NSFAS News

NSFAS Reports Needed By Portfolio Committee

Published

3 weeks ago

August 28, 2024

NSFAS Reports Needed By Portfolio Committee. The chairperson of the portfolio committee on higher education and training, Tebogo Letsie, has called for increased accountability from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). In a recent development, Letsie requested NSFAS administrator Freeman Nomvalo to submit monthly reports to the committee. These reports are to include detailed progress on the 2025 application process, among other critical updates.

Request For Monthly Reports

Tebogo Letsie, an ANC MP and the chairperson of the portfolio committee on higher education and training, emphasized the importance of regular updates from NSFAS. He specifically asked Nomvalo to provide monthly reports that will allow the committee to track the progress of the 2025 application process. Additionally, Letsie requested updates on all work related to Nomvalo’s terms of reference as the NSFAS administrator.

Oversight And Accounta@bility

While Nomvalo is obligated to submit reports to the Minister of Higher Education and Training, Dr. Nobuhle Nkabane, Letsie clarified that the portfolio committee also has the authority to request reports. This measure is intended to enhance the committee’s oversight role.

“Though we are an oversight body, for those who watch soccer, there is something called VAR (video assistant referee)… We are going to do oversight with VAR application. We are not going to wait for things to get bad before we intervene,” Letsie stated. This analogy underscores the committee’s commitment to proactive oversight rather than reactive measures.

NSFAS Payments To Accommodation Providers

During the session, Nomvalo provided an update on the financial operations of NSFAS, revealing that the scheme had made payments amounting to R1.6 billion to private accommodation providers. Specifically, R311 million was paid to NSFAS-accredited TVET college accommodation providers, while R1.297 billion went to NSFAS-accredited university accommodation providers.

However, Nomvalo acknowledged that there had been significant delays in some payments. These delays were primarily due to non-compliance with NSFAS criteria regarding the placement of students in privately-owned accommodations. He also noted that some delays were caused by lease agreements not being signed on time by both parties involved.

Causes Of Payment Delays

Nomvalo further explained that late submission of registration data by institutions, late funding decisions by NSFAS, and incorrect invoicing were among the other factors contributing to payment delays. These challenges have caused disruptions for both students and accommodation providers.

To address these issues, Nomvalo announced that NSFAS is in the process of finalizing the verification of students housed at accommodation providers who did not follow the proper procedures. This verification process is expected to streamline future payments and prevent similar delays.

Student Appeals And 2025 Applications

In addition to financial updates, Nomvalo reported on the status of student appeals. NSFAS received a total of 94,469 appeals, with 63% of them already resolved. This indicates progress in addressing student concerns and ensuring that eligible students receive the support they need.

Looking ahead, Nomvalo confirmed that applications for the 2025 academic year will open on September 1. He assured the committee that all funding decisions for the new academic year will be finalized by the end of December, ensuring a timely start to the academic year for students.

Conclusion

The portfolio committee’s request for regular NSFAS reports reflects a growing demand for transparency and accountability in the administration of student financial aid. With proactive oversight measures in place, the committee aims to ensure that NSFAS operations run smoothly, benefiting both students and service providers. As NSFAS moves forward with its plans for 2025, these reports will play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and efficiency of the scheme.

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!