Which Institutions Do NSFAS Fund

Which Institutions Do NSFAS Fund

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a program in South Africa that helps students who cannot afford to pay for their studies. It gives financial support to students who qualify, making it easier for them to go to college or university. This support covers important costs like tuition fees, textbooks, housing, and sometimes even meals and transport.

One of the key things to know about NSFAS is that it doesn’t fund just any institution. Instead, it works with selected public universities and TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) colleges across South Africa. These are the only institutions where students can study if they want to receive NSFAS funding. Knowing which institutions are funded by NSFAS is very important if you’re planning to apply for financial aid. If your chosen college or university isn’t on the NSFAS list, you won’t be able to get support from them.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll look at the different public universities and TVET colleges that are approved for NSFAS funding. This can help you choose the right place to study, especially if you’re based on NSFAS to pay for your education. Choosing an NSFAS-funded institution is a big step toward achieving your career and study goals without the worry of financial stress.

Learn more: Nursing Colleges With NSFAS 2026-2027

List of Institutions Funded by NSFAS in 2026

When it comes to pursuing higher education in South Africa National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) seeks to provide support to students who cannot afford their educational expenses. NSFAS provides funding to 50 TVET Colleges and 26 Universities across South Africa. The following institutions are funded by NSFAS;

Public Universities:

NSFAS supports South Africa’s public universities. NSFAS pays for a variety of expenditures for qualifying students attending these institutions. This covers tuition, accommodation, textbooks, and other necessary educational expenses.

Tshwane University of Technology
Mangosuthu University of Technology
University of Limpopo
University of Venda
University of Fort Hare
University of Cape Town
Stellenbosch University
Rhodes University
University of Pretoria
Nelson Mandela University
Walter Sisulu University (with multiple campuses)
Cape Peninsula University of Technology
University of the Witwatersrand
University of Johannesburg
North West University
University of KwaZulu-Natal

Which Institutions Do NSFAS Fund

Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Colleges:

The role of TVET institutions in providing students with the knowledge and practical skills that are highly valued in a variety of sectors is significant. NSFAS acknowledges the importance of TVET education and provides financial assistance to students enrolled in vocational courses at these colleges.

Coastal TVET College
Elangeni TVET College
Majuba TVET College
Capricorn TVET College
Motheo TVET College
Central Johannesburg TVET College
Ekurhuleni East TVET College
False Bay TVET College
Buffalo City TVET College
Eastcape Midlands TVET College
Ikhala TVET College
King Hintsa TVET College
Lephalale TVET College
Northern Cape Urban TVET College
Flavius Mareka TVET College
Northlink TVET College

Which Institutions Do NSFAS Fund

NSFAS Application Eligibility Criteria

NSFAS support is designed for students who meet specific requirements. Applicants must normally meet the requirements below to be considered:

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.

Learn more: Which Colleges Offer NSFAS 2026

NSFAS Application Required Documentation

The following documents must be uploaded to apply for NSFAS;

All applicants must provide a copy of their ID. A temporary ID issued by the Department of Home Affairs will be accepted.
Non-SASSA applicants must provide ID copies of parent/s, legal guardian/guardian, or spouse.
Smart ID cards: A copy with both sides of the smart ID must be provided.
Proof of income: The applicant and/or parents/legal guardian/spouse (where applicable (non-SASSA) should provide the latest payslip not older than 3 months, UIF letter, appointment letter, retrenchment letter (applicant and/or parent(s), legal guardian/spouse)
Passports/Driver’s licenses will not be accepted as proof of ID.

How To Apply For NSFAS Funding

Applying for NSFAS funding is simple, easy, convenient, and straightforward. To apply for NSFAS funding, follow the steps below;