NSFAS is the government bursary scheme for students at South Africa’s public universities and public TVET colleges. It is the largest single source of student funding in the country, and for most school leavers from lower income households it is the first place to apply.
NSFAS is a bursary rather than a loan for qualifying students, which means it does not have to be paid back if you meet the academic requirements each year. You apply directly to NSFAS, separately from your application to the institution itself, and you should do both.
What you will need
A copy of your ID, your parents’ or guardian’s ID, proof of household income, and your latest school results. Applicants with a disability and students who are orphans have additional forms to complete.
Application windows change each year. Confirm the current dates on the NSFAS website before you rely on them.