The NSFAS 2023 online application cycle opened on 28 September 2022 and will close on 31 January 2023. This year’s cycle opened much earlier compared to last year’s cycle.
Furthermore, the application system has been simplified and enhanced, according to a recent media briefing by Higher Education, Science and Innovation Minister Dr Blade Nzimande.
“The application process itself has been simplified and the questions asked are easier to understand by the public. Additionally, applicants can pause the process and continue at a later stage without restarting from scratch, something that was not possible in previous cycles,” Dr Nzimande explained.
In addition to the NSFAS online portal, there are also new application channels such as a mobile app, USSD and WhatsApp. Applicants can also track or cancel their applications via these channels.
How to start your NSFAS 2023 online application
You need to first create a new account on the portal before starting your NSFAS 2023 online application. To create an account, follow the steps below:
- Visit the MyNSFAS portal and click “Create account.”
- Fill in the required details, which include name and surname, ID number, cellphone number, and email address.
- Accept the terms and conditions, create a password, tick the “I am not a robot” box, and then click “Create account.”
- Upload a copy of your ID or birth certificate. If you’re using a smart ID card, make sure to upload both sides.
You’re will then receive email confirmation upon successful creation of your account. Therefore, make sure the email address you use is the one you have direct and everyday access to.
How to apply for NSFAS 2023
Once you have created an account, you can apply for NSFAS 2023 funding by following the steps below:
- Log into your MyNSFAS account and click “Apply.”
- Fill in your father’s, mother’s, spouse’s or guardian’s details. Fill in only where it applies to you. If a field does not apply to you, click “Next” to proceed.
- Once you have completed all the required fields, you will be required to upload supporting documents for your application. Click “Next” once you have completed this step.
- You will then be required to confirm if your details and supporting documents are correct. Once you’re satisfied that everything is in order, click “Submit” to complete your online application.
Who qualifies for NSFAS funding
You qualify for NSFAS funding if you are a South African citizen or permanent resident and plan to register, or are already studying, at a public university or TVET college in South Africa. In addition, you need to fall within one or more of the following categories:
- SASSA grant recipients.
- Persons whose combined household income is not more than R350,000 per year.
- Persons living with disabilities with a combined household income not more than R600,000 per annum.
- Student who begun their university studies before 2018 and their household income is not more than R122 000 per annum.
NSFAS required supporting documents
NSFAS applicants will be required to provide the following supporting documents:
- Copy of your ID or birth certificate.
- ID copies of parents, guardian or spouse (If applicable).
- Your proof of income or 1 year’s IRP5 (if applicable).
- Your parents, guardian or spouse’s proof of income.
- If you are a SASSA grant recipient, no proof of income will be required.
- Applicants with a disability must submit a completed and signed Disability Annexure A Form, which you can download here.
- An applicant who is recognised as a Vulnerable Child by the Department of Social Development must provide a completed and signed Vulnerable Child Declaration and Consent Form, which you can download here.
According to Dr Nzimande, NSFAS will start an “outreach campaign” to assist applicants who do not have access to the internet or devices (cellphone, tablet or computer).
Successful applicants will receive funding for accommodation, transport, living allowance, book allowance, and incident/personal care allowance. UNISA students may also receive tuition funding.
For more information, call the NSFAS toll-free number on 08000 67327 or email info@nsfas.org.za. Additionally, you can visit their website’s frequently-asked-questions page.