Does NSFAS fund Foundation Phase Teaching?

Does NSFAS fund Foundation Phase Teaching?

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has long been a beacon of hope for many South African students in need of financial assistance for higher education. But does this government-funded program extend its support to aspiring foundation phase teachers?

In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at the NSFAS funding for foundation phase teaching, including eligibility requirements, application processes, and more.

SEE ALSO: Can NSFAS Fund you for a Second Degree?

NSFAS Funding for Foundation Phase Teaching

Great news! NSFAS does fund foundation phase teaching programs. This financial aid covers both undergraduate and postgraduate studies in the field. By offering financial support for aspiring teachers, NSFAS aims to increase the number of skilled foundation phase teachers in South Africa, addressing the current skills shortage and ultimately enhancing the quality of education in the country.

Foundation phase teaching is the first and most crucial stage of a child’s formal education, catering to children from Grade R (reception) to Grade 3. This phase aims to provide students with a strong foundation in literacy, numeracy, and life skills, setting the stage for their future academic success. Foundation phase teachers play a critical role in shaping young minds and nurturing their curiosity and creativity.

Foundation Phase Teaching Courses Covered By NSFAS

NSFAS funding plays a vital role in enhancing the quality of education in South Africa. By supporting students who wish to pursue foundation phase teaching, NSFAS helps to address the critical skills shortage in the country. Moreover, this financial aid enables many students from low-income families to access quality education and contribute to the nation’s development. Two types of qualifications are funded through the bursary. They are namely;

1. A 4-year Bachelor of Education degree (B Ed), Specialising in Foundation Phase (FP) (Grade R – 3), Intermediate Phase (IP) (Grade 4 – 6), Senior Phase (SP) (Grade 7 – 9) and Further Education and Training (FET) Phase (Grade 10-12).
2. One-year Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) in SP/FET Phase teaching for graduates.

READ: NSFAS Application Form 2025-2026 PDF

Eligibility Criteria for NSFAS Funding 2025

For the 2025-2026 academic year, You are eligible 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.

You may Read On: NSFAS Application 2025-2026 Opening Date

How to Apply for NSFAS Funding 2025

If you meet the eligibility criteria and wish to apply for NSFAS funding, follow these steps:

• 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

Required Documents To Apply For NSFAS 2025

To complete your NSFAS application, make sure to gather the following documents:

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: NSFAS Status 2025-2026

NSFAS Contact Information

• Website: www.nsfas.org.za
  Email: info@nsfas.org.za
• South African students: 0860 067 327
• International students: +27 21 763 3232
• Physical Address: 10 Brodie Road, Wynberg, Cape Town, South Africa, 7700
• Postal Address: Private Bag X1, Plumstead, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa, 7801

In summary, NSFAS does fund foundation phase teaching programs for eligible South African students. If you’re an aspiring foundation phase teacher, be sure to explore this opportunity and apply for NSFAS funding. With the support of NSFAS, you can make a difference in the lives of countless young learners and contribute to the advancement of education in South Africa.

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