NSFAS Online Application

The costs of tertiary education in South Africa are quite high. While some parents are able to pay for the further education of their children, the reality is that the rising cost of living and unequal socio-economic circumstances often means that many people simply can’t afford this. Some people apply for study loans, while others have taken advantage of the opportunities offered by the South African government through NSFAS.

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government-funded financial scheme that specialises in providing funding to underprivileged students seeking to further their education.

Although the scheme has been in the news for all the wrong reasons lately, government has stepped up in order to manage administration better.

One of these efforts has been a new student-centred approach which allows students to apply for NSFAS funding directly online.

Students will then be informed on the progress of their applications by SMS and email.

What you need to know about NSFAS online application steps:

Visit the website nsfas.org.za
Read the list provided online to check which tertiary institutions are included
View the online application form (best viewed in Internet Explorer version 8 or 9)
Complete the online application form
You will be notified of receipt confirmation via SMS
Go through the checklist of supporting documents. Prepare your documentation before applying
Make sure that you write your ID number on the top right corner of every supporting document page
Attach documents or email them to: apply@nsfas.org.za
Don’t submit more than one application unless NSFAS requests you to do so
Include a cell phone number or email address so NSFAS can communicate with you during the application process
If you have a disability, complete Annexure A and B and submit along with your application form