Can NSFAS Fund My Second Degree

Can NSFAS Fund My Second Degree

NSFAS is a South African government project that gives financial help to qualified students pursuing higher education. It primarily provides loans and bursaries to undergraduate students in South Africa to finance tuition, housing, and study materials. But can NSFAS fund your second degree?

Since NSFAS primarily funds undergraduate degrees for first-time students, it can be difficult to get NSFAS funding for a second degree if you have already earned one. Despite its primary focus on undergraduate studies, NSFAS also offers choices for those pursuing a postgraduate degree or a second undergraduate degree.

NSFAS considers your academic performance from your first degree when determining whether to offer you a loan for a second degree. You must fulfill the minimal academic criteria to be eligible.

READ: How Many Years Does NSFAS Fund A Student

 Eligibility Requirements For NSFAS Application

To be eligible for NSFAS, you must meet the below criteria;

• All South African citizens
• All SASSA grant recipients qualify for funding
• Applicants whose combined household income is not more than R350 000 per annum
• A person with a disability: Combined household income must not be more than R600 000 per annum
• SASSA recipients automatically qualify for funding and need not submit any proof of income.

How to Get NSFAS Funding for a Second Degree:

NSFAS may consider you for your second degree depending on the following points;

• Previous NSFAS support: If you obtained support for your first degree, you can apply for additional funding for your second degree. However, the overall amount of funds you may obtain from NSFAS is limited, so satisfy their criteria.
• Academic achievement: When determining your eligibility for a second-degree loan, NSFAS analyzes your academic achievement in your prior degree. To qualify, you must meet the minimal academic criteria.
• Financial Eligibility: As with the first degree, your financial condition will be evaluated to see if you fit the criteria for support. This involves taking into account your family’s income as well as other financial conditions.

Documents To Apply For NSFAS

All applicants must provide;

• Valid South African ID number of Applicant
• Valid South African ID number of parent(s), guardian, or spouse
• Income information where applicable.
• Students with disabilities must provide: A completed and signed Disability Annexure A Form (available on the website)
• Students recognized as vulnerable children must provide:
• Students who have indicated no family members’ details must complete the 2025 Declaration Form (available on the website)

Other documents that may be required for appeals purposes:

• Retrenchment letter,
• Death certificate/s
• Proof of legal guardianship
• Marriage certificate

READ: NSFAS My Status

How To Apply For NSFAS

Follow the step-by-step guide below to apply online for NSFAS;

• Go to www.nsfas.org.za and click on the ‘myNSFAS’ tab.
• Create a myNSFAS account
• Click on the ‘APPLY’ tab and complete the sections on the screen
• Upload required supporting documents where applicable
• Click on ‘Submit’.

Contact NSFAS

Email: info@nsfas.org.za
Facebook: National Student Financial Aid Scheme
Twitter: @myNSFAS
Instagram: @myNSFAS
WhatsApp: +27 78 519 8006
USSD:*120*67327#

NSFAS can support your second degree in South Africa if you match their eligibility criteria and meticulously complete the application process. Visit the official website of NSFAS for more information.

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