Why am I not funded by NSFAS?

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is vital for many South African students who are attending TVET Colleges.

Receiving an NSFAS rejection can be disheartening, leaving you wondering where to go from here.

This article will help you figure out the reasons you might not be funded by NSFAS and help you understand the process and explore alternative funding options.

What are the NSFAS Eligibility Criteria?

NSFAS prioritizes supporting underprivileged students pursuing studies at public universities and TVET Colleges.

However, eligibility extends beyond simply attending a public institution.

Here are some main factors that determine your NSFAS funding status:

1. Household Income: NSFAS has income thresholds. If your household income falls above a certain level, you might not qualify for financial aid. You can find the latest income thresholds on the NSFAS website.
   
2. Academic History: Past academic performance can impact your eligibility. NSFAS considers your matric results and any previous tertiary studies. If you have a history of failing subjects or exceeding the National Financial Aid Scheme: Funding Policy (NSFAS: FP) timeframe for completing your qualification (N+2 for undergraduate degrees, N+3 for students with disabilities), you might not be funded.
   
3. Course of Study: NSFAS doesn’t fund all programs. It prioritizes qualifications aligned with South Africa’s scarce and critical skills. If your chosen course doesn’t fall under this category, you might not receive funding.
   
4. Citizenship Status: Only South African citizens or permanent residents with valid permits qualify for NSFAS funding.
   
5. Previous NSFAS Funding: If you’ve previously received NSFAS funding and haven’t completed your qualification within the allocated timeframe, you’ll need to demonstrate exceptional circumstances to qualify for renewed funding.

Why you are not funded by NSFAS

Let’s look at some of the most common reasons why your NSFAS application might be unsuccessful:

1. Incomplete Application: A complete and accurate application is crucial. Ensure you submit all required documents on time. Missing documents or discrepancies can delay processing or lead to rejection. Double-check your application for any errors before submitting it.
   
2. Course Not Funded: NSFAS prioritizes specific programs. If your chosen course doesn’t align with their funding priorities, you won’t be eligible. Research NSFAS-funded programs before applying to a TVET College course.
   
3. Household Income Exceeds Threshold: If your household income surpasses the set threshold, you might not qualify for funding. Consider appealing the decision if there are significant financial changes within your household that weren’t reflected in your application.
   
4. Academic Performance: A history of poor academic performance or exceeding the N+2/N+3 timeframe can disqualify you. If there were extenuating circumstances that affected your studies, you can provide documented proof while appealing the decision.

What to Do if You’re Not Funded

Receiving a “Not Funded” notification from NSFAS isn’t the end of the road.

These are some steps you can take:

1. Appeal the Decision: You have the right to appeal NSFAS’s decision within 30 days of receiving the notification. Gather documentation to support your appeal, such as proof of income changes or extenuating circumstances that impacted your academic performance.
   
2. Consider Other Funding Options: There are various financial aid options available, including bursaries offered by private companies, government departments, or NGOs. Research scholarships and bursaries specifically for TVET College students. Some TVET Colleges offer their own financial aid programs. Contact your college’s financial aid office for more information.
   
3. Consider a Part-Time Job: Working part-time can help offset your education costs. Balancing work and studies can be challenging, but effective time management can help you succeed.
   
4. Defer Your Studies: If other funding options are unavailable, consider deferring your studies for a year. This allows you to generate income and save for your education costs.

Can NSFAS fund postgraduate studies at TVET Colleges?

No, NSFAS does not provide funding for postgraduate qualifications at TVET Colleges or universities.

NSFAS prioritizes supporting full-time students to ensure they can dedicate themselves fully to their studies.

Part-time studies are not currently covered by NSFAS funding.

What documents do I need to submit with my NSFAS application?

The required documents can vary depending on your circumstances.

However, they usually include your ID document, proof of income for your household, and your latest academic results.