How NSFAS Funding Works For Students With Disabilities The National Student Financial Aid Scheme(NSFAS) They not left back Students with Disabilities on the Funding cheme.
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) helps to cover the cost of tuition fees and living expenses for eligible students pursuing higher education at public universities and TVET colleges.
How NSFAS Supports Students With Disabilities
NSFAS provides funding to students living with disabilities. It’s important to note that there are several differences in the way that NSFAS funds students living with disabilities.
Unlike able-bodied students who may not have a household income exceeding R350,000 to qualify for a NSFAS bursary, students with disabilities may have a household income of up to R600,000 per annum.
Students living with disabilities are required to download and fill out a NSFAS Disability Annexure A form when applying for funding.
If they require human assistance, they must submit a disability human support claim
NSFAS Allowances For Students With Disabilities
Students with disabilities qualify for living allowances including meals at R20,000 per academic year. They qualify for a learning materials allowance of R6,000 per academic year for university students only.
Assistive Devices
Assistive Devices are external devices that are designed, made, or adapted to assist a person to perform a particular task. Many people with disabilities depend on assistive devices to enable them to carry out daily activities and participate actively and productively in community life.
NSFAS provides an assistive devices allowance limited to R50,000 as a once-off allowance. These students also qualify for repairs and maintenance of assistive devices to the value of R2,000 per academic year.
Students with disabilities do not automatically qualify for the allowance for assistive devices, or the repairs and maintenance thereof. The allowances are only granted if the student application for these allowances is approved, and all conditions and criteria are met as set out in this policy standard.
NSFAS says if students are successful in their application for financial aid and you have received notice of the final approval amount from NSFAS, they may arrange to purchase their assistive device through the student disability unit at your university or TVET college.
The university or TVET college can purchase the assistive device on your behalf.
In an effort to create an enabling and conducive environment for students with disabilities, TVET colleges will be developing and implementing disability support policies and establishing Disability Support Units (DSUs).
Its important to note that students with disabilities must provide a detailed medical report from a medical professional registered with the Health
Professions Council of South Africa is required to support their NSFAS application.
NSFAS says that any other chronic diseases or medical conditions can only be considered based on a full medical evaluation, and a detailed report outlining how the condition is manifested in the students’ difficulties in accessing teaching and learning, with or without support.
Types of Disabilities Covered
NSFAS recognizes a wide range of disabilities, including:
- Physical disabilities
- Visual impairments
- Hearing impairments
- Intellectual disabilities
- Chronic illnesses (in some cases)
- Mental health conditions
Each case is assessed individually to determine the level of support required.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who qualifies for NSFAS disability funding?
Students with verified disabilities and financial need qualify.
Do students with disabilities get more funding than others?
Yes, they receive additional support for disability-related needs.
Is a medical report required?
Yes, it is mandatory for verification.
What is the Disability Annexure Form?
A form used to assess and detail disability support needs.
Can I apply if I have a mental health condition?
Yes, depending on severity and documentation.
Does NSFAS pay for assistive devices?
Yes, based on approved needs.
How long does approval take?
It varies but may take several weeks.
Can I appeal if my funding is denied?
Yes, you can submit an appeal with additional documents.
Do all institutions have disability units?
Most public universities and colleges do.
Is transport covered for disabled students?
Yes, if necessary and approved.
Can I get a caregiver funded?
Yes, in certain cases.
Do I need to reapply every year?
Usually yes, unless automatically renewed.
What happens if my condition changes?
You must update NSFAS with new medical reports.
Can I study part-time with NSFAS?
Generally no, NSFAS supports full-time students.
Are private institutions covered?
No, only public institutions are funded.
Is accommodation adjusted for disabilities?
Yes, accessible housing may be provided.
What if my assistive device breaks?
You can request replacement or repair funding.
Can international students apply?
No, only South African citizens qualify.
How do I check my application status?
Through the NSFAS online portal.
Is disability funding guaranteed?
No, it depends on verification and available funds.
