NSFAS
The National Students Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a bursary scheme that helps fund students from disadvantaged homes. Image: File

Home » Here’s how to track the status of your NSFAS application

Here’s how to track the status of your NSFAS application

You can quickly check the status of your application in just a few steps on the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) website.

By Tarryn Adonis
11-12-24 11:03
in Featured
NSFAS
The National Students Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a bursary scheme that helps fund students from disadvantaged homes. Image: File

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) supports South African students from low-income households. If you are planning to apply for 2025, checking your NSFAS status regularly is essential.

Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Buti Manamela, has urged students to apply before the 15 December deadline.

NSFAS has since uploaded a detailed post on their X account about how you can apply for the 2025 student year.

How to Check Your Application Status:

This guide will walk you through the process of checking your NSFAS status online, understanding the outcomes, and knowing what to do if your application is declined.

To begin, go to the official NSFAS website at www.nsfas.org.za. On the homepage, locate the “myNSFAS Student Portal” tab.

Log in to Your myNSFAS Account

Next, log in using your South African ID number and password. If you do not have an account, click on “Create Account” to register. You will need your ID number, a valid email address, and a secure password to complete the setup.

Accessing Your Dashboard

Once logged in, navigate to your dashboard. Click on the “Check Your Application Status” button. This will allow you to view the current progress of your NSFAS application.

Review Your NSFAS Status

Your NSFAS status will appear on the screen. It will show one of the following outcomes:

  • Approved: Your application was successful. You can proceed with your institution’s registration process.
  • Declined: Your application did not meet NSFAS funding requirements.

Follow Up if Necessary

If your application is declined, do not panic. An easy follow-up with NSFAS is needed to find out the reason for the rejection. You may also submit an appeal if you believe the decision is unfair.

Who Can Appeal a Declined NSFAS Application?

If your NSFAS application is declined, you will still be able to appeal. However, appeals are only accepted under specific conditions:

  • If you have missing documents or there are minor errors, your application will be declined.
  • If serious circumstances affected your academic performance.

Who Cannot Appeal?

Unfortunately, not all situations qualify for an appeal. You cannot appeal if:

  • Your qualification is not covered by NSFAS funding. NSFAS only funds undergraduate courses at public universities and TVET colleges.
  • You exceeded the N+2 Rule. This rule allows funding for the standard duration of your programme (N) plus an additional two years. Students with disabilities get an extra year (N+3).
  • You failed to meet the required academic standards and there were no valid extenuating circumstances.
  • Registration issues occurred due to your institution’s delay or error. In such cases, contact your institution directly.

Contact NSFAS for Help

If you need further assistance, NSFAS offers multiple contact options:

Staying Informed

Checking your NSFAS status regularly is key to staying informed. By following the steps above, you can monitor your application’s progress and take quick action when needed. Whether your status is approved, declined, or pending, staying updated ensures you make well-informed decisions about your studies.

If you encounter any challenges, do not hesitate to reach out to NSFAS. They are ready to assist you. By staying proactive, you can secure the funding you need for a successful academic future.

Tags: DMumani featured Important NSFAS Student Fees