How Long Does NSFAS Have Your Back? Let’s Break It Down

Holifil

04 Apr, 2025

Thanks to its crucial financial support, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has helped countless students stay afloat during their tertiary education. So, how long does NSFAS fund you? In this article, we’ll explore the funding timeline and other key details you need to know.

The organization’s funding can last for several years, depending on your situation. Photo: NSFAS on FB and Mzwanele Manyi on X (modified by editor) Source: UGC

How Long Does NSFAS Fund You?

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) was launched in 1996 and replaced the Tertiary Education Fund of South Africa (TEFSA) in 1999. Its mission? To help financially disadvantaged students pursue their dreams at public TVET colleges and universities across the country. Without NSFAS, many students wouldn’t have the chance to further their education.

But here’s the big question: How long does NSFAS actually cover your education costs? It’s a topic that’s on a lot of students’ minds, and we’re here to break it down for you.

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How Long Does NSFAS Fund You?

According to the official NSFAS website, the organization funds you for as long as it takes to complete your qualification—provided you pass all your modules and meet the academic requirements. In other words, if you stay on track and keep your grades up, NSFAS will be there to support you until you graduate.

Does NSFAS Fund One-Year Courses?

If you’re enrolled in a one-year course, NSFAS will cover the entire duration of your program. But here’s the catch: If you take longer than a year to complete the course, you’re on your own for the extra time. It’s important to stay focused and finish within the standard timeframe.

Can NSFAS Fund You for Seven Years?

NSFAS covers qualifications that can take anywhere from three to seven years to complete. Let’s break it down:

Diploma Programs: These typically take three years, and NSFAS will fund all three.
Standard Degrees: Most degrees require four years of study, and NSFAS will fund all four.
Extended Degrees: If your program is longer due to extenuating circumstances, NSFAS will adjust the funding period accordingly.

The funding covers the standard time it takes to complete your qualification. Photo: Klaus Vedfelt (modified by author) Source: Original

What’s the Maximum Number of Years NSFAS Can Fund You?

NSFAS will fund you for the standard duration of your qualification. Most programs take three to five years to complete, but some extended degrees might go beyond that. If you exceed the standard timeframe, you’ll need to find alternative funding sources. It’s crucial to plan ahead and ensure you can cover any additional costs if needed.

When Does NSFAS Stop Funding You?

NSFAS stops providing financial support if you drop out or fail your academic year. However, there are some exceptions:

Promising Academic Progress: If you’ve shown genuine effort—submitting assignments on time, attending classes regularly, and seeking help from lecturers—NSFAS might give you another chance on probation.
The N+ Rule: This rule allows for funding even if you fail a year due to unforeseen circumstances. You may be able to repeat the year with NSFAS support.

The total value of an NSFAS bursary per student depends on the length of your program, but the annual maximum threshold is set at R88,600.

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How Many Times Can NSFAS Fund You?

Here’s the deal: NSFAS will fund you for one qualification at one educational institution. If you want to pursue another qualification after completing your first one, you’ll need to reapply for funding. Just remember, NSFAS won’t fund two qualifications simultaneously.

The annual maximum threshold per student is R88,600. Photo: Xavier Lorenzo Source: Getty Images

How Long Does NSFAS Take to Release Funds?

Once you’ve completed the application process, your funds are typically released within the first week of each month. It’s a reliable system that ensures you have the financial support you need throughout the academic year.

How Long Does the NSFAS Process Take?

The application process is straightforward and usually takes about four to six weeks. While some applications may be processed faster, others might take a bit longer depending on individual circumstances. Patience is key, but rest assured, NSFAS works hard to get everything sorted as quickly as possible.

Can NSFAS Fund You from TVET to University?

If you’re moving from a TVET college to a university or switching institutions for any reason, you’ll need to reapply for NSFAS funding. The good news? NSFAS is flexible and can accommodate these transitions, as long as you meet the eligibility criteria.

How Do You Know If NSFAS Stopped Funding You?

Here’s how you can check your funding status:

Step 1: Head to the NSFAS website.
Step 2: Log in using your NSFAS credentials or create a new account if you haven’t already.
Step 3: Navigate to the “Track Funding Progress” section to see your current application status.

If your studies extend beyond the standard timeframe, it’s up to you to cover the extra costs. Photo: Barry Austin Photography Source: Getty Images

At Which Stage Does NSFAS Reject You?

To qualify for NSFAS funding, you need to meet certain criteria. Here are the most common reasons applications get rejected:

Incorrect or Incomplete Application Forms: One of the biggest reasons applications fail is due to errors or missing information. Double-check everything before submitting!
Household Income Above the Threshold: If your household earns more than R350,000 annually, you won’t qualify for NSFAS funding. Eligibility is based on financial need.
Poor Academic Performance: To keep your funding, you need to maintain a minimum pass rate of 50% in your courses. Falling below this mark could result in funding termination.

In summary, NSFAS provides funding for the standard duration of your qualification. However, exceptional circumstances may allow for additional support, though it’s ultimately up to the organization’s discretion.

DISCLAIMER: This article is for informational purposes only and is not sponsored by any third party. It does not address individual circumstances and should not be used as professional advice. Any decisions based on this information are your responsibility.

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