NSFAS Application, 10 Frequently Asked Questions
1: I no longer remember or use the email and cell number I registered with; how can I retrieve my OTP?
If you find yourself in a situation where you can no longer recall the email address and cell phone number you registered with, there are still steps you can take to retrieve your One Time Pin (OTP). Begin by visiting the official website of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) at www.nsfas.org.za. Once on the homepage, locate and click on the myNSFAS account tab to access your personal account details.
Next, you will need to provide your username and password to login to your NSFAS account. Once logged in, navigate to the My personal details tab where you will be prompted to input your current cell phone number and email address. Be sure to double-check that the information you provide is accurate and up-to-date.
After entering your new contact information, click on the Update your details button. A One Time Pin (OTP) will then be generated and sent to the new cell phone number and email address you have provided. Stay alert for any notifications on your new devices, as the OTP is crucial for the next steps in the process.
Once you receive the OTP, enter it into the designated field on the screen and click submit. Your details will then be immediately updated in the NSFAS system, allowing you to proceed with any necessary transactions or inquiries. Remember to keep your contact information current to ensure seamless communication with NSFAS in the future.
- Go to www.nsfas.org.za and click on myNSFAS account
- Enter your username and password
- Click on the My personal details tab
- Enter your current cell phone number and email address
- Click Update your details
- A One Time Pin (OTP) will be sent to the new cell phone number and email address that you have provided
- Enter the OTP and click submit
- Your details will immediately be updated
2: When will application results be communicated?
NSFAS will inform you of the outcome of your application once the Institution confirms that you have received an academic offer. You will receive this information through SMS, email, and your myNSFAS account before the academic year starts.
3: Do I need to apply for 2024 funding or each semester and trimester if I am currently approved?
If you are currently receiving financial aid from NSFAS, there is no need for you to submit a new application.
4: What supporting documents are required when I apply?
Applicants must provide these documents: A recent, certified ID copy, a completed and signed consent form, certified ID copies of parents/guardians/spouse, proof of their income (such as a payslip or appointment letter), proof of income for those self-sufficient, completed and signed Annexure A for those with disabilities, and a completed and signed Declaration Form for orphans. Additional required documents include retrenchment letter/UIF documentation, death certificates, and divorce decrees when applicable.
5: My parents/ guardian is an informal trader selling fruit, what proof of income should I upload?
Your parent or guardian must provide a written statement to confirm the information. External organizations will check and confirm the income of your parent or guardian.
6: I already have a bursary from another organisation that covers part of my studies, can I apply for NSFAS to cover the balance of funds needed?
Students with a complete NSFAS scholarship cannot also receive a full study bursary from another place simultaneously. However, if a student gets a partial bursary from another source, NSFAS can still offer support, but the amount will be adjusted to ensure the student’s full study costs are covered. NSFAS will not cover expenses already paid for by another entity. Any surplus funds must be returned to NSFAS by the school. Students cannot get more funding than what is allowed by the DHET National Rules and regulations.
7: I am not receiving the One Time Pin (OTP), how do I access it?
You have the choice to request a new One Time Pin (OTP) to be sent to you by clicking the resend option.
8: I am still studying- am I required to start paying my NSFAS loan?
Repayment of your study loan starts only after you find a job. Those who took out study loans before 2017 get a one-year break from interest payments after they leave school.
9: Does the NSFAS funding cover short courses at universities?
No. NSFAS funding supports undergraduate programs at universities, including both degree and diploma programs that have been approved for funding.
10: Can I apply for NSFAS if I was funded previously?
Yes, you may apply for funding. You will be required to apply during the application period. Please note that if you have been registered prior to 2018 your combined household income must not exceed R122 000 per annum. If you were registered in or after 2018 for the first time your combined household income must not exceed R350 00 per annum.
NSFAS Application
Lethe Alberch