Can Foreign Students Apply For NSFAS? The NSFAS is for Only south African students or even International students who pursue their Studies in South African Universities and Collegies? This is the most asked Question that’s why we prepared this article to make thing Clear.
What Is NSFAS?
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government-funded initiative that helps financially disadvantaged South African students access higher education.
What NSFAS Covers:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Food and living allowances
- Learning materials
- Transport (where applicable)
One of the primary eligibility criteria for NSFAS is that applicants must be South African citizens or hold permanent residency status in South Africa. This requirement means that foreign students, who do not have South African citizenship or permanent residency, are not eligible to apply for NSFAS funding. To determine eligibility, foreign students should perform an NSFAS status check to see if they meet the criteria for financial assistance.
Who Qualifies for NSFAS?
To qualify for NSFAS funding, you must:
- You must be a South African citizen or permanent resident in South Africa
- You must have a valid South African ID
- You must have a combined gross household income does NOT more than R350 000 per annum OR R600 000 per annum if living with a disability
- You must have been accepted to study at a public university or TVET college in South Africa, for the 2026 academic yea OR you must be currently registered at a public university or TVET college in South Africa, but are not yet funded by NSFAS
- SASSA grant recipients automatically qualify
A well-known bursary for foreigners in South Africa is the Mukuru Bursary but it only awards bursaries to two foreign national Grade 12 learners per year to study at a university or a technical university in South Africa. The learners must be interested in studying one of the following subjects:
Business Analysis
Information Technology Engineers
Software Architecture
Software Development
Software Development Management
Software Quality Assurance
These are the minimum entry requirements for the Mukuru Bursary:
You must have completed Matric
You must have achieved a minimum overall average of 70% and a Bachelor’s Pass in Matric
You must be studying full time towards an undergraduate qualification, within one of the fields of study listed above
You must be in your 1st, 2nd or 3rd year of study
You must have achieved a minimum overall average of 65% at tertiary level
You must be registered to study at a recognised and accredited tertiary institution in South Africa (University or University of Technology)
You must be in financial need
You must NOT be an employee of Mukuru
You must read and agree to the Mukuru Education Fund Bursary T&C’s
Get More Opportunities
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CONTACT NSFAS
For any queries related to this bursary programme, please contact NSFAS directly:
Tel: 0860 067 327
Email: [email protected]
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can foreign students apply for NSFAS?
No, NSFAS is mainly for South African citizens.
Do permanent residents qualify for NSFAS?
Yes, in some cases they may qualify.
Can refugees apply for NSFAS?
Yes, recognized refugees may be considered.
Does NSFAS fund international students?
Generally, no.
What documents are needed for exceptions?
Proof of residency or refugee status.
Can I apply without South African ID?
Usually not, unless under special categories.
What are alternatives to NSFAS?
Scholarships, bursaries, and international funding programs.
Can I study in South Africa without NSFAS?
Yes, through other funding sources.
Is NSFAS available at private universities?
No, it mainly supports public institutions.
How do I find scholarships in South Africa?
Check university websites and scholarship portals.
Do all universities offer scholarships?
Most offer some form of financial aid.
Is NSFAS a loan?
It is mostly a bursary for qualifying students.
Can I reapply if rejected?
Yes, if your status changes.
Are there fully funded scholarships?
Yes, but they are competitive.
Can I work while studying?
Depends on your visa conditions.
What is the best option for foreign students?
Apply for international scholarships and university funding.
Do I need a study permit?
Yes, for studying in South Africa.
Can I get accommodation support?
Yes, through some scholarships.
Is applying to multiple scholarships allowed?
Yes, and it is recommended.
Where can I get help?
University financial aid offices or education consultants.
