NSFAS has not yet finalised funding decisions for around 12,800 university students. While universities submitted these students’ registration data, which is a necessary step for funding, the students did not apply during the designated NSFAS application period.
NSFAS provides comprehensive bursaries and student loans to eligible students enrolled in approved courses at universities and TVET colleges. This support includes tuition and registration fees, along with allowances for accommodation, food, and learning materials.
Students Applied During Incorrect Application Period
Students who wish to receive NSFAS funding must apply during the official application window, which usually opens towards the end of each calendar year. NSFAS also opens separate application periods for students planning to study at TVET colleges, since these programmes often begin at different times throughout the academic year.
To accommodate this, NSFAS introduced application periods that align with the TVET college academic calendar. However, the scheme informed universities that applications submitted during the TVET-specific window would not be considered for university funding.
Despite this instruction, NSFAS received registration data for 12,800 university students who applied during the TVET application period.
“Despite clear communication, some universities proceeded to register and submit these students' data to NSFAS.”
As a result, the scheme blocked funding and allowance disbursements for these students at the beginning of the academic year. This block will remain in place until NSFAS reaches a final decision on whether these students will be funded.
If NSFAS decides to provide funding, the cost is expected to exceed R730 million.
The scheme also noted that several universities followed the instructions and did not submit applications during the TVET-specific window.
