Students Call For Reopening Of NSFAS Applications And Increased Funding

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South Africa is facing a unique challenge: a record-breaking matric pass rate has created a surge in demand for university places, raising concerns about limited capacity. This has prompted the South African Union of Students (SAUS) to call for the reopening of the NSFAS application window.


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The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) opened 2025 applications for bursaries and loans on 21 September and closed on 15 December. They then re-opened applications for TVET College students on 13 January, with a deadline set for 24 January.

NSFAS plays a crucial role in supporting students from disadvantaged backgrounds by providing comprehensive bursaries and loans which cover tuition fees, registration costs, and essential living expenses such as food, accommodation, and learning materials.

Now, the South African Union of Students (SAUS) has called for the reopening of the NSFAS application window.

While we acknowledge that the initial application period was adequately publicized, we believe that it might not necessarily catered sufficiently to all prospective students, particularly those from poor and working-class backgrounds.

NSFAS funding is a vital lifeline for many South African students, enabling them to pursue their higher education goals and contribute to the country's future.

South African Universities Face Capacity Concerns

The class of 2024 achieved a remarkable 87.3% pass rate in the National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations, with a significant portion securing Bachelor's passes. This achievement has raised concerns about the capacity of South African public universities to accommodate the influx of qualifying students.

    In 2024 alone, over 337 158 learners achieved bachelor's passes, yet our universities admit immeasurably far below that number. This disparity is an indictment of the struggle for Free and Quality Education for all.  

    SAUS has expressed concerns about the potential for structural exclusion due to limited university capacity. SAUS advocates for increased government investment in the higher education sector, focusing on:

    • Infrastructure Development: Expanding and upgrading university facilities to accommodate the growing student population.
    • Blended Learning Models: Implementing flexible learning options, such as online courses and distance learning programs, to increase accessibility and accommodate a larger number of students.

    Investment in the expansion of the higher education sector is not merely a logistical necessity but a moral imperative. Infrastructure development must be prioritised to increase capacity, and blended learning models should be robustly implemented to further broaden access.

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    As the 2025 academic year approaches, eligible students funded by NSFAS can breathe a sigh of relief. Registration fees for the upcoming academic year will be covered by NSFAS, removing a significant financial burden for many students.

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