NSFAS Applications Closed and Alternative Funding for Students

Application for the 2025 Academic year closed at Midnight on the 15th of December. Image: NSFAS.

(The Post News)– The deadline for prospective students to apply for the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has officially closed. Applications, which commenced on September 20th, were halted at midnight on December 15, 2024, for the 2025 academic year. This unexpected early closure has raised significant concerns among students who depend on this funding to pursue their higher education aspirations.

Higher Education and Training Minister, Dr. Nobuhle Nkabane, has issued a decisive final call to all eligible candidates, urging them to submit their applications before the deadline to avoid disappointment. She stated that their priority is to improve access across the country, with NSFAS having a presence on all campuses when the academic year commences. “We are actively regionalizing our services to expand access for all, ensuring no one is left behind,” said Nkabane.

Earlier this year, the minister assured the public of her department’s unwavering commitment to fully support students in the upcoming academic year in collaboration with NSFAS. She conducted outreach efforts at Nkangala Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) College’s Middelburg Campus, emphasizing the importance of applying for funding.

The premature closing of applications has left many potential candidates scrambling, particularly those who were unaware of the revised deadline. This situation could severely undermine the plans of students, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds who might lack access to timely information and resources.

For those who submitted an application but received a rejection, NSFAS has established an appeal process. Students have 30 days from the date of receiving their application results to pursue an appeal. To begin this process, applicants must log into their myNSFAS account and follow the specified steps.

Currently, NSFAS has not announced any intent to extend applications into January, diverging from previous years when deadlines were occasionally extended or reopened. Students should actively monitor the official NSFAS website and its communications for any updates.

For students interested in a teaching career, the Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme offers a strong alternative. Applications for the 2025 academic year opened on October 10 and will close on January 26, 2025. This bursary provides comprehensive coverage of essential expenses for teaching students, including tuition, accommodation, and learning materials.

Prospective students who missed the NSFAS application deadline must take immediate action:

Explore Alternative Funding: Investigate other bursaries and scholarships still accepting applications through various bursary websites.

Stay Informed: Regularly check the NSFAS and the Department of Higher Education and Training’s official website and social media channels for announcements regarding funding opportunities or changes in application procedures.

Prepare for Future Applications: Ensure all information and necessary documents are organized for upcoming application windows to avoid missing any deadlines.

While the early closure of NSFAS applications presents a considerable challenge, students are encouraged to proactively seek alternative funding sources and remain vigilant regarding any potential changes or opportunities that may arise. For further information or to check for updates, visit the official NSFAS website: https://www.nsfas.org.za/.