Can I Get NSFAS Without Matric?

Yes, if you study at a public TVET college. NSFAS funds eligible students in TVET programmes that do not require matric, such as the National Certificate (Vocational), which starts from Grade 9. For university study, you need matric with a suitable pass, because the university must admit you first.

Where NSFAS can fund you without matric

Programme	Entry	NSFAS
NC(V) Level 2 to 4 at a public TVET college	Grade 9	Yes, for eligible students
Occupational programmes at public TVET colleges	Set per programme	Yes, on approved programmes; allowances depend on the programme
Pre-Vocational Learning Programme	Grade 9 to 11	Recognised by NSFAS as a route into NC(V) Level 2
University programmes	Matric with a higher certificate pass or better	Not possible without matric
Private colleges	Any	No

The rules you still need to meet

• South African citizenship or permanent residence.
• Combined household income of R350,000 a year or less (R600,000 with a disability).
• Registration at a public TVET college.
• Satisfactory academic progress once you are studying.

How to apply

1. Apply for a place at a public TVET college. Find one in our directory of all 50 public TVET colleges.
2. Apply for NSFAS online during its application window.
3. Upload any documents NSFAS asks for, such as ID copies and the consent form.
4. Register at the college once you are accepted.

Occupational programmes differ: the Department of Higher Education and Training marks some as qualifying for NSFAS allowances and others, including several engineering trades, as not.

See also what you can study without matric and applying before you have your matric certificate.

Frequently asked questions