Understanding the NSFAS Application Process: A Guide for Students

Are you going through a NSFAS Application Process? The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) provides bursaries to people from poor and working-class backgrounds who plan on studying or are studying at one of South Africa’s Public Universities or TVET Colleges. Every year, hundreds of thousands of hopeful students apply for an NSFAS bursary, but some applicants find their application stuck on the “awaiting evaluation” step. This article aims to guide students on what this means and what to do next.

What Does “Awaiting Evaluation” Mean?

When your NSFAS application status is “awaiting evaluation,” it means that your application has been received by NSFAS and will be processed. NSFAS is verifying all the documents you submitted during your application to ensure that you meet the requirements for the bursary.

What to Do If Your Application is Stuck on “Awaiting Evaluation”

If you find that your NSFAS status is stuck on the “awaiting evaluation” step, it could mean that you have missing documents. You can upload any missing documents via your myNSFAS account. Applicants are advised to constantly check the status of their NSFAS applications. If you notice that you are stuck on a step and worried that you won’t be funded, you should contact NSFAS for assistance.

NSFAS Eligibility Requirements:

NSFAS provides bursaries to people who come from poor and working-class backgrounds who plan on studying or are studying at one of South Africa’s Public Universities or TVET Colleges. The most important requirement is that your household income comes to R350 000 or less per year. This means that if you add up everyone’s salaries in your household for the year and it comes to over R350 000, you won’t qualify.

NSFAS does not fund:

  • Postgraduate courses
  • Second qualifications
  • Part-time courses
  • Short courses

NSFAS Funding: NSFAS Application Process

NSFAS funding covers more than just your tuition fees. NSFAS will also cover your registration fees, accommodation, transport, books, and other student needs through the NSFAS allowances.

The NSFAS bursary is a vital resource for many students in South Africa. It is important to understand the application process and the eligibility requirements to increase your chances of being funded. If you have any questions about your NSFAS application, contact NSFAS for assistance. Check out our website and other NSFAS videos for more information.

Young African student using laptop in library - Understanding the NSFAS Application Process
Young African student using laptop in library – Understanding the NSFAS Application Process

If you have more questions, look through our blog for answers!