The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a South African government initiative designed to assist students from disadvantaged backgrounds in accessing higher education.
If you’re considering applying for an NSFAS bursary to study at a TVET college, it’s essential to understand what the bursary covers.
This article will provide a comprehensive overview.
What is the NSFAS Bursary?
The NSFAS bursary is a financial aid package designed to assist students from poor and working-class backgrounds to access and succeed in higher education.
It covers various expenses related to tertiary studies, aiming to alleviate the financial burden on students and their families.
Does NSFAS Cover Tuition Fees?
One of the most common questions about NSFAS is whether it covers tuition fees. The answer is a resounding yes.
NSFAS covers the full cost of tuition and registration for all approved students at public universities and TVET colleges.
This means you won’t have to worry about paying these fees out of your pocket.
What is Covered by the NSFAS Bursary?
The NSFAS bursary is designed to cover the core costs associated with your studies.
The actual amounts may not be the same, the general coverage includes:
- Tuition Fees: This is the primary component of the bursary. NSFAS covers the full cost of your tuition at a public TVET college.
- Registration Fees: In addition to tuition, NSFAS also covers the registration fees required to secure your place at the college.
While tuition and registration fees are the core components covered by NSFAS, the bursary can also extend to additional support depending on your circumstances.
Does NSFAS Cover Accommodation?
A common question regarding NSFAS that many people usually have is whether it covers accommodation costs. It depends.
NSFAS provides accommodation funding for students placed in NSFAS accredited residences.
If your TVET college has NSFAS accredited accommodation, you may qualify for this support.
However, if you choose to reside in private accommodation, you will need to cover these costs yourself.
You should inquire about accommodation options and NSFAS accreditation at your chosen TVET college during the application process.
Does NSFAS Cover Living Allowance?
Another essential aspect of student life is living expenses.
NSFAS does provide a living allowance to assist with daily necessities such as food, toiletries, and transport.
The amount allocated for this varies and depends on factors like the cost of living in your area.
It’s important to note that the living allowance is intended to supplement your income, and it may not cover all your living expenses.
Careful budgeting is essential to make the most of this support.
What About Study Materials?
NSFAS recognizes the importance of study materials for academic success.
The bursary covers the cost of prescribed textbooks and learning materials required for your course.
You will typically receive a voucher or allowance to purchase these items.
It’s advisable to check with your college’s bookstore or library for information on how to obtain your study materials using the NSFAS allocation.
Does NSFAS Cover Transport Costs?
NSFAS doesn’t provide a direct transport allowance but it does contribute to your living allowance, which can partially cover transport costs.
However, if you rely heavily on public transport or own a vehicle, you might need to budget additional funds for transportation.
Consider exploring public transport options, carpooling, or walking if possible to minimize transport expenses.
What About Laptop or Computer Allowance?
NSFAS doesn’t provide any allowance for purchasing a laptop or computer.
However, many TVET colleges offer computer labs and internet access for students.
You should check the facilities available at your college.
If owning a personal computer is a big part of your studies, you may need to explore other funding options or purchase one gradually.