For many South African students and parents, finding funding for higher education can be one of the most stressful parts of the journey. Whether you’re heading to university for the first time or trying to finish a diploma at a TVET college, the question remains: how will you pay for it all?
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Two of the most talked-about options in South Africa are NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme) and Fundi Loans. But they work very differently. This guide will help you understand the key differences, how each one works, and which might be the right choice for you.
What Is NSFAS?
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government-funded programme that offers bursaries to financially needy and academically deserving students. NSFAS funding covers the full cost of study, including tuition, accommodation, transport, and living allowances.
Key Features of NSFAS:
- Funded by the Department of Higher Education and Training.
- Available to South African citizens only.
- Open to students studying at public universities and TVET colleges.
- Funding does not need to be repaid if academic requirements are met.
Real-Life Case Study: Lerato’s Journey
Lerato is from a rural area and comes from a family with a combined annual income of R250,000, which made her eligible for NSFAS support.
- Region: Limpopo
- Discipline: Social Work
- Outcome: Lerato successfully completed her degree and secured a job in a local NGO, directly benefiting from the financial stability provided by NSFAS.
What Is a Fundi Loan?
Fundi is a private education finance company that offers student loans and other education-related funding services. It operates more like a traditional credit provider and caters to a wider audience, including students at private colleges.
Key Features of Fundi Loans:
- Privately funded (not a government scheme).
- Loans must be paid back with interest.
- Open to anyone (subject to credit checks and affordability).
- Can be used for tuition, accommodation, textbooks, and even devices like laptops.
For more details, visit the Fundi Official Website.
Real-Life Case Study: Thabiso’s Story
Thabiso, an aspiring digital marketer, wanted to pursue a short course in digital marketing at a private institution in Johannesburg. Unfortunately, NSFAS does not fund private colleges, so he applied for a Fundi loan. Thabiso’s loan was sponsored by his older brother, who had a solid credit history. The loan covered his tuition and learning materials, allowing him to complete the course.
- Region: Gauteng
- Discipline: Digital Marketing
- Outcome: Upon completing the course, Thabiso secured a full-time job as an e-commerce specialist, with his employer recognizing the value of his certification.
Major Differences Between Fundi and NSFAS
Here’s a side-by-side comparison:
| Feature | NSFAS | Fundi Loans |
|---|---|---|
| Type of Funding | Government bursary | Private loan |
| Repayment Required? | No (if requirements met) | Yes, with interest |
| Eligibility | Low-income students at public institutions | Anyone with good credit or a sponsor |
| Covered Institutions | Public universities and TVET colleges | Public and private colleges/universities |
| Application Period | Opens annually (usually Sept–Jan) | Open year-round |
Who Should Apply for NSFAS?
NSFAS is ideal for:
- Students from low-income households (combined annual income below R350,000).
- Those studying at public universities or TVET colleges.
- Individuals who want to avoid student debt.
Pro Tip: Apply early. NSFAS applications usually open around September and close in January. Late applications are rarely accepted.
Who Should Consider a Fundi Loan?
Fundi is ideal for:
- Students attending private colleges that NSFAS does not cover.
- Working professionals pursuing short courses or postgraduate diplomas.
- Families who do not qualify for NSFAS due to income thresholds but still need financial assistance.
Pro Tip: If you don’t have a credit record, a parent or guardian can apply as your sponsor.
Application Process: NSFAS vs Fundi
NSFAS Application Steps:
- Visit www.nsfas.org.za.
- Register your myNSFAS account.
- Upload required documents:
- Certified ID
- Proof of income
- Consent form
- Wait for confirmation and funding decision.
Fundi Loan Application Steps:
- Visit www.fundi.co.za.
- Choose the type of funding (tuition, accommodation, etc.).
- Complete the online form.
- Upload:
- ID documents
- Proof of income
- Bank statements
- Loan offer is made based on affordability and credit check.
The Impact of NSFAS vs Fundi Loans
1. Sihle’s Experience – TVET College Student (NSFAS Funding)
Sihle, a first-year student at a TVET college in KwaZulu-Natal, was awarded NSFAS funding. The bursary covered her full tuition fees and a transport allowance, which was essential for commuting from her rural home. Sihle’s family income fell below the NSFAS threshold, making her eligible for full financial support.
- Region: KwaZulu-Natal
- Discipline: Electrical Engineering
- Outcome: Sihle is now pursuing her internship at a local power utility company, and she credits NSFAS funding for allowing her to pursue a career in engineering without the financial burden.
2. Nandi’s Story – Postgraduate Student (Fundi Loan)
Nandi, a recent graduate from University of Cape Town (UCT), decided to further her studies with an MBA. Since NSFAS only covers undergraduate studies, she turned to Fundi for financial assistance. Nandi’s loan, which covered tuition and living expenses, was approved based on her credit rating and future earning potential.
- Region: Western Cape
- Discipline: Business Administration (MBA)
- Outcome: Nandi completed her MBA and started a consulting firm focused on providing business strategy solutions to small businesses across South Africa.
3. Siyabonga’s Journey – Short Course Student (Fundi Loan)
Siyabonga, a working professional in the Eastern Cape, sought to enhance his skills with a short course in project management offered by a private institution. Due to his working status, he was eligible for a Fundi loan. The loan covered his tuition fees, and he chose to pay it off in instalments once he started working full-time.
- Region: Eastern Cape
- Discipline: Project Management
- Outcome: After completing the course, Siyabonga was promoted to project manager within his company, and he is now on track for a leadership role in his industry.
Key Insights on the Impact of NSFAS and Fundi Loans
- NSFAS Reach: In 2024, over 700,000 South African students were funded by NSFAS, with the majority attending public universities and TVET colleges. This represents a significant portion of the student population, particularly from low-income households.
- Fundi Loan Accessibility: As a private loan provider, Fundi has been instrumental in supporting students attending private colleges and universities, as well as those pursuing non-degree short courses. In 2023 alone, Fundi provided over R1.5 billion in loans to over 50,000 students across various disciplines.
- NSFAS Impact on Graduation Rates: A 2023 study from the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) revealed that NSFAS-funded students have a higher graduation rate (approximately 75%) compared to non-funded students at public institutions, demonstrating the financial aid’s significant role in supporting academic success.
- Private Loan Market Growth: Private education loans like Fundi have seen a 25% increase in applications over the past five years, particularly from students pursuing post-graduate studies or attending private institutions, where government funding is not available.
Things to Consider Before Choosing
Ask yourself:
- Am I eligible for NSFAS?
- Is my institution covered by NSFAS?
- Can I afford to repay a loan?
- Do I have someone who can co-sign a Fundi loan?
Tips for Making the Right Choice:
- Check institution accreditation – NSFAS won’t fund non-accredited institutions.
- Review loan terms carefully – Fundi loans have interest and monthly repayments.
- Keep documents updated – Especially income proof and IDs.
- Track deadlines – NSFAS has a strict timeline; Fundi is more flexible.
Which One Is Right for You?
Both NSFAS and Fundi serve important roles in helping South Africans access education—but they’re not interchangeable. NSFAS is best for low-income students at public institutions, while Fundi suits those needing more flexible or private funding options.
Next Steps:
- Visit nsfas.org.za to see if you qualify.
- Explore fundi.co.za if you’re going private or need a top-up.
Disclaimer: Always verify the most up-to-date application deadlines, income limits, and eligibility rules directly from official websites or your institution’s financial aid office.
