Unlocking Higher Education: How to Qualify and Apply for South Africa’s NSFAS Bursary Scheme in 2025

Sandeep Nain
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For thousands of students across South Africa, the dream of a higher education can seem financially impossible. However, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has been a game-changer in making tertiary education accessible to low-income and working-class families. Funded by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), the scheme aims to ensure that finances do not prevent academically capable students from achieving their goals.

NSFAS has evolved from a loan-based system to a full bursary model, which means successful applicants no longer need to repay the funds—provided they comply with set academic and service-based conditions. This transformation reflects the government’s commitment to nurturing youth potential and investing in the country’s future workforce. With full coverage of university or TVET college costs, the bursary removes one of the biggest barriers to higher education.

If you’re a South African student looking to start or continue your studies in 2025, understanding the eligibility criteria, benefits, application steps, and responsibilities is essential. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of how the NSFAS bursary works, who qualifies, what it covers, and how you can apply to take advantage of this life-changing opportunity.

What is the NSFAS Bursary Scheme?

The NSFAS bursary is a government-funded financial support system that pays for the full cost of studying at public universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges. The bursary covers a wide range of expenses including tuition, accommodation, meals, transport, and study materials. Unlike a loan, this financial assistance does not have to be repaid, provided students follow the rules and complete their studies within the allotted time.

Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply in 2025?

You may apply for NSFAS if you meet any of the following conditions:

  • You are a South African citizen.
  • You receive a SASSA grant.
  • Your combined household income is R350,000 or less per year.
  • If you have a disability, your household income can be up to R600,000.
  • Students who started before 2018 are eligible if their income is under R122,000 annually.

Who Is Not Eligible?

You cannot apply if:

  • You already have a qualification from a tertiary institution.
  • Your household income is above R350,000 per year (R600,000 if disabled).
  • You are currently funded by NSFAS and still meet academic requirements—reapplication is not necessary.

Comprehensive Benefits of the NSFAS Bursary

For University Students

  • Tuition Fees: Fully paid as per university charge.
  • Accommodation: Covered up to the institutional cap.
  • Living Allowance: R15,000 annually.
  • Transport: Up to R7,500 if within 40 km of the institution.
  • Learning Materials: R5,200 per year.
  • Incidental Allowance: R2,900 for those in catered residences.

For TVET College Students

  • Urban Area Accommodation: R24,000 per year.
  • Peri-Urban Area: R18,900 per year.
  • Rural Area: R15,750 per year.
  • Transport Within 40 km: R7,350.
  • Other Transport: R7,000 per year.
  • Incidental Allowance: R2,900 annually.

Duration of Funding

NSFAS supports students for the full duration of their program plus an additional year, often referred to as the “N+1” rule. For instance, if your program is three years long, you can be funded for up to four years.

Rules and Academic Responsibilities

After being approved, students must adhere to the following:

  • Maintain at least a 50% pass rate each academic year.
  • Complete studies within the allowed timeframe (N+1).
  • Not be a recipient of another full bursary.
  • Sign the NSFAS Bursary Agreement (NBA).
  • Complete 80 hours of community service or work-based training each year from the second academic year onward.

Universities or colleges are also responsible for submitting student progress reports to NSFAS.

How to Apply

  1. Go to the official NSFAS website.
  2. Register for a myNSFAS account.
  3. Fill out your personal, academic, and household income details.
  4. Upload all the required documents.
  5. Submit your completed application online.

Alternatively, you can apply through National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) centers or your college/university’s Financial Aid Office.

Required Documents

  • Your certified South African ID copy.
  • ID copies of parents or guardians.
  • Proof of income for each household member.
  • SASSA letter (if applicable).
  • Academic records and official admission letter.

What Happens After You Apply?

After submission, NSFAS reviews your application. You’ll receive notifications on your myNSFAS portal about the status. If approved, you’ll need to sign a Bursary Agreement before funds are disbursed. Once signed, you’re officially funded, and tuition and allowances will be processed.

Important Reminders:

  • No upfront payments are required once approved.
  • Use your bursary responsibly—especially your living and transport allowances.
  • Notify NSFAS if you change your course or institution.
  • You cannot receive NSFAS funding for more than one qualification simultaneously.

Contact and Support Information

If you need assistance with your NSFAS application or have questions about your funding status, you can reach out via the following:

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