Nearly 95% of TVET College Students Benefiting from NSFAS Funding. The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) plays a pivotal role in providing comprehensive bursaries to deserving students enrolled in public tertiary educational institutions in South Africa. This inclusive initiative extends to the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges across the country. check Your Latest Application Now
Equipping Students for Employment
With 50 Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Colleges spanning the nation, students have the opportunity to pursue education and acquire skills essential for securing employment in South Africa. These institutions are dedicated to delivering practical vocational training programs and technical skill development courses, ultimately preparing students for a diverse array of professional fields.
NSFAS Support for TVET College Students
An impressive statistic reveals that almost 95% of students enrolled in TVET college courses receive financial backing from the NSFAS. Those holding a grade 9, 10, 11, or 12 certificate are eligible to apply for admission at a TVET College.
Upcoming Trimester 3 Application Window
While the recent application period for NSFAS funding during Semester 2 at TVET colleges has concluded, the upcoming Trimester 3 application window presents another opportunity. Starting from September 4, 2023, until September 20, 2023, TVET College students can submit their applications for NSFAS funding during this period.
Eligibility Criteria for TVET College Students
NSFAS has established specific eligibility criteria for students seeking funding at TVET colleges. To be eligible, students must:
- Hold South African citizenship.
- Be registered or intending to register for a PLP, NC(V), or Report 191 program at a public TVET College in South Africa.
- Have been admitted or received a firm offer for enrollment in a college.
- Demonstrate financial need.
- Fall within the maximum threshold of up to R350,000 of combined gross family income per annum.
- Returning students must exhibit proven and accepted academic performance in line with the college’s progression policy or the Bursary Rules and Guidelines.
- Not be enrolling in a qualification that duplicates previously state-funded learning.
NSFAS Allowances for TVET Students
Allowances granted to TVET college students vary based on their living arrangements. While some students reside in college residences, others opt for private accommodations. The NSFAS bursary aims to cover a comprehensive range of expenses related to studies, including:
- Urban area accommodation: R24,000 annually
- Peri-urban area accommodation: R18,900 annually
- Rural area accommodation: R15,750 annually
- Transport (up to 40 km from the institution): R7,350 annually
- Living expenses allowance: R7,000 annually
- Incidental/personal care allowance: R2,900 annually
Applying for TVET College Funding
Applying for funding at TVET colleges can be done through various avenues:
- TVET college bursary offices
- Online application
- NSFAS head office
NSFAS Funding Application Online Guide Step-by-Step
Submitting an application for the NSFAS bursary requires following a systematic process online:
- Visit the NSFAS website.
- Access the ‘myNSFAS’ tab.
- Create a myNSFAS account.
- Click on the ‘APPLY’ tab and complete the required sections.
- Upload necessary supporting documents as applicable.
- Click ‘Submit’ to finalize the application.
Required Documents for NSFAS Applications
TVET college students must provide supporting documents along with their NSFAS bursary application, including:
- Personal cell phone number and email address.
- Copy of ID or birth certificate.
- ID copies of parents, guardians, or spouse (or death certificate where relevant).
- Marriage certificate if applicable.
- Proof of income or 1 year’s IRP5 if applicable.
- Proof of income for parents, guardians, or spouse; SASSA grant recipients need not provide proof of income.
- Court order if applicable.
- Completed and signed Disability Annexure A Form for applicants with disabilities.
- Completed and signed Vulnerable Child Declaration and Consent Form for recognized Vulnerable Children.
Tracking Your NSFAS Application
To monitor the progress of your NSFAS application:
- Visit the NSFAS website.
- Navigate to the “myNSFAS” tab.
- Log in using your username and password.
- Click on “track funding progress.”
- Your application status will be displayed, indicating approval or status.
Final Call for Trimester 3 Applications
As the final opportunity to apply for funding approaches during Trimester 3, students are strongly advised to submit their applications promptly to avoid missing the application deadline.
