NSFAS News

NSFAS Beneficiaries Call On Minister To Pay Allowances

Published

5 months ago

April 15, 2024

NSFAS Beneficiaries Call On Minister To Pay Allowances

The South African Students Congress (SASCO) has intensified its call for the centralization of regional offices of the National Financial Assistance Scheme (NSFAS) across South Africa. In light of persistent delays in allowances, SASCO urges Minister of Higher Education and Training, Dr. Blade Nzimande, to swiftly address the concerns of NSFAS beneficiaries.

Centralization Of NSFAS Offices

SASCO advocates for the centralization of NSFAS regional offices to facilitate direct access for students facing issues or inquiries. Centralized offices would streamline communication and problem resolution processes for students across the country.

Delayed Allowances And Ministerial Action

With many students yet to receive their April allowances, SASCO demands urgent action from Minister Nzimande. The dissolution of the outgoing NSFAS board due to its failure to execute basic functions underscores the urgency of addressing the situation.

Demands And Ultimatum

During a media briefing in Pretoria, Minister Nzimande acknowledged the gravity of the situation and emphasized the need for swift resolution. SASCO presented a memorandum of demands, setting a deadline for NSFAS and the Minister to respond by Monday.

Support And Participation

The call for action has garnered support from various institutions, including the University of Pretoria, University of Johannesburg, Tshwane University of Technology, University of Limpopo, and TVET colleges. This widespread participation underscores the magnitude of the issue and the solidarity among students.

Escalation Of Protest

SASCO remains steadfast in its determination to ensure the fulfillment of their demands. Should NSFAS and Minister Nzimande fail to address their concerns by the stipulated deadline, SASCO threatens to escalate their protest to the Union Buildings.

Demand For Accountability

SASCO emphasizes the importance of accountability in the management of public funds, calling for the arrest of individuals implicated in corruption. Additionally, there are calls for the removal of Minister Nzimande and the four FinTech firms involved in the distribution of allowances.

NSFAS Response

NSFAS Chief Operating Officer, Errol Makhubela, acknowledges the concerns raised by students and assures prompt action. He commits to reviewing and responding to the demands presented in the memorandum.

Conclusion

The plight of NSFAS beneficiaries underscores the critical need for swift and decisive action from both NSFAS and the Ministry of Higher Education and Training. As the deadline looms, the ball is in the court of authorities to address the grievances of students and ensure timely disbursement of allowances to alleviate the financial hardships faced by many.

NSFAS News

When We Can Apply For NSFAS In 2025

Published

1 day ago

September 15, 2024

UIF Login

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!