{"id":159,"date":"2024-04-12T20:32:47","date_gmt":"2024-04-12T20:32:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bursariesafrica.co.za\/unisa\/?page_id=159"},"modified":"2026-09-17T13:47:28","modified_gmt":"2026-09-17T13:47:28","slug":"does-nsfas-fund-higher-certificates","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.bursariesafrica.co.za\/unisa\/does-nsfas-fund-higher-certificates\/","title":{"rendered":"Does NSFAS Fund Higher Certificates?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

If you’re considering a Higher Certificate at the UNISA, you might be wondering if NSFAS funding applies to your chosen qualification. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This article will explore the eligibility of Higher Certificates for NSFAS funding and provide answers to some frequently asked questions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What are Higher Certificates?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Higher Certificates (HCs) are qualifications offered by universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges in South Africa. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

They fall on National Qualifications Framework (NQF) Level 5, typically requiring one year of full-time study to complete. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

HCs equip students with specialized skills and knowledge relevant to specific careers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Does NSFAS Fund Higher Certificates at Unisa?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Yes, NSFAS funding is available for qualifying students pursuing Higher Certificates at Unisa. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

These are the NSFAS eligibility for HCs:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    \n
  1. Public institutions: NSFAS primarily supports students enrolled in public universities and TVET colleges. Unisa, being a public university, falls under this category.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  2. First qualification: NSFAS prioritizes funding students pursuing their first undergraduate qualification. So, if you haven’t obtained a Higher Certificate, Diploma, or Degree before, your HC at Unisa will likely be eligible for NSFAS funding.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

    Can I get NSFAS funding for a Higher Certificate if I have a Diploma?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

    NSFAS doesn’t fund students pursuing a second Higher Certificate or qualification<\/a> at the same NQF level. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    However, there might be exceptions for specific circumstances. It’s advisable to contact NSFAS directly for clarification on your situation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    What does NSFAS cover for Higher Certificates at Unisa?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

    NSFAS funding for HCs at Unisa covers tuition fees, with some allowances depending on your financial situation. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    At Unisa, these are a learning material allowance and, if you register for a full-time-equivalent load of 120 credits, a personal care allowance. Unisa students do not get living, accommodation, transport or meal allowances. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    The specific details of your funding package will be communicated by NSFAS after a successful application.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    How do I apply for NSFAS funding for a Higher Certificate at Unisa?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

    The application process for NSFAS funding involves:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      \n
    1. Meeting the eligibility criteria: This includes South African citizenship, financial need, and academic requirements.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    2. Completing the online application form: NSFAS announces its application dates each year. The 2027 dates had not been announced by 17 September 2026. Make sure you gather all required supporting documents before applying.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    3. Submitting your application: Once completed, submit your application electronically through the NSFAS portal and wait for the funding decision.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

      What are the deadlines for NSFAS funding for a Higher Certificate at Unisa?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

      NSFAS announces its application dates each year. The 2027 dates had not been announced by 17 September 2026, so check www.nsfas.org.za for updates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      It’s important for you to adhere to these deadlines to ensure your application is considered.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      What are the eligibility criteria for NSFAS funding?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

      To be eligible for NSFAS funding, you must meet the following criteria:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        \n
      1. Be a South African citizen.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      2. Demonstrate financial need.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      3. Be registered for a program approved by NSFAS at a public university or TVET college.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      4. Meet the academic requirements for your chosen program.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

        What documents do I need to submit for my NSFAS application?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

        The required documents for your NSFAS application may change slightly depending on your circumstances. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

        However, some common documents include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

          \n
        1. Your South African ID book.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        2. Proof of income for yourself and your parents\/guardian.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        3. Your school report or latest academic transcript.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        4. Proof of disability (if applicable).<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n

          How will I know if I have been approved for NSFAS funding?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

          NSFAS will notify you of their decision via email or SMS. You can also check your application status online through the NSFAS website<\/a>.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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