NSFAS Applications for 2024 – New ways to apply
South Africa’s largest bursary scheme, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), has officially opened applications for the 2024 academic year, marking a significant step in improving accessibility for students seeking financial assistance. Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Innovation Blade Nzimande commended the enhancements made by NSFAS, emphasizing that these changes are designed to simplify the application process. The 2024 application period, which began on Tuesday, November 21, 2023, is expected to attract thousands of students and prospective applicants. Please note, applications will close on the January 31, 2024
NSFAS Appplications for 2024 using Mobile app
Minister Nzimande, during a briefing with stakeholders, highlighted the readiness of NSFAS to administer bursaries and the overall improvements implemented by the scheme. One major development is the introduction of a mobile application for the 2024 applications, available on iOS, Android, and HUAWEI devices, aiming to streamline the application process. The application will also feature biometric capabilities, slated for release later in the year.
NSFAS Applications 2024 check status
To ensure a seamless experience for applicants, NSFAS has refined its digital strategy, enhancing the myNSFAS student portal and providing increased options for checking application statuses. Students can utilize WhatsApp (078 519 8006) and USSD (*120*67327#) to track their applications and funding status. This builds upon the success of the WhatsApp and USSD functionality introduced in 2023, offering improved services for tracking and confirming registration information.
Despite these advancements, Minister Nzimande stressed the need for NSFAS to address concerns regarding the efficacy of its call center. Acknowledging existing complaints from students facing difficulties in obtaining assistance, he urged NSFAS to implement improvements before the start of the academic year.
In terms of eligibility and funding, NSFAS continues to support over one million students at public universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Colleges. Financial eligibility requirements for 2024 remain consistent, with a household income cap of R350,000 (R600,000 for disabled students). Successful applicants will have their tuition and registration fees covered, in addition to receiving various allowances to offset associated study costs. Minister Nzimande urged all qualifying students to seize this opportunity, emphasizing the critical role NSFAS plays in shaping their educational future.
