NSFAS News

NSFAS Accused by UL SRC Of Taking Students For a Ride

Published

5 months ago

April 5, 2024

NSFAS Accused by UL SRC Of Taking Students For a Ride

In a recent development at the University of Limpopo (UL), Khutso Mamabolo, President of the Student Representative Council (SRC), has leveled serious accusations against the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).

Mamabolo’s allegations suggest that NSFAS’s actions are causing significant hardships for students, impeding their ability to pursue education effectively. This article delves into the details of Mamabolo’s claims, shedding light on the challenges faced by UL students due to issues with NSFAS allowances.

Challenges Faced by UL Students

The UL SRC President, Mamabolo, has brought to light the plight of students who are struggling due to delays and inconsistencies in NSFAS allowances. One of the primary concerns raised by Mamabolo is the impact of these financial setbacks on students’ academic pursuits.

Mamabolo contends that expecting students to attend classes without adequate financial support, especially when essential needs such as food are not met, is unjust and unsustainable.

Suspension Of Academic Activities

The gravity of the situation is underscored by the university’s decision to suspend academic activities. This drastic measure reflects the severity of the issues related to NSFAS allowances, which have evidently reached a critical juncture.

The disruption caused by the suspension underscores the urgency for swift resolution to ensure students can resume their studies without further interruption.

Outstanding Allowances And Accreditation Processes

Mamabolo’s assertions regarding NSFAS’s failure to disburse the full amount of allowances owed to students highlight a systemic issue affecting countless students. Moreover, Mamabolo draws attention to the plight of off-campus students who have yet to receive their allowances due to accreditation processes.

These bureaucratic hurdles in processing payments directly to landlords further exacerbate the financial strain experienced by students.

UL SRC Efforts And NSFAS Response

Despite UL SRC proactive measures, including written correspondence and engagement attempts with NSFAS, Mamabolo laments the lack of a satisfactory response from the organization. The SRC’s efforts to advocate for students’ rights and expedite the resolution of allowance issues have been met with apparent indifference from NSFAS.

This lack of responsiveness not only hampers progress but also adds to the frustration and disillusionment among students.

Conclusion

The allegations raised by Khutso Mamabolo against NSFAS paint a troubling picture of the challenges faced by UL students. The failure to promptly address issues related to allowances not only jeopardizes students’ academic pursuits but also undermines their overall well-being. Urgent intervention is necessary to rectify the situation and ensure that students receive the financial support they are entitled to.

It is imperative for NSFAS to prioritize effective communication and expedite the resolution of outstanding allowance payments to mitigate further disruptions to students’ education and livelihoods.

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!