NSFAS New Bursary Scheme 2025 – Apply for Full Funding and Monthly Allowances

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has launched its enhanced 2025 bursary scheme, providing full non‑repayable funding to eligible students at public universities and TVET colleges.

This includes full coverage of tuition, accommodation, living, transport, learning materials, and support allowances, based on household income verified through third-party data.

Funded students also receive 10 monthly allowance payments during the academic year—from February to November—with initial lump payments in March to kick-start the support cycle.

Table of Contents

Who Qualifies for NSFAS Bursary Funding in 2025?

Eligibility is based on both financial and academic criteria

Eligibility Area	Requirement (2025)
Household Income	≤ R350,000/year (£19 €/year for disability: ≤ R600K)
Citizenship	South African citizen or permanent resident
Institution	Enrolled at a public university or TVET college
Academic Progress	Meet progression rules (60 % pass rate; N+1/N+2 for disabled)
Document Submission	Valid ID, consent form, income proof, registration confirmation

Academically, continuing students must maintain required pass rates and abide by N+ rule limits—with exceptions made for students with disabilities.

Allowance Schedule & Disbursement Dates for 2025

NSFAS disburses 10 monthly allowances, aligned with the academic calendar. Initial upfront payments are issued in early March, with subsequent payments each month from March to November.

Payment Cycle	Allowance Month(s)	Payment Timeline
Payment Run 1	March (covering Feb)	Week of 3–7 March, institutions disburse locally
Monthly Cycles 2–10	April to November	Released on the 29th of each month (April–Nov)

Specific institutional cycles may vary: for example, UKZN schedules allow payments on Feb 6, Mar 3, Apr 1, May 5, Jun 2, Jul 7, Aug 4, Sep 1, Oct 6, Nov 3.

TVET College students receive bank account deposits directly from NSFAS, while universities may still pay amounts institutionally. Students were advised to ensure their bank details are submitted and verified to avoid delays.

How to Apply for NSFAS Bursary Funding in 2025

Step 1: Check Eligibility

Use the NSFAS eligibility tool to confirm income and academic criteria.

Step 2: Register on MyNSFAS Portal

Create an account and complete the digital application, including household and personal details.

Step 3: Submit Required Documents

Upload certified ID, household income verification, disability documentation (if applicable), proof of registration, and a signed NSFAS consent form.

Important Conditions & Scholar Commitments

Students must achieve minimum pass rates: 60 % at universities, 70 % at TVET colleges.
The bursary covers one first qualification only.
The N+ rule applies strictly, except for students with approved N+2 progression.
Failure in academic performance or household income updates may result in funding suspension or termination.

The NSFAS 2025 Bursary Scheme offers inclusive, comprehensive support for eligible South African students—including tuition, allowances, and more.

With 10 scheduled allowance payments between March and November, household income verification via third-party data, and clear academic criteria, students from low-income backgrounds are empowered to complete their studies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. When do NSFAS allowances begin payout in 2025?

NSFAS made an upfront payment in early March, covering allowances for February and March, with monthly payments scheduled on the 29th of each month from April through November.

2. How are university and TVET College allowance payments handled?

TVET College students receive direct bank deposits from NSFAS. University funds go to institutions first, which then disburse to students, pending ongoing court review.

3. What if I lose funding mid-year due to poor academic progress?

You may lose funding if you do not meet the required pass rate or exceed the NSFAS N+ rule. Disabled students benefit from N+2 additional progression time.