How Many Modules You Can Fail and Still NSFAS they can Fund you Many students want to know How Many Modules You Can Fail and Still NSFAS they can Fund you ,this page Explain exactly number of module if you fail Nsfas will Continue funds your studies.
What NSFAS Looks At When Assessing Your Funding
NSFAS does not only focus on how many modules you fail. Instead, they evaluate:
- Your overall academic progression
- The percentage of modules you pass
- Whether you are advancing to the next level of study
- Your institution’s academic progression rules
This means you can fail some modules and still keep your funding as long as you meet the minimum academic requirements.
However, this question also deals with the N+ rule NSFAS has in place. Before NSFAS was changed from a loan scheme to a bursary, the rule was ‘N+2’ and after the change which came into action in 2018, it was changed to the ‘N+1’ rule.
The N stands for the number of years your qualification goes for and the number (+1) refers to the number of years NSFAS will continue funding you for if you fail.
After 2018, students are granted one year extra of funding should they fail a year in their course.
It is important to further note that, the N+ rule is not based on the number of years that a student has been funded, but on the number of years that the student has been registered for tertiary study at any public university in South Africa.
FAQs About NSFAS and Failed Modules
Can I still get NSFAS if I fail one module?
Yes. Failing one module does not automatically affect your NSFAS funding as long as you meet the overall pass requirements.
Will NSFAS fund me if I fail half of my modules?
It depends on your institution, but generally failing half or more of your modules repeatedly may risk your funding.
Does NSFAS cancel funding if I fail?
NSFAS may suspend or stop funding if you consistently fail and do not show academic progression.
What is the minimum pass requirement for NSFAS?
Most institutions require you to pass at least 50%–60% of your modules to remain funded.
Can I appeal NSFAS if I failed too many modules?
Yes, you can submit an appeal with valid reasons such as illness or personal challenges.
Does NSFAS fund repeated years?
Yes, but only within the N+ rule limit and if you show academic improvement.
What is the N+ rule in NSFAS?
It is the maximum time NSFAS funds your studies: normal course duration plus extra years.
How many times can I fail before NSFAS stops funding me?
There is no exact number, but repeated failure without progression can lead to termination.
Can NSFAS fund me if I repeat a year?
Yes, but only if you are still within the allowed funding period (N+ rule).
Do all universities follow the same NSFAS rules?
No, institutions may have different academic progression rules.
Can I get NSFAS again after losing it?
Yes, through a successful appeal if you meet the requirements.
What happens if I fail all my modules?
You may lose NSFAS funding due to lack of academic progression.
Does NSFAS check my academic results every year?
Yes, your institution reports your academic progress to NSFAS annually.
Can I still get NSFAS if I change courses after failing?
Yes, but you must still meet progression and N+ rule requirements.
Is passing 50% of modules enough for NSFAS?
In many cases yes, but it depends on your institution’s policy.
Can NSFAS stop funding mid-year?
Yes, if serious academic issues or fraud are detected.
Do supplementary exams affect NSFAS funding?
No, supplementary exams are part of normal academic progression.
Can I get NSFAS if I improve after failing?
Yes, improvement in performance can help you retain or regain funding.
What should I do if I am struggling academically?
Seek academic support early and reduce your module load if possible.
Does NSFAS fund students who are on academic probation?
Yes, but continued poor performance may lead to funding loss.
Can I reapply for NSFAS after being rejected due to failure?
Yes, through the appeal process or re-evaluation if conditions improve.





