NSFAS Qualifications

NSFAS Qualifications

Obtaining a higher education in South Africa can significantly transform your life. It opens up many new opportunities for your future. However, for many students, the cost of attending university or college is simply too high. This is where the National Student Financial Aid Scheme becomes very important. NSFAS is a government program that provides financial support to students who cannot afford their studies.

If you want to get help from NSFAS, there are certain rules you must follow. You need to meet the requirements set by NSFAS to be considered. These include things like being a South African citizen, coming from a household with a combined income below a certain amount, and planning to study at a public university or TVET college.

This guide will help you understand what NSFAS is all about and what you need to qualify for their support. If you meet all the conditions, you can apply for NSFAS funding and get the help you need to follow your dreams. With this support, many students who might have struggled to afford tuition, books, and accommodation can now focus on their studies without worrying about money.

Learn more: Which Qualifications Does NSFAS Fund 2026-2027

NSFAS Qualifications – Who Is Eligible?

If you are approved for NSFAS funding, you must first complete the academic admission requirements set by the university or TVET institution before NSFAS will provide you with any funds. Some general NSFAS Qualifications include;

All South African citizens
All SASSA grant recipients qualify for funding
Applicants whose combined household income is not more than R350,000 per annum
Person with disability: Combined household income must not be more than R600,000 per annum
Students who started studying before 2018, whose household income is not more than R122,000 per annum.

Who Does Not Qualify for NSFAS?

NSFAS does not provide funding to the following people:

Students who already qualify.
Students whose total household income is more than R350,000 per year.
Students who have already applied and been approved for NSFAS. They will continue to get funding as long as they pass their modules and meet the academic requirements.

Required Documents To Apply for NSFAS

Applying for NSFAS requires applicants to submit supporting documents. The following documents must be submitted to apply for NSFAS;

Copy of student ID / Birth certificate
Copy of parent/s or guardian/ spouse ID
Smart card: both sides of the card are 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 or an abridged birth certificate must complete the Declaration: Non-SASSA.

How To Apply For NSFAS

NSFAS Applications must be done online on the official website of the agency. Follow the steps below to apply for NSFAS;