NSFAS is a scholarship program for students who lack the financial resources to pay for their education and are unable to access bank loans, study loans, or bursaries. It is supported by the Department of Higher Education and Training.

Students from low-income and working-class backgrounds who are enrolled in one of South Africa’s public universities or TVET colleges are given financial aid by NSFAS. The NSFAS bursary provides funding for transportation, housing, and other necessities for students in addition to paying beneficiaries’ tuition costs.

How to Apply for NSFAS

• Go to and click on the ‘myNSFAS’ tab.
• Create a myNSFAS account.
• Click on the ‘APPLY’ tab and complete the sections on the screen.
• Upload required supporting documents where applicable.
• Click on ‘Submit’

Applications for NSFAS are usually available for a brief while at the end of the year. Before, NSFAS financial assistance was provided in the form of loans, which must still be repaid when recipients secure employment after completing their studies.

How to Create NSFAS Account

• Type in first names (as per ID number)
• Type in Surname (as per ID number)
• Type in your ID number (will your username)
• Type in your own Email address
• Type in your own Cellphone number
• Accept terms and conditions by ticking the box provided to allow NSFAS to check the information provided (compulsory)
• Create a Password, To (protect your account)

Note: The Department of Home Affairs database is used to validate the ID number, names, and surnames. Only authentic South African ID data will be recognized.