The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) plays a crucial role in South Africa’s education system, ensuring that students from low-income backgrounds have access to higher education. However, despite its significance, many myths and misconceptions surround NSFAS, making it difficult for students and their families to fully understand how the system works.
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In this guide, we will debunk the most common NSFAS myths to provide you with accurate and practical information to navigate the process effectively.
NSFAS Is Only for University Students
One of the most common myths surrounding NSFAS is that it only covers students attending universities. While NSFAS does indeed provide funding for university students, the scheme also covers students at TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) colleges.
The reality is that NSFAS is open to both university and TVET college students who meet the eligibility requirements. TVET students pursuing diplomas and certificates in various fields such as engineering, business studies, and hospitality can also apply for funding to support their studies.
Myth: NSFAS is only for university students.
Fact: NSFAS provides funding for both university and TVET college students.
You Can Only Apply for NSFAS Once
Another prevalent myth is that students can only apply for NSFAS funding once and cannot apply again in subsequent years. This is not true.
Students who meet the eligibility requirements can reapply for NSFAS funding each year during their studies, provided they continue to meet the academic and financial criteria. If you are currently receiving funding and continue to meet the necessary conditions, you do not need to reapply each year. The system automatically renews the funding for eligible returning students, but it is important to ensure that you keep your information up to date and meet academic performance standards.
Myth: You can only apply for NSFAS once.
Fact: You can reapply for NSFAS funding every year, provided you meet the requirements.
If Your Parents Earn Above a Certain Income, You Will Not Qualify
Many students mistakenly believe that if their parents earn even a modest income above a certain threshold, they will automatically be disqualified from receiving NSFAS funding. While family income plays a significant role in determining eligibility, there is no specific income cutoff that automatically disqualifies students from receiving funding.
NSFAS uses a means test to assess the financial need of applicants. This means that a student’s eligibility depends on a variety of factors, including their family’s combined income, the number of dependents in the household, and other socio-economic conditions. As long as the family meets the criteria set by NSFAS, students can receive funding regardless of the exact income level.
Myth: If your parents earn above a certain income, you will not qualify.
Fact: Eligibility depends on various factors and is not solely determined by a specific income threshold.
NSFAS Funds Are Only Available for Undergraduate Students
Some students believe that NSFAS only provides funding for undergraduate courses. While this is partially true, it is important to note that NSFAS can also fund students pursuing postgraduate studies. However, postgraduate students must meet certain conditions.
For instance, honours and master’s students can qualify for funding, but only if they are pursuing qualifications at public universities, and they must meet the necessary financial need criteria. Additionally, postgraduate students can receive funding for specific needs, such as tuition fees, accommodation, and study materials, depending on the availability of funds.
Myth: NSFAS only funds undergraduate students.
Fact: NSFAS also provides funding for eligible postgraduate students, subject to certain conditions.
NSFAS Funding Covers All Your Expenses
While NSFAS does provide financial assistance, it does not cover all expenses related to a student’s education. Many students assume that NSFAS funding will pay for everything, from tuition to living expenses. However, NSFAS funding typically covers the following:
- Tuition fees: Full or partial payment depending on the student’s financial needs.
- Accommodation: If the student is staying in university-approved accommodation or private accommodation (subject to specific criteria).
- Study materials: Such as textbooks, laptops, and other necessary educational materials.
- Living allowances: A stipend to help with daily expenses, though this may not cover all personal costs.
In certain circumstances, if the allocated NSFAS amount exceeds the required funding for tuition, accommodation, and study materials, students may receive a living allowance. However, the exact amount varies based on the student’s financial need and location.
Myth: NSFAS covers all your expenses.
Fact: NSFAS covers tuition, accommodation, study materials, and living expenses, but the total amount may not cover everything.
NSFAS Will Automatically Fund You if You Qualify
Many students think that once they qualify for NSFAS, they will automatically receive funding without having to take any further action. This is not the case.
While meeting the eligibility criteria is crucial, students must apply for NSFAS funding each year. The application process is straightforward, but it requires careful attention to detail. Students must submit all required documents, such as proof of income, their identity document, and their acceptance letter from the institution they plan to attend. Missing any part of the application can result in delays or disqualification.
Myth: NSFAS will automatically fund you if you qualify.
Fact: Students must apply for NSFAS funding each year and ensure they meet all application requirements.
NSFAS Only Funds Full-Time Students
Some students believe that NSFAS funding is only available to full-time students. However, part-time students can also qualify for NSFAS funding, as long as they meet the same eligibility criteria.
The key difference for part-time students is that their funding may be adjusted to reflect their study load. For example, part-time students may receive a pro-rated amount for tuition and other allowances based on the number of modules they take compared to a full-time course load.
Myth: NSFAS only funds full-time students.
Fact: Part-time students can also receive funding, but the amount may vary depending on their study load.
NSFAS Funding is a Loan, and You Have to Pay it Back Immediately
Many students mistakenly believe that NSFAS funding is a loan that requires immediate repayment. However, NSFAS funding is not a loan in the traditional sense.
NSFAS funding is a bursary for students who meet the eligibility criteria. This means that the money does not have to be repaid as long as the student completes their studies and abides by the rules. In certain circumstances, such as when a student does not complete their course, they may be required to pay back a portion of the funding.
However, for most students, NSFAS funding is a non-repayable bursary as long as they fulfill their academic obligations.
Myth: NSFAS funding is a loan that you have to repay immediately.
Fact: NSFAS funding is a bursary and does not need to be repaid as long as the student completes their studies successfully.
You Can Get NSFAS Funding for Any Course
While NSFAS offers financial assistance for a wide range of courses, there are certain programs that are not eligible for funding. These include some private courses or qualifications that are not offered at public universities or TVET colleges.
Students must ensure that the course or qualification they are pursuing is approved by NSFAS before they apply for funding. NSFAS primarily funds undergraduate and diploma qualifications offered by accredited public institutions.
Myth: You can get NSFAS funding for any course.
Fact: NSFAS funding is only available for courses offered at accredited public universities and TVET colleges.
Read more: NSFAS Reapplying Guide: When and How to Apply Again if You Were Rejected
NSFAS plays a vital role in helping students from disadvantaged backgrounds access higher education. However, the myths surrounding the funding scheme can make it difficult for students to fully understand how it works.
By debunking the common myths discussed in this guide, we hope to provide a clearer picture of how NSFAS operates and how students can benefit from it.
