A South African government student support programme designed to provide financial assistance to students from low-income households. It aims to help cover the costs of tuition, accommodation, books, and living expenses, ensuring that financial barriers do not limit access

NSFAS funding is a grant that does not require repayment and also includes additional allowances for personal care, travel, and meals, depending on the specific needs of the student. The programme is critical in promoting higher education inclusivity and accessibility, making it an essential pillar of support. 

 

NSFAS

Applying for Funding

Comprehensive financial aid overview

This section provides an in-depth guide to the financial aid options available at UCT, including eligibility criteria, priority placement, and the application process. Whether you're a first-time applicant or renewing your funding, this overview covers all the key steps and programmes designed to support students in need of financial assistance.

 

Undergrad Funding NSFAS Process Eligibility & Renewal Transfer Students How & Where to Apply

NSFAS & UCT Financial Assistance

Since August 2016, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has managed both new applications and renewal requests through its centralised student-centred model. While students may apply to multiple institutions for admission, only one financial aid application is needed through NSFAS.

All students requiring financial aid should apply to NSFAS via its online system. NSFAS offers a Bursary funding programme for students from households that earn less than R350 000 gross per annum. Additionally, NSFAS offers a Missing Middle Loan Funding Programme for students whose family income is between R350,001 and R600,000 annually; 70% of this funding is allocated to STEM programmes, with the remaining 30% for Humanities and non-STEM fields.

UCT provides GAP funding for students who exceeds the NSFAS 30% non-STEM requirement and the Sibling Rebate Bursary for students not qualifying for NSFAS. 

First-Time Applicants

Prospective first-year students should apply to NSFAS directly. Applications typically open in September and close before the university admission process is complete. Ensure you start early to gather the necessary documentation and submit your application on time.

Important: Do not wait for your academic admission results to apply for NSFAS, as the application period may close before admissions decisions are finalised.

Registered Students Already Funded by NSFAS

Your academic eligibility will be reviewed each year to determine whether you qualify for renewal. NSFAS also reserves the right to re-evaluate students continued financial eligibility. The MyNSFAS portal will provide your funding status updates.

Registered Students Applying for NSFAS for the First Time

If you are a current student not yet funded by NSFAS but foresee financial challenges, you can apply for NSFAS during the same application period as new students. Be sure to submit your application before the closing date.

Students must meet specific academic and financial criteria to remain eligible for NSFAS or UCT funding.

Academic Eligibility for Renewal

Your academic performance will be reviewed annually to determine whether you meet the renewal criteria for continued funding. If you fall short of the requirements, your funding may be discontinued.

For Students on a Gap Year

If you take a gap year, you must reapply to NSFAS during the normal application period. Appeals for funding after a gap year will not be considered.

Basic Eligibility Criteria

  • Must be a South African citizen or permanent resident.
  • Must be enrolled in an NSFAS-funded programme (Undergraduate only for the DHET Bursary).
  • Advanced Diplomas, Postgraduate diplomas and the PGCE are not funded by NSFAS, however the Missing Middle Loan Funding Programme will consider postgraduate programmes from NQF level 8 for funding within the NSFAS’ criteria. Please check the NSFAS website for further details.

NSFAS funding follows the N+1 rule, which means students are funded for the minimum duration of their programme plus one additional year. This rule also applies when transferring between institutions.

Students transferring to UCT must ensure they have enough funding years left to complete their degree at UCT. If you lose funding because you exceed this limit, no appeal will be considered.

All prior years of study at any tertiary institution are counted towards the N+1 rule, regardless of how those years were funded.

Late Applications

Late applications will not be considered, and it is crucial to apply before the deadline. NSFAS does not fund late applications made in the TVET window.

Visit the NSFAS website and register on the MyNSFAS portal to complete your application. Upon submission, you will receive an application reference number, which confirms your submission. If no reference number is received, your application has not been successfully submitted.

NSFAS Online Application

NSFAS Contact Details

If you require assistance, contact NSFAS via:

Keep a record of your application and supporting documents, and regularly check your email for updates from NSFAS or UCT. Remember, your application is not complete until you receive a reference number.