NSFAS provides comprehensive bursaries and student loans to deserving students enrolled in approved courses at universities and TVET colleges. This funding covers tuition and registration fees. Students also receive several allowances for food, accommodation, and learning materials.
The schme has confirmed receiving 74,807 appeals from students whose initial applications were unsuccessful. Of these, 41,211 have already been processed, with 23,511 approved for funding. However, 5,846 appeals were rejected for not meeting the funding criteria.
NSFAS outlined the specific circumstances under which students can submit appeals and the necessary documentation required to support their cases.
Who Is Not Eligible to Appeal?
Not all unsuccessful applicants can submit an appeal. Students are ineligible if they:
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Are enrolled in a qualification not funded by NSFAS.
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Have exceeded the N+2 rule (N+3 for students with disabilities).
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Provided inconsistent parental or guardian details.
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Have registration records missing or incorrectly submitted by their institution.
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Took a gap year after being previously denied due to academic ineligibility.
Grounds for Appeal
Academic Performance Appeals
Students may appeal based on academic performance if they can prove that:
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Their academic records were incorrectly recorded.
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They missed exams due to severe illness lasting more than two months.
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They lost an immediate family member or experienced a violent crime during the academic term.
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They gave birth during the academic term.
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Their institution confirms they can complete their qualification in one additional term.
Household Income Appeals
Students exceeding the income threshold may appeal if they:
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Provide proof that their actual household income is below the threshold.
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Can show a change in household income since applying.
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Have lost a financial contributor due to incapacitation or death.
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Have been legally declared financially independent by a court.
Submit Supporting Documents to Finalise Your Appeal
NSFAS has urged students who have submitted appeals to provide the necessary supporting documents as soon as possible.
As NSFAS continues to process appeal submissions from applicants whose applications were unsuccessful, you are reminded that we require relevant supporting documentation to finalise your appeal,
Appeal applicants will receive an SMS and email listing the required documents. These must be submitted within 30 days of receiving the request, or the appeal will be closed.
Students who have submitted appeals are encouraged to check their emails and SMS notifications regularly to ensure they provide all necessary documentation before the deadline. Failing to do so will result in their appeal being dismissed.
By adhering to these guidelines, students can maximise their chances of securing NSFAS funding for the 2025 academic year.
