After much anticipation, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has finally revealed and confirmed when applications for 2022 funding will be opening.
Higher Education, Science and Technology Minister, Blade Nzimande held a media briefing on Thursday morning to explain how the new cycle of NSFAS applications will work.
He confirmed that applications will be opening on Tuesday 2 November 2021, until 7 January 2022. This new application window will be running later than the usual period for NSFAS applications, which would usually run from September to November in previous application cycles.
Nzimande explained that this delay was as a result of NSFAS developing a new and more efficient application system. This new system will give applicants feedback in real time, ranging from immediate application feedback to 48 hours and beyond in some cases.
“I’m aware that there’s been some concern about the perceived late opening of applications this year. However, I’d like to reassure everyone and the country as a whole that this will in no way disadvantage those who seek NSFAS for support for their post-school studies”
In the meantime, students have been urged to familiarise themselves with the application requirements to be funded by NSFAS.
Who Qualifies for NSFAS?
- All South African citizens
- All SASSA grant recipients
- Applicants whose combined household income is not more than R350 000 per annum
- Person with disability: Combined household income must not be more than R600 000 per annum
- Students who started studying before 2018 whose household income is not more than R122 000 per annum.
Nzimande warned potential NSFAS applicants to beware of fake platforms asking for their personal details, as all NSFAS related information and updates will be available on the official NSFAS website.
“Beware of fake websites and social media platforms advising you to share your personal details and apply for NSFAS funding through links; these messages are NOT from NSFAS.”
