2025 NSFAS Loan Applicants to Receive Bursaries—Majority to Benefit from New Support. The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has declared that a huge number of students who applied for loans for the 2025 academic year are now eligible for bursaries. The financial assistance scheme is providing funding for more than a thousand students. In this article, you will find the necessary information about the bursaries, eligibility, and payment methods, guaranteeing students are ready for the academic year.

2025 NSFAS Loan Applicants to Receive Bursaries

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) announced that the majority of the NSFAS loan applicants are eligible for NSFAS bursaries. The NSFAS eligibility review process found that thousands of students meet the eligibility criteria for a change in the type of NSFAS funding they get. This change will be a boon for many applicants with household incomes under the set limit who now receive full bursaries instead of loans, ensuring better financial security for students in need.

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The NSFAS received 17,517 loan applications for the 2025 academic year. The application and number of applicants latest states are as follows:

Eligibility Criteria

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To be eligible to receive this payment, an individual must meet the eligibility criteria given below:

• South African citizens and permanent residents with a legal South African ID number will be considered.
• Applicants must be studying at a Public TVET College or University
• Students must be enrolled in qualifications that are included in the approved list for loan funding
• Household income must come to between R350 001 and R600 000 per annum
• The age limit of most NSFAS applicants should be under 30. Students with disabilities are exeption in this case.

Benefits of NSFAS Funding

NSFAS provides full financial support, including:

• Tuition Fees: The main purpose of NSFAS funding is to pay for tuition, guaranteeing that students can attend their preferred institutions without being concerned about upfront costs.
• Living Expenses: This includes accommodation, food, and transportation costs, necessary for students living away from home.
• Study Materials: NSFAS also covers the expenses of books, stationery items, and study materials.
• Transportation: NSFAS offers an allowance to help with transport costs for those students who need to travel between their home and their place of study.

How to Apply?

To apply for NSFAS, follow the simple steps given below:

• Create an NSFAS Profile: Visit the official website of NSFAS and create a profile. This will help you to track your application and receive important updates.
• Submit Necessary Documents: Gather all the required documents, such as proof of income, identity documents, and your academic records.
• Application: Normally, the applications open in August and close by November each year. Make sure you submit your application before the deadline.
• Wait for Confirmation: After your application is reviewed, you will receive feedback. If successful, you will be informed about your funding amount and the terms of your NSFAS support.

NSFAS TVET College Application Window

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NSFAS continues to examine applications received during the NSFAS TVET College students application window. Even if they start their studies at different points during the academic year, students in TCET colleges can still apply for funding during this window. The last application window closed in January 2025.

Ongoing Review of Applications

NSFAS is still in the process of examining applications for the 2025 academic year. The government funding body will continue to review all loan applications until funding decisions have been made for every applicant.

FAQs

How is the decision made by NSFAS about who qualifies for a bursary?

NSFAS reviews applicants’ household incomes to determine eligibility. If the household income is under the bursary threshold (R350,000), the student will qualify for a bursary.

How many NSFAS loan applicants are receiving bursaries in 2025?

Out of 17,517 applications, 16,013 applicants qualify for bursaries.

When will the final decision be made by NSFAS?

After all pending applications, the final decision will be announced by NSFAS.

Mark Delyn

Mark Delyn focuses on education, learning methods, and academic trends. Her work supports students, educators, and lifelong learners with practical and timely insights.