NSFAS extends 2024 applications deadline for financial aid

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has announced the extension of the application deadline for student financial aid to 15 February 2024.

The decision emerged following a productive meeting between the NSFAS board, under the leadership of Acting Board Chairperson Professor Laurens Van Staden, and the South African Union of Students (SAUS), led by President Yandisa Ndzoyiya.

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During the meeting, both parties agreed on the necessity of extending the 2024 bursary application period. The NSFAS Loan Scheme will also be open for applications from 2 February 2024 to 15 February 2024. Providing further financial assistance to eligible students.

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NSFAS BROADENS SUPPORT WITH COMPREHENSIVE STUDENT FUNDING

Under the newly introduced Comprehensive Student Funding Model, the NSFAS aims to broaden its support to students. Including those who were not covered by the previous bursary and funding policy. This includes students from families with an annual income ranging from R350 000 to R600 000.

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In a joint statement issued on Thursday, it was clarified that students who have already applied for the NSFAS bursary scheme need not submit a new application for the student loan scheme.

“All students who did not meet the bursary scheme eligibility criteria, however, meet the loan scheme eligibility criteria, will be automatically offered a loan for their consideration,” the statement said.

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Prospective loan scheme applicants can conveniently apply through an online application form available on the NSFAS website. To be eligible for the loan, students must meet certain criteria, including specific household income brackets. Enrollment in TVET or public universities, and willingness to sign a loan agreement.

2024 APPLICATIONS: DEADLINE NEARS, CONSENT CRUCIAL

NSFAS emphasises the importance of submitting a consent form to verify information from third parties, such as employment status and income levels of parents, guardians, or spouses.

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Download and upload this form through the NSFAS website, portal, or mobile app. As the deadline approaches, we encourage aspiring students to seize this extended opportunity for financial aid.