Fully subsidised free higher education and training for poor and working-class South Africans.
Who Should Read This?
- Students who want to study at a public university or TVET college
- Students already studying
- Household income R350 000 or less
If this is you: You may qualify for NSFAS funding
What is NSFAS?
- A government entity under the Department of Higher Education and Training
- Established by the NSFAS Act (Act 56 of 1999)
- Provides financial support to disadvantaged students
What Does the Bursary Cover?
University Students
- Accommodation: Actual university costs (private capped at residence rates)
- Transport: Up to R7 500/year (≤ 40 km)
- Living allowance: R15 000/year
- Book allowance: R5 200/year
- Personal care allowance: R2 900/year (catered residences)
TVET College Students
- Accommodation:
- Urban: R24 000/year
- Peri-urban: R18 900/year
- Rural: R15 750/year
- Transport:
- Up to 40 km: R7 350/year
- Other: R7 000/year
- Personal care allowance: R2 900/year
Who Qualifies?
- All South African citizens
- All SASSA grant recipients
- Household income ≤ R350 000/year
- Students with disabilities: ≤ R600 000/year
- Pre-2018 students: ≤ R122 000/year
Who Should NOT Apply?
- Students who already completed a qualification
- Household income above R350 000/year
- Students already funded by NSFAS
(They continue receiving funding if they meet academic requirements)
Key Takeaway
If you meet the income requirements and are studying (or planning to), NSFAS can fully support your education costs.