Students whose NSFAS applications have been declined or whose funding has been withdrawn have the option to appeal the decision. Once an appeal is submitted, applicants should regularly monitor their NSFAS appeal status.
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 and several allowances are paid to students for food, accommodation, and learning materials.
A NSFAS appeal is a formal request for the NSFAS to reconsider a unsuccessful funding decision. However, appeal approvals are subject to the availability of funds.
What is a NSFAS Appeal?
An NSFAS appeal is a formal request for the NSFAS to reconsider a funding decision. However, appeal approvals are subject to the availability of funds.
Reasons for Rejection and Appeals
Financial Eligibility Rejections
Students may be deemed ineligible for funding based on financial criteria. Common reasons include:
Rejections Based on SARS Data
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Household income exceeding R350,000
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Household income exceeding R350,000 (first-time entering student)
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Household income exceeding R600,000 (disabled student)
Rejections Based on Credit Bureau Data
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Declared income exceeding R350,000
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Credit bureau records indicating income above R350,000
Rejections Based on Declared Income
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Declared income exceeding R350,000
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Declared income exceeding R600,000 (disabled student)
Appeals for Continuing Students
Continuing students may appeal if they fail to meet academic requirements due to exceptional circumstances, such as:
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Illness lasting two months or longer
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Giving birth during the academic term
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Death of an immediate family member
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Being a victim of a violent crime
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Exceeding the N+ rule for funding duration
Appeals must be submitted within 30 days of receiving an unsuccessful funding decision. Once submitted, applicants should track their NSFAS appeal status.
How to Track Your NSFAS Appeal Status
Students can check their appeal status on the myNSFAS portal by following these steps:
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Log in to the myNSFAS student portal on the NSFAS website.
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Enter your username and password, then click "Sign In."
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Click on "Track Your Funding Progress" to view your application status.
The NSFAS appeal process is only available to students who have applied for funding. Providing accurate information and all required supporting documents is crucial to improving the chances of a successful appeal.
