Can I Receive the SASSA SRD Grant and NSFAS at the Same Time? Some one asked on Comment if he can Receive Both SASSA SRD Grant and NSFAS at the Same Time,This article will let you know if you can receive both at once?.
The answer is yes,It is clear that one can apply for NSFAS funding and will be funded by NSFAS even if he or she receives the R350 grant.
Yet, it is within these parameters that it is stipulated that a person may not apply for the R350 grant if she or he is currently benefitting from NSFAS provisions. This means that granted that you are a beneficiary of NSFAS and you apply for the grant, you will most probably be disqualified for the grant.
In the event that you are awarded the grant and at some point you make an application for NSFAS, SASSA will likely take a position that you have ceased to qualify for the grant (in the event that NSFAS accepts you) and your payments will stop. SASSA also conducts a monthly verification exercise to check the eligibility of the current beneficiaries.
Impact of the R350 Grant on NSFAS Eligibility
The fact that one is in receipt of the R350 Social Relief of Distress grant does not preclude one from receiving any NSFAS funding. This is a significant aspect of comprehension for any potential learners who might be expecting several avenues of financial assistance.
In trying to understand why so many lay people are puzzled over how NSFAS work. The answer is simple. It is because these people use glamourous advertisement of limitless funding and endless financial support including in the application of NSFAS. There are slogans related to Advance your future in fashion dress as well as catch phrases Go on, do it, you owe us this the most with us and many others.
In contrast, NSFAS will analyze every application without bias to the applicant and their particular family circumstances. The emphasis here is on the financial need of the person applying and their family. This has to do with looking at:
Total Household Income: In assessing the level of need for an applicant, NSFAS considers the overall income of the applicant’s immediate family.
Other Government Assistance: While the R350 grant is considered, it does not preclude eligibility. Other forms of government help like childcare grant, disability grant and such are also included in the financial profile.
Living Expenses: The means test also includes expenses that are incurred in providing for basic necessities such as food, transport and utilities.
Number of Dependents: The total number of persons who rely on the household income is the other determining factor of the applicant’s eligibility for the program.
Eligibility Criteria for NSFAS
The determination of NSFAS funding sources comes with consideration of the applicant’s financial standing and that of his/her family. Below are the most important eligibility criteria:
- Means Test: NSFAS undertakes a means test for the evaluation of financial capability based on the structure of the household income, number of dependants and general living costs.
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Academic Requirements: Prospective students are obliged to meet the academic criteria established by the institution of their choice.
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Citizenship: Only citizens of South African and permanent residents are eligible to apply.
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Enrollment at Accredited Institutions: Learners have to enroll in accredited public universities or TVET colleges.
