NSFAS Applications for 2025 Open Amidst Organizational Challenges

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) in South Africa has commenced its application process for the 2025 academic year, inviting all eligible students to apply for bursaries and loans as of September 20, 2024. The application window will remain open until December 15, providing a substantial period for prospective applicants to secure financial support for their education.

Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, highlighted the importance of the scheme during a media briefing, stating, “To apply, aspiring and returning students should visit my.nsfas.org.za.” This call to action aims to reach students entering tertiary education as well as those continuing their studies.

Higher Education and Training Minister, Dr. Nobuhle Nkabane, extended the invitation to current matriculants, as well as learners from grades 9 to 11 who wish to enter the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector. Nkabane assured that NSFAS is adequately prepared to manage the 2025 application process, an effort supported by thorough stakeholder consultations.

The NSFAS bursary program is accessible to South African citizens and permanent residents with a household income not exceeding R350,000 per annum. A higher income threshold of R600,000 per annum is set for applicants with disabilities. Meanwhile, the NSFAS loan is available for households with incomes ranging between R350,001 and R600,000 annually.

The scheme, operating on a substantial annual budget exceeding R54 billion, is currently without a board following the dissolution by former higher education minister, Blade Nzimande, who took action due to irregularities in the payment process. These irregularities included non-payment of student allowances and issues related to ghost students.

Minister Nkabane, who assumed her role recently, pledged to address the systemic issues plaguing NSFAS. In her first budget speech delivered in Parliament, she emphasized her commitment to eradicate corruption and maladministration within the scheme. She also informed Parliament’s appropriations committee about ongoing challenges while assuring that a new board appointment process is underway, expected to conclude by October.

Furthermore, the controversial R2.5 million monthly rental for the NSFAS head office in Cape Town was recently annulled to facilitate the establishment of smaller, regional offices in Gauteng, the Eastern Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal. This move aims to enhance access to funding in areas with the highest demand.

As NSFAS navigates its operational hurdles, eyes are on Minister Nkabane’s effectiveness in resolving these complex issues as she approaches her 100th day in office. The outcomes will significantly impact the future sustainability and credibility of the financial aid scheme.