NSFAS News

NAFAS Board Member Nominations Are Invited

Published

1 month ago

August 15, 2024

NAFAS Board Member Nominations Are Invited. The Minister of Higher Education and Training, Nobuhle Nkabane, has officially opened the nomination process for individuals to serve on the board of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). This crucial step invites qualified professionals to contribute to the future of higher education funding in South Africa. The nomination period began on 13 August 2024 and will close on Tuesday, 3 September 2024.

How To Submit Nominations

Nominations can be submitted via email or post:

Email: Send nominations to Ms. K Matjane at [email protected].
Postal Mail: Send nominations to Private Bag X 174, Pretoria, 0001, addressed to Ms. K Matjane.

It is essential that all nominations reach the designated contact person before the closing date to be considered valid.

Composition Of The NSFAS Board

The NSFAS board plays a critical role in overseeing the allocation of financial aid to eligible students pursuing higher education. The board consists of 18 members:

13 members are appointed by the Minister of Higher Education and Training.
4 members are co-opted by the existing board members.
1 member is appointed by the NSFAS CEO.

These appointments are made in accordance with Section 5 (1)(a)(b) and (c) of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme Act.

Term And Remuneration Of NSFAS Board Members

NSFAS board members serve a four-year term. During this period, they are expected to contribute their expertise to the governance and strategic direction of the scheme. Remuneration for board members is aligned with the National Treasury guidelines, ensuring fair compensation for their service.

Qualifications And Experience Required For Nominees

Nominees for the NSFAS board must meet stringent qualifications and possess relevant experience to ensure the board’s effectiveness in its duties. The minimum qualification required is a Master’s degree. Additionally, nominees must have a proven track record in one or more of the following areas:

Finance
Law
Ethics
Economics
Sciences (Social and Natural Sciences)
Public Administration
Governance
Engineering
Higher Education

The selection of board members is based on their qualifications, knowledge, and experience, ensuring that they can contribute meaningfully to the NSFAS’s mission.

Required Documentation For Nominations

Nominations must be accompanied by the following documents:

Curriculum Vitae (CV) of the nominee, detailing their qualifications and experience.
Letter of Consent from the nominee, confirming their willingness to serve on the NSFAS board if appointed.

About The NSFAS

The NSFAS is a statutory body established to manage and allocate financial aid to deserving students pursuing higher education in South Africa. Its responsibilities include:

Developing criteria and conditions for granting loans and bursaries.
Raising additional funds to support its mandate.
Recovering loans from beneficiaries.
Maintaining and analyzing a comprehensive database of financial aid recipients.
Conducting research to optimize the use of financial resources.
Advising the Minister of Higher Education and Training on matters related to student financial aid.
Performing additional functions as assigned by the Minister.

Conclusion

The nomination process for NSFAS board members is a vital step in ensuring that the scheme continues to provide essential financial support to South Africa’s students. Qualified professionals are encouraged to submit their nominations by 3 September 2024, to play a part in shaping the future of higher education funding in the country. This is an opportunity to contribute to a cause that directly impacts the lives of countless students and the broader educational landscape.

NSFAS News

When We Can Apply For NSFAS In 2025

Published

1 day ago

September 15, 2024

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When We Can Apply For NSFAS. The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a beacon of hope for many students seeking financial support to pursue higher education in South Africa. As we look forward to the 2025 academic year, it’s crucial for prospective students to be aware of the application timeline and eligibility requirements to maximize their chances of receiving funding. Here’s everything you need to know about applying for NSFAS in 2025.

NSFAS Application Opening Date for 2025

The NSFAS application period for the 2025 academic year is set to begin on Tuesday, 17 September 2024. This is the key date when the application portal will open, allowing eligible students to submit their applications. It’s advisable to apply as early as possible to ensure your application is processed promptly and to avoid any last-minute issues.

Eligibility Requirements

Before diving into the application process, it’s important to determine if you meet the NSFAS eligibility criteria. Here’s a breakdown of the requirements:

Citizenship: Applicants must be South African citizens.
Institution Registration: You must be registered or planning to register at a public university or TVET college.
Household Income: Your household’s combined annual income must not exceed R350,000.
Academic Requirements: You should meet the academic requirements of the institution you wish to attend.
Previous Funding: You must not have previously received NSFAS funding.
Postgraduate Studies: NSFAS does not fund postgraduate studies. If you are looking for funding for a postgraduate course, consider applying through the National Research Foundation (NRF).

Who Does Not Qualify?

While NSFAS aims to support as many students as possible, there are specific groups who are not eligible for funding:

Household Income: Students from households with an annual income exceeding R350,000 are not eligible.
Existing Funding: Students who have already received full study funding from other bursary sources cannot apply.
Second Undergraduate Degree: If you already have an undergraduate qualification and wish to pursue a second one, you cannot apply.
Private Institutions: Students enrolled in private higher education institutions are ineligible.
Non-Approved Qualifications: If your qualification is not approved by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) or is not SAQA accredited, you cannot apply.
Second Certificate: Students who have obtained a certificate qualification and wish to study for a second certificate are not eligible.

What Does NSFAS Cover?

NSFAS provides a comprehensive bursary package that includes:

Registration Fees: Full coverage of your registration fees.
Tuition Fees: Payment of your tuition fees.
Book Allowance: Financial support for purchasing books and other academic materials.
Accommodation: Coverage for accommodation or living expenses.

How to Apply

To apply for NSFAS funding for 2025, follow these steps:

Prepare Your Documents: Ensure you have all necessary documents ready, including proof of income, identity documents, and academic records.
Visit the NSFAS Website: Go to the official NSFAS website on 17 September 2024 to access the application portal.
Complete the Application Form: Fill out the application form with accurate information. Be sure to double-check all details before submitting.
Submit Your Application: Once you have completed the form, submit it through the NSFAS portal. You may need to upload supporting documents as part of the application process.
Track Your Application: After submission, monitor the status of your application through the NSFAS portal to stay updated on any additional requirements or next steps.

Conclusion

The NSFAS application for the 2025 academic year opens on 17 September 2024, and it’s essential for prospective students to prepare and apply early. Understanding the eligibility requirements and the details of what NSFAS covers will help you navigate the application process smoothly. By ensuring you meet the criteria and submitting a complete application, you can take a significant step towards securing the financial support needed to achieve your academic goals. Good luck with your application, and may your journey towards higher education be a successful one!