Which Courses Does NSFAS Fund?

At public TVET colleges, NSFAS funds tuition for eligible students in any DHET-approved programme. The real difference between courses is whether they come with NSFAS allowances. The Department of Higher Education and Training’s 2026 list of occupational qualifications marks this for each programme.

Occupational courses: allowances or not (DHET 2026 list)

With NSFAS allowances	Without NSFAS allowances
Chef; Cook	Electrician; Plumber
Hairdressing; Beauty Therapist	Welder; Boilermaker
Early Childhood Development	Millwright; Fitter and Turner
Computer Technician; Cybersecurity Analyst	Diesel Mechanic; Carpenter
Bookkeeper; Office Administrator; Management Assistant	Bricklayer; Mechanical Fitter
Solar Photovoltaic Service Technician	Aircraft Maintenance Mechanic
Supply Chain Practitioner; Transport Clerk	Vehicle Painter; Panel Beater

NC(V) and N-courses

• All NC(V) programmes at public colleges are NSFAS-fundable for eligible students.
• Six NC(V) programmes take no new Level 2 students from 2027 under DHET circular TC 0153, so new applicants cannot choose them.
• NATED N4 to N6 programmes are funded while they are still offered, but they are being phased out.

The DHET list does not explain why some programmes have no allowances. If your programme is in the right-hand column, ask your college how living and transport costs will be covered.

At universities

NSFAS funds first qualifications in any field at public universities, from higher certificates to first professional degrees. See qualifications NSFAS funds.

Frequently asked questions