous students (who are repaying the funding) and grants it to prospective and fresh students.
The application starts with getting admission into a listed course and institute under the scheme. However, admission into a listed institution is not it, and you are also required to fulfill the requirements set by the NSFAS.
Who Qualifies for NSFAS Funding?
The NSFAS or National Student Financial Aid Scheme targets students from low-income backgrounds with higher academic achievements. These students must not be able to attend university and must prove their requirement for financial assistance. Here are the primary criteria for NSFAS to select students.
- The applicant must have a combined household of less than R350,000 per year.
- The applicant must be a South African citizen.
- The applicant must have passed Grade 12.
- The applicant must be an SASSA grant recipient, or their parents must be an SASSA grant recipient.
- The applicant must be studying or plan to study at a public university or TVET college.
The NSFAS process can be a bit challenging, especially because it requires submitting the application to two different portals. I hope this guide answers all your queries regarding the NSFAS application.