Do Returning Students Apply for NSFAS 2025-2026

Do Returning Students Apply for NSFAS 2025-2026

Navigating the financial aspects of higher education can be challenging. In South Africa, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) provides essential support to students in need. However, if you’re a returning student, you might be wondering: “Do I need to apply for NSFAS 2025?”

The NSFAS is a bursary scheme funded by the Department of Higher Education and Training for South African students who can’t afford higher education. It covers expenses like tuition, accommodation, meals, and study materials, providing students with an opportunity to pursue their studies at any of South Africa’s public universities or TVET colleges. This article will clarify the process for returning students applying for NSFAS.

SEE ALSO: NSFAS Student Portal

NSFAS Funding for Returning Students 2025-2026

Returning students who have previously received NSFAS funding may reapply for NSFAS funding for the upcoming academic year.

Once you’ve been approved for NSFAS funding, it’s not necessary to reapply each year. The funding is automatically renewed annually, as long as you meet the academic requirements and continue to demonstrate financial need. Therefore, if you were a beneficiary of NSFAS in 2024 and plan to continue your studies in 2025, you won’t need to reapply for the NSFAS 2025 funding.

SEE ALSO: NSFAS Closing Date for 2025-2026

NSFAS Eligibility Requirements For Returning Students 2025-2026

You qualify for an NSFAS bursary if you are a South African citizen who plans to study in 2025 or you are already studying at a public university or TVET college and you meet the following requirements:

South African citizens or permanent residents
SASSA grant recipients
Applicants whose combined gross household income is not more than R350 000 per year
Persons with disabilities whose combined gross household income is not more than R600 000 per year.
Must have an email account and cell phone number.

How to Apply for NSFAS As A Returning Student 2025-2026

The NSFAS Application process for 2025 is very easy, simple and accurate. To Apply for NSFAS Online 2025, kindly follow the steps outlined below:

Create a profile:

Create a myNSFAS account via this link: https://my.nsfas.org.za/ or download the NSFAS App on Google Play or App Store. Your ID number will be your username.

Apply now:

Click on the “Apply’ tab to update your personal information and upload your application supporting documents, as indicated.

Complete:

Submit your application

READ: NSFAS Website

Required Documents for NSFAS Application 2025-2026

To apply for NSFAS for the 2025-2026 academic year, the following documents are required;

Students with disabilities must provide:

A completed and signed Disability Annexure A Form

Students recognised as vulnerable children must provide:

An applicant who is recognised as a vulnerable child by the Department of Social Development must provide and Vulnerable Child Declaration form completed by a social worker

Other documents that may be required, if applicable:

Retrenchment letter
Death certificate/s
Divorce Decree
Proof of legal guardianship
Marriage certificate
other documents may be required for appeal purposes,….eg retrenchment letter.

READ: How Do I Know If I Qualify For NSFAS 2025/2026

How To Maintaining Your NSFAS Funding 2025-2026

While you don’t have to reapply each year, it’s crucial to maintain your eligibility for NSFAS funding. Here are some key things to keep in mind:

Academic Progress: NSFAS requires students to pass at least 50% of their modules each year. Failure to meet this requirement could result in the loss of your NSFAS funding.
Update Your Information: If there are significant changes in your academic or personal circumstances, you should update this information on the myNSFAS portal.
Check Your Status: Regularly log into your myNSFAS account to check your status and make sure everything is in order.

Exceptions to the Rule For NSFAS 2025-2026

There are certain situations where a returning student might need to reapply for NSFAS. These include:

Gap Year: If you took a gap year or paused your studies, you’ll need to reapply when you return to your studies.
Change of Institution: If you’re changing institutions, you should reapply, as NSFAS needs to re-evaluate your funding based on the fees of your new institution.

READ: How Old Must You Be To Apply For NSFAS 2025

NSFAS Contact

For all other queries regarding students:

Tel No.: 08000 67327
Email: info@nsfas.org.za
Physical Address
The Halyard, 4 Christiaan Barnard St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8001

While NSFAS has made the process for returning students straightforward and hassle-free, it’s crucial to keep abreast of the requirements and ensure you remain eligible for funding. Remember, the future is in your hands, and NSFAS is there to give you the support you need to succeed in your academic journey.

Visit https://www.nsfas.org.za/content for more information

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