2018 extended NSFAS grant application process for Unisa students
In December 2017, President Zuma announced increased funding through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) for first-time entering TVET college or university students from South African households with a combined annual income of up to R350 000.
What does this mean?
- If you are a first-time entering student, and your application for the 2018 NSFAS funding is approved, NSFAS will pay your 2018 student fees to Unisa.
- If you are an existing NSFAS grantee, your NSFAS loan will be converted to a grant (bursary) that does not need to be re-paid to NSFAS.
- If you are an existing student but are not a NSFAS grantee, you will need to pay your own student fees.
Although the threshold to qualify for NSFAS assistance has been increased from R122 000 to R350 000, this only applies to new students (not returning students) in 2018. The extended funding (for a returning student with a combined annual household income of less than R350 000) will be phased in over the next five years.