How Many Years Does NSFAS Fund A Student

How Many Years Does NSFAS Fund A Student

Generally, NSFAS provides funding for the minimum prescribed duration of a qualification, plus an additional year (known as the “plus-one” rule). This means that if a student is enrolled in a three-year undergraduate degree program, NSFAS will typically fund them for four years. The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is an urgent resource for South African students seeking financial assistance for higher education. While NSFAS provides funding for tuition, accommodation, and other study-related expenses, many students wonder how long they can rely on this financial support. Understanding the duration of NSFAS funding is essential for academic planning and progress. In this article, we will explore how many years NSFAS funds a student, including the rules that determine the length of funding and the factors that may affect it.

READ: How Long Does NSFAS Fund A 3-Year Course?

NSFAS Fund Eligibility Criteria

Students have to meet specific eligibility and progress requirements to continue receiving NSFAS support during their degree program. These criteria might include maintaining good academic performance, passing a particular number of modules each year, and completing the degree within a fair timeline. The common requirements for NSFAS funding include;

Applicants Must be a South African citizen / permanent resident
Combined gross household income should not exceed R350 000 per annum
Combined gross household income (persons living with disabilities) should not exceed R600 000 per annum
SASSA recipients automatically qualify for financial eligibility
Must have email and cell phone number.

Required Documents For NSFAS Funding

Before applying for NSFAS funding, all applicants must put together and submit supporting documents. The following documents are required;

Copy of student ID / Birth certificate
Copy of parent/s or guardian/ spouse ID
Smart card: both sides of the card required
Proof of income (where applicable)
Persons living with disability (Disability Annexure A form)
An applicant who is recognised as a vulnerable child by the Department of Social Development must provide a completed Vulnerable Child Declaration form completed by a social worker
An applicant who has indicated that s/he has no family member details and or abridged birth certificate must complete the Declaration: Non-SASSA.

NSFAS Funding Application Procedure

Application for funding from NSFAS is done online on the official website of NSFAS. The online application procedure is simply straightforward. To apply follow the detailed steps below;

Step 1: Go to www.nsfas.org.za and click on the ‘myNSFAS’ tab.
Step 2: Create a myNSFAS account
Step 3: Click on the ‘APPLY’ tab and complete the sections on the screen
Step 4: Upload required supporting documents where applicable
Step 5: Click on ‘Submit’.

Who Can Appeal For NSFAS Funding?

An appeal is a request that a decision not to fund a student who applied for NSFAS funding be reconsidered. If a student’s financial aid application is denied or financial aid for a continuing student is removed, he or she may file an appeal with the NSFAS.

The appeal decisions are subject to budget availability.
Appeals will only be considered for students who have applied to NSFAS for Financial Aid.

READ: What Is The 55% Rule For NSFAS?

Contact NSFAS

NSFAS Virtual Contact Centre

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

NSFAS funds South African students for the duration of their undergraduate degree program, which is typically three to four years. Students must achieve strict eligibility and advancement requirements throughout their academic career to keep NSFAS support. NSFAS is an important source of aid for people seeking financial assistance to pursue higher education in South Africa. Visit the official website of NSFAS for more information.

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