NSFAS Bursaries: Financial Eligibility Criteria Explained

NSFAS helps thousands of students pay their university and college fees each year, but to qualify for this funding, students must meet specific eligibility criteria. The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) provides financial support to students from poor and working-class families, enabling them to pursue their first tertiary qualification. This support includes covering tuition and registration fees, as well as allowances for living expenses, accommodation, and learning materials.

Key Eligibility Criteria for NSFAS Bursaries

To qualify for NSFAS funding, students must meet both financial and academic requirements. The financial eligibility is based on household income, which varies depending on the student’s situation.

How NSFAS Assesses Financial Eligibility

NSFAS applies strict financial criteria to determine whether students qualify for bursaries. This process is the same for both new applicants and returning students.

• Household Income Limits: For able-bodied students, the combined household income must not exceed R350,000 annually. For students with disabilities, the limit is R600,000.
• Income Calculation:
  • For unmarried students, NSFAS considers the combined income of their biological or adoptive parents.
  • For students under legal guardianship, the income of the guardian and the student is taken into account.
  • For married students, the combined income of the student and their spouse is considered.
  • Independent students who meet specific criteria do not need to submit a parental income declaration.

SASSA Beneficiaries

Students who receive grants from the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) automatically meet the financial eligibility criteria, provided they are registered at an institution and meet the necessary academic standards.

NSFAS uses third-party data sources alongside the household income declared by applicants to assess eligibility. To ensure a smooth process, students must provide accurate information and submit signed consent forms, allowing NSFAS to verify their financial situation effectively.