VerifiedYou can study with NSFAS at any of South Africa’s 26 public universities and 50 public TVET colleges, on an approved first qualification. You cannot use NSFAS at private colleges, private universities or unaccredited providers.
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Where NSFAS applies
| Institution type | How many | NSFAS? |
|---|---|---|
| Public universities (traditional, comprehensive and universities of technology) | 26 | Yes |
| Public TVET colleges | 50 | Yes |
| Private colleges and private higher education institutions | No |
The 26 public universities
Cape Peninsula UT, Central UT, Durban UT, Mangosuthu UT, Tshwane UT, Vaal UT; Nelson Mandela, Johannesburg, Unisa, Venda, Walter Sisulu, Zululand; North-West, Rhodes, Sefako Makgatho, Sol Plaatje, Stellenbosch, Cape Town, Fort Hare, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, Pretoria, Free State, Western Cape, Witwatersrand.
What you can study
- At universities: first higher certificates, diplomas and bachelor’s degrees, up to NQF Level 8. Not postgraduate study.
- At TVET colleges: PLP, NC(V), Report 191 up to N6, and DHET-approved occupational programmes.
Being registered is not the same as being public. Private institutions registered with DHET are still not NSFAS-funded.
Apply at nsfas.org.za. Find public colleges in our list of public TVET colleges and see universities NSFAS funds.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use NSFAS at a private college?
No. NSFAS funds students at public universities and public TVET colleges only.
How many institutions does NSFAS fund?
The 26 public universities and 50 public TVET colleges.