How To Apply For NSFAS Bursary In SWGC

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a financial aid program that assists South African students with demonstrated financial need in pursuing their studies at public TVET colleges like South West Gauteng College (SWGC).

If you’re a South African citizen considering a program at SWGC and require financial assistance, an NSFAS bursary can significantly ease the burden of your education costs. 

What is the eligibility criteria for an NSFAS bursary at SWGC?

Before we start with the application process, you have to understand the eligibility criteria established by NSFAS.

To qualify for an NSFAS bursary at SWGC, you must meet the following requirements:

1. South African Citizenship: You must be a South African citizen.
2. TVET College Program: You must be registered or intend to register for a qualifying program at SWGC. Qualifying programs include National Certificate Vocational (NC(V)) and Report 191 programmes.
3. Financial Need: You must demonstrate a financial need through a means test conducted by NSFAS. This test assesses your combined gross family income to determine your eligibility for financial assistance.
4. Academic Performance (Returning Students Only): If you’re a returning student seeking NSFAS funding, you’ll need to demonstrate satisfactory academic performance as per SWGC’s progression policy or NSFAS’s bursary rules.

When can I apply for an NSFAS bursary at SWGC?

The application window for NSFAS funding almost always opens in August and closes in September for Semester 1 and Trimester 1 intakes.

There might be additional application windows for Trimester 2 and 3 intakes, so it’s recommended to check the NSFAS website for the most up-to-date application deadlines.

What documents do I need to apply for an NSFAS bursary at SWGC?

To complete your NSFAS bursary application for SWGC, you’ll need to have certified and scanned copies of the following documents:

1. Identity Document/Birth Certificate: Proof of your South African citizenship.
2. Latest Academic Results: Your most recent academic transcripts or report cards (if applicable).
3. Proof of Parents’ Income (If Employed): Payslips, tax returns, or any documentation that verifies your parents’ income (if applicable).
4. Death Certificate/s (If Parents Deceased): A certified death certificate for a deceased parent (if applicable).
5. Doctor’s Certificate (If Permanently Disabled): Medical documentation verifying permanent disability (if applicable).

How do I apply for an NSFAS bursary at SWGC?

The application process for an NSFAS bursary at SWGC is entirely online. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Visit the NSFAS Website: Navigate to the NSFAS website.
2. Create a myNSFAS Account: If you’re a first-time applicant, you’ll need to create a myNSFAS account. This involves registering with your personal details and creating a secure password.
3. Click on ‘APPLY’: Once logged in to your myNSFAS account, locate the ‘APPLY’ tab and proceed.
4. Complete the Application Sections: Carefully fill out all the required sections within the online application form. Ensure the information you provide is accurate and complete.
5. Upload Supporting Documents: Upload scanned copies of all the aforementioned documents in the designated sections of the application.

What happens after I submit my NSFAS bursary application for SWGC?

Once you’ve submitted your application, NSFAS will assess your eligibility based on the information provided and the means test.

The processing time can vary, but you’ll receive communication from NSFAS regarding the outcome of your application.

What if my NSFAS bursary application for SWGC is unsuccessful?

If your NSFAS bursary application is unsuccessful, you’ll be notified and given reasons for the decision.

You have the right to appeal the decision if you believe there’s been an error in the assessment.

The NSFAS website provides detailed information on the appeals process.