NSFAS receives more than 100 000 applications for 2020 academic year

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has, since applications opened on 1 September, received more than 141 933 applications nationally for the 2020 academic year.
On average, NSFAS has been receiving more than 4 000 applications a day, with the number going as high as 6 000 a day on peak weeks.
According to Phathisa Ntlonze, Media Liaison Officer at the scheme they had by 30 September, received 27 455 applications more than in the comparative period last year when 101 545 had been received.
Upon entering its second month, the NSFAS application cycle has officially opened applications for Grade 9 to 12 learners and youth who wish to further their studies at any Technical and Vocational Education and Training (Tvet) college in the country during the 2020 academic year. Prospective applicants have until 30 November to apply for funding.
“We held a roadshow in September with the purpose of reaching out to learners and out of school youth who need NSFAS funding but have challenges with accessing the application resources. Applications are submitted online by creating an account on the NSFAS website.”
Ntlonze said applicants with an existing account can sign in using their user name and password or Facebook or Google accounts. “Students can also submit their applications using their smartphones. It is important to note that applicants should have working cell phone numbers and a valid email address before applying,” she explained.
To qualify for NSFAS funding for university and Tvet college studies, the applicant should be a South African citizen intending to enrol at any of the 26 public universities or any of the 50 Tvet colleges in the country. “He or she must be coming from a family with combined household income of R350 000 per annum and up to R600 000 per annum if the applicant has a disability. The applicant should not have received NSFAS funding in 2019. Those who were successfully funded previously are automatically funded for 2020, provided they meet academic requirements. It is important for applicants to attach all required supporting documents when submitting an application. Submitting all the required documents will enable NSFAS to process the application timeously. If you are self-sufficient and employed please provide a proof of income, payslip or appointment letter,” Ntlonze concluded.

Story: Herbert Rachuene
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