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The National Student Financial Aid Scheme NSFAS 2025 application are open and is a South African government student financial aid scheme which provides financial assistance to undergraduate students to help pay for the cost of their tertiary education after finishing high school. NSFAS is funded by the Department of Higher Education and Training.

NSFAS provides comprehensive bursaries to South African students who plan to study at public universities and TVET colleges. The bursary covers tuition fees, accommodation, transport, and living expenses.

Students benefiting from NSFAS funding

Students benefiting from NSFAS funding

Since its establishment in 1999, NSFAS has helped over 4 million students access higher education. In 2024 alone, NSFAS funded more than 900,000 students across 26 public universities and 50 TVET colleges.

Our Mission

To provide financial aid to eligible students from poor and working-class families in a sustainable manner that promotes access to, and success in, higher and further education and training, in pursuit of South Africa’s national and human resource development goals.

Funding Coverage

NSFAS provides comprehensive bursaries to eligible students covering all essential costs associated with tertiary education: Check out the University of South Africa for more information and details.

NSFAS students at graduation ceremonyNSFAS students at graduation ceremony

Tuition Fees

Full coverage of all tuition and registration fees at public institutions.

Accommodation

Coverage for university residence or private accommodation costs.

Living Allowance

Monthly allowance for food and personal expenses.

Transport

Transport allowance for students not staying in residence.

Learning Materials

Funding for books, stationery and other learning materials.

Personal Care

Annual personal care allowance for all students.

Funding Requirements

To maintain your NSFAS funding, you must:

  • Pass at least 50% of your registered modules each academic year
  • Pass at least 60% of your modules to qualify for continued funding
  • Adhere to your institution’s academic policies
  • Update your personal details if they change
  • Sign your bursary agreement within the specified timeframe