NSFAS helps many South African students from disadvantaged backgrounds by providing financial support to enable them pursue their tertiary education.
Applying for NSFAS funding can seem challenging, but this guide will walk you through the entire process using the myNSFAS online portal.
How to Apply for myNSFAS
The application process is designed to be user-friendly. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
- Register or Re-register: Visit the NSFAS website and click on “myNSFAS” in the top right corner. Existing users can log in with their username and password. New users will need to click “Register” and provide their ID number, names, email address, phone number, and a secure password. Remember to tick the box allowing NSFAS to verify your details.
- Complete your Profile: Once registered, head to the “My Profile” section and ensure all your personal information is accurate and up-to-date. This includes your contact details, residential address, and next-of-kin information.
- Academic Information: Under the “Academic Details” section, select the type of qualification you’re applying for (diploma, degree, etc.) and choose the institution you plan to attend. Make sure the institution offers NSFAS-funded programs in your chosen field.
- Supporting Documents: Upload clear copies of all required documents, including your ID book, proof of income for yourself and your parents/guardian, and any disability documentation (if applicable).
- Review and Submit: Carefully review your entire application to ensure all information is correct and complete. Once satisfied, click “Submit” to send your application to NSFAS for processing.
Remember that the application deadline for NSFAS funding is usually around September each year.
How Do I Update My myNSFAS Profile?
Keeping your myNSFAS profile updated is very essential. This is how to make changes:
- Log in to your myNSFAS account using your username and password.
- Click on “My Profile” in the navigation menu.
- You can now edit various aspects of your profile, such as contact details, residential address, and next-of-kin information.
- Once you’ve made the necessary changes, click “Save” to update your profile.
It’s advisable to update your contact information regularly, especially your phone number and email address.
This ensures NSFAS can reach you easily with important updates about your application status or funding disbursement.
How do you know If NSFAS has accepted you?
After submitting your application, you’ll receive updates on its status through your myNSFAS account and the email address you provided.
NSFAS will notify you within a few months of the application deadline.
These are the possible application statuses you might notice:
- Applied: This simply means you’ve submitted your application.
- Awaiting Documents: NSFAS requires additional documents from you. Check your account for details on what’s missing.
- Assessment in Progress: Your application is being reviewed.
- Application Funded: Congratulations, you’ve been awarded NSFAS funding.
- Application Unsuccessful: Unfortunately, your application wasn’t successful this time. You can check your account for the reason and re-apply in the following year if you meet the eligibility criteria.
How do I access my NSFAS allowance?
NSFAS disbursements are usually made directly into your bank account. To ensure smooth access to your allowance, ensure you:
- Have a Valid Bank Account: You’ll need a South African bank account registered in your name.
- Link Your Bank Account: Log in to your myNSFAS account and go to the “Financial Details” section. Here, you can link your bank account details to receive your NSFAS allowance electronically.
NSFAS disbursements occur at the beginning of each academic semester. The specific dates may vary depending on the institution you attend.