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The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has officially opened its 2025 application process, with applications set to close on 15 December 2024. This announcement was made by Higher Education and Training Minister, Dr. Nobuhle Nkabane, during a media briefing in Pretoria.
Minister Nkabane highlighted the transformative impact of NSFAS since its inception, having supported over five million students from poor and working-class backgrounds. “NSFAS has played a pivotal role in empowering individuals from historically disadvantaged communities, contributing to the ongoing transformation of our country,” she said.
In 2024 alone, NSFAS is providing financial aid to 1.2 million students, a figure expected to rise in 2025. The Minister emphasized that NSFAS is essential in addressing the structural inequalities left by the apartheid system and advancing the nation’s goal of creating a capable and inclusive state.
New Loan Scheme for the Missing Middle
Dr. Nkabane also introduced a new initiative aimed at supporting students from households classified as the “missing middle,” with incomes between R350,000 and R600,000 per year. This new loan scheme provides financial support for those who do not qualify for the traditional NSFAS bursary.
“This initiative represents our commitment to expanding access to higher education for more South Africans, particularly those who have historically been left out of the system,” Nkabane said.
How to Apply for NSFAS Funding
Applicants can apply by visiting the NSFAS website at www.nsfas.org.za or my.nsfas.org.za and following these steps:
- Create a myNSFAS account.
- Complete the online application form.
- Upload required documents and submit the application.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for NSFAS funding, applicants must:
- Be South African citizens or permanent residents with a combined household income of R350,000 or less annually.
- SASSA beneficiaries automatically qualify without needing to submit proof of income.
- Applicants with disabilities qualify if their household income is below R600,000 per year.
For the “missing middle,” the new NSFAS Loan Scheme applies to students with household incomes between R350,000 and R600,000 per year.
Apply Early
Minister Nkabane urged prospective students to apply early, stressing the importance of avoiding last-minute delays. “Students don’t need to wait for their matric results to apply. The earlier they apply, the sooner NSFAS can process their applications.”
NSFAS will also continue outreach efforts across all provinces, focusing on rural and township communities to ensure broader access to education funding.