The high costs of tertiary education in South Africa have made it more challenging for many students to access tertiary education. With the general high cost of living, finding money for tertiary education has become tougher. More students are relying on student loans as a result.
The good news is that South Africa has a variety of financial solutions for students. In addition to student loans from banking institutions, the South African government-backed National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) offers convenient financial aid.
NSFAS identifies eligible students, provides loans and bursaries and collects student loan repayments to replenish the funds available for future generations of students.
The scheme supports access to and success in higher education and training for students from poor and working class families who would otherwise not be able to afford to study.
Who can apply for funding from NSFAS Student Loans?
Students registered at public universities or TVET colleges.
Documents required for the application process:
- Valid ID
- ID copies of each household member
- Latest academic transcript
- Recent payslip or letter of employment for each parent, or the person who supports you
- Pension slip if retired
- Death certificate if parents are deceased
- Proof of registration
Keep in mind that certified copies must not be older than 3 months. To ensure that your application is successful, you need to write your ID number on each page.
To apply for NSFAS Student Loans, you first need to register. You then need to fill in and submit the application form online.
The aim is to transform NSFAS into an efficient and effective provider of financial aid to students from poor and working class families in a sustainable manner that promotes access to, and success in higher and further education and training, in pursuit of South Africa’s national and human resource development goals.
Contact NSFAS by calling 0860 067 327 or by emailing info@nsfas.org.za
