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Is Nsfas a Bursary or Loan

Is Nsfas a Bursary or Loan

NSFAS is a bursary scheme funded by the Department of Higher Education and Training for those who do not have the financial means to fund their studies and cannot access bank funding, study loans or bursaries.

Apply online(link is external). Applications open for a limited time at the end of each year. Should you require assistance, call the toll-free number 08000 67327 or visit your nearest NYDA office(link is external).

Note:

NSFAS financial support previously was in the form of loans and still needs to be paid back when you find employment after completion of your studies. If you passed all your subjects, 40% of the NSFAS funding for that particular year/semester was converted into a bursary. This means you will only pay back 60% of the loan when you start working.

For more information contact: National Student Financial Aid Scheme(link is external).

Required Supporting Documents: NSFAS Online Applications Form 2023

• Applicants must provide an ID document/card or birth certificate
• Applicants must provide the ID of parents/ guardian/ spouse (or death certificate where applicable)
• Proof of income of applicants (if applicable and should not be older than 3 months)
• Your Parents/ guardian/ spouse pay advice/ letter of employment/ pension advice stating income (if applicable and must not be older than 3 months. NSFAS Online Application 2023
• Vulnerable children should have a completed and signed Vulnerable Child Declaration Form.
• Applicants with a disability must provide a Disability Annexure A Form (Downloadable on the website)
• SASSA slips are not required and SASSA should not be included as a household income.