The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has outlined the steps it is taking to resolve ongoing funding challenges and support affected students.
Despite the application period closing over six months ago, NSFAS continues to review applications. The bursary scheme attributes the delays to application discrepancies, late registration confirmations, and budget constraints for appeals.
In a joint statement with the Department of Higher Education and Training, NSFAS reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring eligible students receive the financial support they need to continue their studies.
Efforts are currently focused on processing applications submitted during the TVET application cycle, finalising funding for students with delayed registration submissions, and securing resources to support students with successful appeals.
We remain committed to ensuring that all eligible students have access to the funding necessary to continue their studies without undue disruption. We appreciate the patience and understanding of students and stakeholders as we work diligently to resolve these issues swiftly.
NSFAS received 1,047,618 funding applications for the 2025 academic year. Of these, 857,881 were approved and 124,116 were rejected.
What’s Behind the 2025 NSFAS Funding Delays?
Incorrect Application Window
More than 12,800 university students have been blocked from receiving NSFAS funding after it was discovered they applied during the TVET college application window. Although NSFAS received their registration data, the funding has been withheld until a final decision is made. Approving funding for these students could cost over R730 million.
Delayed Registration Confirmations
Students whose registration details were confirmed after the official deadline are also experiencing funding delays. NSFAS is currently reviewing these cases to determine funding eligibility.
Appeals and Budget Constraints
NSFAS allows students whose applications were rejected to submit an appeal. In 2025, the scheme received 78,081 appeal submissions. So far, 34,645 appeals have been successful, while 13 were unsuccessful. Approximately 5,000 students still need to submit documents to support their appeal before a final decision can be made.
Successful appeals are subject to budget availability. If NSFAS does not have the funds to support them, even approved students may not receive funding.
