The NSFAS online application for 2025 is now open for eligible students who wish to receive financial assistance for their studies at public universities and TVET colleges.

South African citizens and permanent residents can apply for either the NSFAS bursary or the NSFAS student loan, depending on their household income.

NSFAS online application for 2025: Eligibility Criteria

NSFAS Bursary

  • Open to South African citizens and permanent residents.
  • Combined household income must not exceed R350 000 per annum.
  • For persons with disabilities, the combined household income cap is R600 000 per annum.

NSFAS Student Loan

  • Available to South African citizens and permanent residents.
  • Combined household income must fall between R350 001 and R600 000 per annum.

What the Funding Covers

Bursary Funding

  • Registration fees
  • Tuition fees and prescribed learning materials
  • Living allowance
  • Personal care allowance
  • Transport or accommodation

Student Loan Funding

  • Transport or accommodation
  • Learning materials
  • Accommodation

Note: Living and personal allowances are not included in loan scheme funding.

How to Apply for NSFAS Online Application 2025

  1. Visit the official NSFAS website: www.nsfas.org.za.
  2. Create a myNSFAS profile with your accurate personal details.
  3. Complete the application form with the required information.
  4. Upload all necessary supporting documents.
  5. Submit your application online before the closing date.

Who Cannot Apply

  • Students who receive 100% study funding from non-NSFAS sources.
  • Students with an existing undergraduate qualification who want to study for a second undergraduate degree.
  • Students who completed a certificate qualification and want to pursue another certificate.
  • Students enrolled at private institutions.
  • Students in programmes not approved by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) or not accredited by SAQA.

Required Supporting Documents

Applicants may be required to upload additional documents through their myNSFAS account. These include:

  • NSFAS 2025 Consent Form – to validate applicant and household information.
  • NSFAS Declaration Form – required for applicants aged 34 years or younger to verify parental/guardian details.
  • Disability Annexure Form – for students with disabilities (must include medical report).
  • Orphan or Vulnerable Child Declaration Form – for applicants under 18 who are orphans or classified as vulnerable children.

Fraud Prevention Notice

NSFAS officials will never request passwords or personal login details. To report fraud, bribery, or corruption, email: speakup@nsfas.org.za.

Contact Information

  • Toll-Free: 08000 67327
  • Email: info@nsfas.org.za

FAQs on NSFAS Online Application for 2025

1. When does the NSFAS online application for 2025 open and close?
Applications usually open towards the end of the year. Visit the NSFAS website for official dates and deadlines.

2. Can students at private colleges apply for NSFAS funding?
No. NSFAS funding is only available for students at public universities and TVET colleges.

3. Does NSFAS fund postgraduate studies in 2025?
No. NSFAS primarily funds first-time undergraduate qualifications.

4. What happens if I fail to submit required supporting documents?
Your application will remain incomplete and may be rejected until the documents are uploaded.

5. How do I track my NSFAS 2025 application status?
You can log in to your myNSFAS account to monitor updates on your application.

6. Can I reapply for NSFAS if my application was rejected before?
Yes. If your financial or academic circumstances have changed, you may reapply during the next funding cycle.

7. Is there a difference between the NSFAS bursary and loan?
Yes. The bursary is for households earning R350 000 or less per year, while the loan applies to households earning between R350 001 and R600 000.