What Does NSFAS Bursary Cover

What Does NSFAS Bursary Cover

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government program in South Africa that helps students who cannot afford the costs of university or college. Its main aim is to make higher education more accessible to students from poor and working-class families. NSFAS provides funding in the form of bursaries, which students do not need to repay if they meet all the academic and financial requirements.

NSFAS does not only pay for tuition fees. It also helps students with other important costs, such as accommodation, meals, learning materials, and transport. This kind of support allows students to focus on their studies without constantly worrying about money. The NSFAS bursary is available to students studying at public universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges.

If you qualify, the bursary will cover most of the expenses needed to complete your education. This support plays a big role in improving the lives of many young South Africans by giving them the chance to build a better future through education. Students need to know what NSFAS offers and how to apply. Understanding the benefits and requirements of the bursary will help you make the most of this opportunity if you are planning to study at a public institution in South Africa.

Learn more: NSFAS Bursary Requirements 2026-2027

What Does NSFAS Bursary Cover for 2026

The NSFAS bursary is intended to cover a variety of higher education costs. The amounts mentioned for accommodation, living allowance, transportation, and learning materials must be consistent with the most recent DHET rules. The NSFAS bursary covers the following;

UNIVERSITY

Accommodation: As per the actual costs charged by the university (costs for private accommodation must not exceed costs for university residence)
Transport (up to 40 km from the institution) R7 500 per annum
Living allowance R15, 000 per annum
Book allowances R5200 per annum
Incidental/personal care allowance of R2900 per annum for students in catered residences

What Does NSFAS Bursary Cover

TVET

Accommodation in an urban area is R24,000 per annum
Accommodation in a peri-urban area R18,900 per annum
Accommodation in a rural area is R15,750 per annum
Transport (up to 40 km from the institution) R7,350 per annum
Transport R7000 per annum
Incidental/personal care allowance R2900 per annum.

Documents To Apply For NSFAS Bursary

All NSFAS Applicants must upload and attach the following documents to their completed applications;

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 and or abridged birth certificate must complete the Declaration: Non-SASSA.

Learn more: NSFAS Bursary Application Form 2026 PDF

Apply for NSFAS Bursary 2026

Follow the step-by-step guide below to apply for NSFAS bursary.