Requirements for NSFAS

Introduction

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) provides financial assistance to eligible South African students studying at public universities and TVET colleges. This article outlines the NSFAS requirements, helping you understand what you need to qualify, what documents are required, and how to apply.

Who Qualifies Financially

To be considered for NSFAS funding, you must meet certain financial-need criteria:

You must be a South African citizen or permanent resident of South Africa. (NSFAS)
Your combined household gross income must not exceed R 350 000 per annum for typical applicants. (NSFAS)
For applicants with disabilities, the household income threshold is higher — up to R 600 000 per annum. (NSFAS)
You must be enrolling for a qualification that is approved by NSFAS and offered at a public higher education institution or public TVET college. (NSFAS)
You cannot already have completed an undergraduate qualification (in most cases) and then apply for another one. (NSFAS)

Academic & Study-Related Requirements

Besides financial eligibility, NSFAS sets academic and qualification-related criteria:

The qualification must be registered on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) and approved by the Council on Higher Education or relevant TVET authority. (NSFAS)
If you are a continuing student (i.e., already funded by NSFAS), you must meet progression criteria (e.g., pass a minimum percentage of your modules) in order to remain eligible. (NSFAS)
If you switch institutions or qualifications, you may need to re-apply or get special approval. (NSFAS)

Documents & Application Requirements

When you apply, have the following documents and information ready:

Your own ID or birth certificate. (Ekurhuleni East TVET College)
Copy of parent(s) or guardian’s ID (or spouse ID where applicable). (NSFAS)
Proof of household income (e.g., parents’/guardian’s salary details), unless exempt (for example if you receive a social grant). (finaid.mandela.ac.za)
Your own email address and cell phone number for registration and communication. (Ekurhuleni East TVET College)
If you are a person with a disability, a detailed medical report from a registered professional may be required. (NSFAS)
If you are a vulnerable child (for example orphaned, in child-headed household), additional forms like a “Vulnerable Child Declaration” may be needed. (NSFAS)

Key Conditions to Note

Here are some important conditions you must understand:

Meeting the eligibility requirements does not guarantee funding — funding is subject to budget availability and meeting all criteria. (NSFAS)
You may only receive funding for one qualification at one institution at a time. (NSFAS)
If you become financially ineligible (e.g., household income rises) or you fail to meet academic progression requirements, NSFAS may withdraw funding. (NSFAS)
The application period is limited — you must apply when the portal is open. (Government of South Africa)

How to Apply – Step-by-Step

Check that you meet the financial, academic and institution/qualification eligibility criteria.
Gather your required documents (as listed above).
Apply online at the official NSFAS portal when applications open. (Government of South Africa)
Choose up to three institutions (and up to three fields of study) when applying. (NSFAS)
Upload the documents as prompted and keep your contact details updated.
After submission, monitor your application status through the portal.
If selected and approved, ensure you maintain academic progression and comply with NSFAS terms to continue receiving funds.

Summary

The “NSFAS requirements” cover financial need, academic eligibility, approved qualification, and application documentation. If you qualify, and apply properly, you may receive support to help you study at a public university or TVET college in South Africa. Keep in mind that even if you meet all criteria, funding isn’t guaranteed — you must apply on time, upload correct documents, and maintain your performance.

Final Tip

Before you apply, check the latest official guidelines on the NSFAS website (as criteria may be updated yearly) and ensure your chosen qualification is listed as funded by NSFAS. This will improve your chances and reduce the risk of errors that could delay or reject your application.

NSFAS Requirements