The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has processed 41,211 of the 74,807 funding appeals received from students whose initial applications were denied. Of those processed, 23,511 appeals were successful, resulting in funding approval. However, 5,846 appeals were rejected due to non-compliance with funding criteria.
NSFAS has outlined clear criteria for appeal eligibility.
Applicants are ineligible if they: are enrolled in a non-NSFAS funded qualification; have exceeded the N+2 rule (N+3 for students with disabilities); provided inconsistent parental/guardian information; have institutional registration record discrepancies (which must be addressed with the institution); or were previously denied funding due to academic ineligibility after a gap year.
Eligibility Criteria for Appeals Clarified
Specific Circumstances Exclude Appeal Consideration
NSFAS has outlined clear criteria for appeal eligibility. Applicants are ineligible if they: are enrolled in a non-NSFAS funded qualification; have exceeded the N+2 rule (N+3 for students with disabilities); provided inconsistent parental/guardian information; have institutional registration record discrepancies (which must be addressed with the institution); or were previously denied funding due to academic ineligibility after a gap year.
Academic Performance Appeals: Strict Requirements
Evidence Required for Consideration
Appeals based on academic performance will only be considered under specific, documented circumstances. These include: proven errors in recorded results; exam absence due to severe illness (two months or more); loss of an immediate family member or victimisation by violent crime during the academic term; childbirth during the academic term; or institutional confirmation of qualification completion within one additional term.
Household Income Appeals: Proof of Change Essential
Evidence of Financial Shift Mandated
Students exceeding the household income threshold can appeal if they provide evidence of an actual income below the threshold, a change in household income since application, incapacitation or death of a key financial contributor, or a court ruling establishing financial independence.
NSFAS requires all supporting documents to be submitted upon request via SMA/email for appeals to be processed. Ineligible applicants must reapply in the next funding cycle.
