NSFAS Applications Guide – Everything You Need

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NSFAS Applications Guide – Everything You Need

BY : CHANON LECODEY MERRICKS ONLINE EDITOR 

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As the cost of higher education continues to rise in South Africa, financial support remains a critical lifeline for millions of students. The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has once again opened opportunities for qualifying students to pursue their academic dreams . Whether you are a first-time applicant or a returning student, understanding how NSFAS works—and how to apply successfully—can make all the difference.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about NSFAS applications, including eligibility requirements, application steps, deadlines, common mistakes, and expert tips to increase your chances of approval.

What is NSFAS?

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a South African government initiative that provides financial assistance to students from low- and middle-income households. It covers tuition fees, accommodation, transport, learning materials, and living allowances for students studying at public universities and TVET colleges.

NSFAS is not just a loan—it is primarily a bursary for qualifying students, meaning that in most cases, you do not have to pay it back, provided you meet academic requirements.

Who Qualifies for NSFAS ?

Before applying, it is important to ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria. For the  academic year, applicants must meet the following requirements:

- Be a South African citizen

- Come from a household with a combined annual income of:

  - R350,000 or less for general applicants

  - R600,000 or less for students with disabilities

- Be accepted or planning to study at a public university or TVET college

- Not already have a qualification funded by NSFAS

- Meet the academic requirements of your chosen institution

Students receiving SASSA grants automatically qualify for NSFAS funding, provided they meet admission requirements.

What Does NSFAS Cover?

If your application is approved, NSFAS funding typically includes:

- Full tuition fees

- Accommodation (either on-campus or private accommodation within approved limits)

- Transport allowance (for students living within a certain distance from campus)

- Living allowance for daily expenses

- Learning material allowance (books and study equipment)

This comprehensive support ensures that students can focus on their studies without financial stress.

NSFAS Application Opening and Closing Dates

NSFAS applications usually open towards the end of the year preceding the academic year. Applications are expected to:

- Open: September 

- Close: January 

It is strongly advised to apply as early as possible to avoid last-minute issues or system delays.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for NSFAS 

Applying for NSFAS is done entirely online.

Follow these steps carefully:

Step 1: Create a myNSFAS Account

Visit the official NSFAS website and register for a myNSFAS account. You will need:

- A valid email address

- Your ID number

- A cellphone number

Make sure all your details are accurate, as this information will be used throughout your application process.

Step 2: Complete Your Profile

Once your account is created, log in and fill in your personal details, including:

- Full name and surname

- Contact details

- Physical address

- Education history

Step 3: Upload Required Documents

You will need to upload certified copies of the following documents:

- Your South African ID or birth certificate

- Parent or guardian ID copies

- Proof of income (payslips, affidavits, or SASSA letter)

- Academic results (if applicable)

Ensure all documents are clear, valid, and not older than three months where applicable.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

After completing all sections and uploading documents, review your application carefully. Once satisfied, submit your application.

You will receive a reference number—keep this safe, as you will use it to track your application status.

How to Track Your NSFAS Application

After submission, you can track your application through your myNSFAS account. Status updates may include:

- Application submitted

- Documents pending

- Verification in progress

- Approved or rejected

Be patient, as processing may take several weeks due to high application volumes.

Common Reasons for NSFAS Rejection

Many students are rejected due to avoidable mistakes. Here are the most common reasons:

- Missing or incorrect documents

- Household income exceeding the threshold

- Incomplete application

- Academic ineligibility

- Duplicate applications

To avoid rejection, double-check all your information before submitting.

What to Do If Your Application Is Rejected

If your NSFAS application is declined, do not panic. You have the option to appeal.

NSFAS Appeal Process:

- Log into your myNSFAS account

- Select the appeal option

- Provide a valid reason for your appeal

- Upload supporting documents

Appeals must be submitted within 30 days of receiving your rejection notice.

NSFAS Allowances (Estimated)

While official figures may vary, students can expect allowances similar to previous years:

- Living allowance: Around R15,000 per year

- Transport allowance: Up to R7,500 per year

- Accommodation: Based on actual costs within limits

- Learning materials: Around R5,200 per year

These allowances are designed to cover essential student needs.

Important Tips for a Successful NSFAS Application

To improve your chances of approval, follow these expert tips:

Apply Early

Avoid last-minute applications. Early submission reduces stress and gives you time to fix any issues.

Use Accurate Information

Ensure all personal and financial details are correct. False information can lead to disqualification.

Upload Clear Documents

Blurry or unreadable documents are a common cause of delays and rejections.

Keep Copies of Everything

Save copies of your application and all uploaded documents for reference.

Check Your Application Status Regularly

Stay updated and respond quickly if additional information is required.

NSFAS for Returning Students

If you are already funded by NSFAS, you do not need to reapply every year. However, you must:

- Pass your academic modules

- Meet institutional progression requirements

Failure to meet academic standards may result in loss of funding.

NSFAS and Private Colleges

It is important to note that NSFAS does not fund private institutions. Only students enrolled in public universities and TVET colleges qualify.

If you are considering a private college, you will need to explore alternative funding options such as scholarships or private bursaries.

The Impact of NSFAS on South African Youth

NSFAS has transformed the lives of millions of young South Africans by making higher education accessible to those who would otherwise not afford it. It plays a crucial role in reducing inequality and empowering the next generation of professionals, entrepreneurs, and leaders.

For many students, NSFAS is not just financial aid—it is an opportunity to change their future and uplift their families.

Final Thoughts

Applying for NSFAS could be one of the most important steps in your educational journey. With proper preparation, accurate documentation, and timely submission, you can significantly increase your chances of success.

Do not wait until the last minute. Start preparing your documents now, stay informed, and take full advantage of this life-changing opportunity.

Education is one of the most powerful tools for success—and NSFAS is here to help you achieve it.

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President Cyril Ramaphosa appoints Judges of the Constitutional Court

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President Cyril Ramaphosa appoints Judges of the Constitutional Court

BY : CHANON LECODEY MERRICKS ONLINE EDITOR KASiBC_AFRiCA 

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President Cyril Ramaphosa has in terms of section 174(4) of the Constitution appointed Justice Nambitha Christabel Dambuza-Mayosi and Justice Katharine Mary Savage as Judges of the Constitutional Court with effect from 1 May 2026.

As directed by the Constitution, President Ramaphosa has made these appointments after consultation with Chief Justice Mandisa Maya and leaders of political parties represented in the National Assembly.

Justice Dambuza-Mayosi currently serves as a Judge of the Supreme Court of Appeal – a position she has held since June 2015 and which included an extended period of acting as President of the Supreme Court of Appeal.

Justice Dambuza-Mayosi’s career spans more than three decades in legal practice, academia and the judiciary.

Justice Savage became a Judge of the Western Cape High Court in 2015 and has served as a Judge of the Labour Appeal Court since 2024.

President Ramaphosa wishes the new judges of South Africa’s apex court well in their new roles.

The President said: “Judge Dambuza-Mayosi and Judge Savage have for decades served the cause and practice of justice with great diligence, foresight and, most importantly, clear commitment to our Constitution.

“They join the Constitutional Court in the year in which we mark 30 years since the adoption of our democratic Constitution. This anniversary is a significant moment for our nation and serves as an inspiration for our Constitutional Court to sustain the entrenchment of our national values and the supreme law that underpins them.”

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THE COMMISSIONING OF THE BOLOBEDU SOLAR PLANT IN LIMPOPO

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THE COMMISSIONING OF THE BOLOBEDU SOLAR PLANT IN LIMPOPO

BY : CHANON LECODEY MERRICKS ONLINE EDITOR KASiBC_AFRiCA 

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The Government welcomes the successful commissioning of the Bolobedu Solar Plant, a 148-megawatt (MW) photovoltaic facility in Limpopo Province, completed in April 2026 and commissioned by Rio Tinto. 

This milestone represents a significant contribution to South Africa’s ongoing efforts to diversify its energy mix, strengthen energy security, and accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy. The plant, which spans approximately 347 hectares, is expected to generate around 300 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of clean energy annually, supplying power through the national grid.

The Bolobedu Solar Plant stands as a strong example of how strategic public-private collaboration can unlock investment, drive infrastructure development, and support inclusive economic growth. During its construction phase, the project created employment opportunities for approximately 800 local residents, with a clear emphasis on skills development, empowerment of women-led enterprises, and meaningful community upliftment.

Government commends all stakeholders involved in the development and implementation of this project for prioritising local participation and ensuring that communities benefit directly from infrastructure investments. Initiatives such as these play a vital role in addressing unemployment, promoting sustainable livelihoods, and building resilient local economies.

As South Africa continues to confront energy challenges, projects like the Bolobedu Solar Plant demonstrate the critical role of renewable energy in stabilising electricity supply while advancing the country’s climate commitments.

Government remains committed to creating an enabling environment for further investment in renewable energy and infrastructure development that delivers both economic and social value.

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THE IPID REPORT INTO THE PHALA PHALA SCANDAL AND THE SYSTEMATIC COVER-UP OF PRESIDENT CYRIL RAMAPHOSA

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THE IPID REPORT INTO THE PHALA PHALA SCANDAL AND THE SYSTEMATIC COVER-UP OF PRESIDENT CYRIL RAMAPHOSA

BY : CHANON LECODEY MERRICKS ONLINE EDITOR KASiBC_AFRiCA 

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The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) notes the report released by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) on the Phala Phala farm scandal where millions of stuffed Rands were stolen from the President’s home, and we state without hesitation that its findings confirm a coordinated abuse of state power to conceal criminal conduct linked to Cyril Ramaphosa.

The IPID report highlights a disturbing pattern of illegality, misconduct, and institutional decay within the Presidential Protection Unit (PPU) and sections of the South African Police Service. It confirms that senior SAPS officials, including Major General Wally Rhoode and Constable Hlulani Rekhoto, were informed of the theft of foreign currency of $580 000 from the President’s private farm but deliberately failed to register a criminal case or report the matter in accordance with the law.

Instead of complying with the legal prescripts of the SAPS Act and the Prevention and Combating of Corrupt Activities Act, these officials embarked on an unlawful investigation. The report finds that this included the concealment of the crime, the use of state resources to pursue suspects, and the abuse of police authority to protect the private financial interests of the President.

The report further details how SAPS members conducted unlawful apprehensions of suspects and witnesses, interrogated suspects outside of legal procedures, and engaged in acts amounting to kidnapping. It reveals that suspects were tracked, detained, and questioned without any registered case docket, in complete violation of constitutional and policing protocols.

More concerning is the finding that there was unlawful handling of the stolen money, including allegations of bribery aimed at silencing suspects and concealing the events that took place on 9 February 2020. The report also highlights unlawful cross-border activities, including engagements with suspects and law enforcement in Namibia, raising serious questions about the extent of the cover-up and the misuse of state machinery beyond South Africa’s borders.

The IPID investigation exposes how official state resources were repurposed for a private matter. Police personnel were deployed under false pretences, travel arrangements were misrepresented, and public funds were used to conduct what was effectively a private recovery operation for the President’s undeclared foreign currency. This constitutes fruitless and wasteful expenditure and a gross violation of public trust.

Both Major General Rhoode and Constable Rekhoto were, according to the report, recommended for disciplinary action in the face of these investigations, however acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia last year stated that Rhoode was subjected to an internal disciplinary process regarding this matter and was found not guilty. This is a glaring contradiction coming from Ramaphosa’s own Minister.

It is now clear, when this report is read together with the findings of the Section 89 Panel Report, that President Cyril Ramaphosa has a clear case to answer for. The convergence of these findings demonstrates a consistent pattern of concealment, abuse of power, and evasion of accountability at the highest level of the state.

The EFF is additionally concerned by the delays surrounding the release of the IPID report, as well as the continued delay in the EFF Constitutional Court case on Section 89 report, which seeks to reinstate the Section 89 process in Parliament. These delays point to a deliberate attempt to shield President Ramaphosa from accountability and to suppress processes that would expose the full extent of wrongdoing.

This pattern of institutional protection is not new. It mirrors the conduct of key state institutions such as the South African Revenue Service, the South African Reserve Bank, and the Office of the Public Protector South Africa, all of which have, in relation to Phala Phala, acted in a manner that raises serious concerns about their independence and willingness to hold the President accountable.

Moreover, the conduct exposed in this report bears a striking resemblance to the revelations emerging from the Madlanga Commission and the Ad Hoc Committee on the criminal infiltration of Police and Intelligence services. These processes have pointed to a dangerous trend of political interference, parallel power structures, and the erosion of lawful governance within South Africa’s security apparatus.

This combination of evidence is deeply worrying. It reveals a state that is increasingly manipulated to serve the interests of a political elite, rather than the people of South Africa. It confirms that the President is not only politically compromised but is at the centre of a network of actions that undermine the rule of law.

We therefore demand the immediate institution of criminal proceedings against all SAPS members implicated in the unlawful activities outlined in the report, and a full, transparent criminal investigation into the role of President Cyril Ramaphosa in the concealment of the crime and the subsequent abuse of state resources.

The findings of IPID, read together with other processes, make it increasingly clear that this is a matter that demands criminal accountability. As we have consistently stated President Cyril Ramaphosa has a case to answer, and that the trajectory of these revelations points to a leader that has no place in public office, but must face the full might of the law.

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MAYORAL CANDIDATE SELECTION PROCESS AND OPEN PUBLIC SUBMISSIONS

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MAYORAL CANDIDATE SELECTION PROCESS AND OPEN PUBLIC SUBMISSIONS

BY : CHANON LECODEY MERRICKS ONLINE EDITOR 

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The African National Congress (ANC) convenes a Special National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting on Friday, 10 April 2026, at a decisive moment in the life of our movement and the country.

This Special NEC will deliberate on strategic organisational and political matters, including the evolving relationship with the South African Communist Party in the context of its decision to contest elections independently.

This engagement reflects the maturity, resilience and strategic depth of the ANC as the leader of the broad liberation movement. The ANC remains committed to principled engagement within the Alliance, guided by unity, revolutionary discipline and the historic mission of advancing the National Democratic Revolution in the interests of the people. The outcomes of the Special NEC will be communicated in due course.

The African National Congress is entering a decisive phase of preparation for the 2026 Local Government Elections, a phase that will determine not only electoral outcomes, but the credibility of governance at the level closest to our people.

The ANC, at its special NEC followed by the national Councillor Roll-call, in September 2025 undertook a frank, honest and uncompromising assessment of the state of local government. This assessment confirmed persistent and systemic challenges, including under-expenditure of infrastructure budgets, declining revenue collection, governance instability, institutional weaknesses, and instances of corruption that have undermined service delivery and eroded public trust. These realities demanded decisive political intervention, not incremental adjustment, and hence the adoption of the its Local Government Action Plan (LGAP) to fix local government.

Based on the local government action plan, the ANC has been implementing a structured, phased and time-bound programme of action to resolve service delivery issues, and address infrastructure, governance and financial challenges. All our public representatives, executives in local councils, with the support of provincial and national departments are obliged to respond to issues raised by communities, and we have established a national service delivery war-room to ensure that we remain responsive to work with the people to resolve local problems.

The ANC further reiterates that we previously made an announcement on conferences to be concluded at the end of March 2026 as directed by the NEC. However, in the interest of organisational stability, unity

and continuity, the movement has resolved to allow only those conferences that were duly approved and already underway to finalise their processes. This managed approach ensures that outstanding organisational work is concluded in an orderly manner, while preventing disruptions to the broader electoral programme. No new conferences may be convened beyond this framework. All structures are therefore expected to exercise discipline and adhere strictly to organisational directives as the ANC is seized with the 2026 Local Government Elections programme.

In line with the approved electoral timetable, the ANC confirms that Branch General Meetings (BGMs) for the 2026 Local Government Elections candidate selection process officially commenced on 01 April 2026. All branches are therefore expected to proceed with candidate nomination processes in strict adherence to the guidelines, ensuring broad participation, transparency and organisational discipline.

To further the transformation of developmental local government, the ANC in this election is taking extraordinary steps to ensure leadership deployed to municipalities is capable, ethical, disciplined and accountable. Central to this intervention is a reconfiguration of both the councillor and mayoral candidate selection processes, combining organisational democracy with strategic leadership deployment.

At the level of councillor selection, the ANC reaffirms the centrality of its branches as the basic units of democracy and centres of community organisation. The candidate selection process will be rooted in Branch General Meetings, complemented by structured community engagements that allow residents to interrogate, assess and express confidence in those who seek to represent them as ANC ward councillors.

This process ensures that candidates emerge not only through organisational processes, but through community legitimacy, guided by clear criteria of integrity, capability, political commitment and service to the people. The Electoral Committee, Provincial List Committees and vetting structures will ensure that all candidates meet the required standards, including qualifications, ethical standing and organisational discipline.

This approach represents a decisive break from gatekeeping, manipulation and narrow interests, and reasserts the principle that public representatives must be both products of the movement and servants of the people.

Building on this democratic foundation, the ANC is now formally launching the Mayoral Candidate Selection Process, which introduces a strengthened, centralised and competency-based approach to the identification and deployment of executive leadership in key municipalities.

This programme introduces a fundamental shift in how the ANC governs and deploys leadership. The first phase establishes a centralised implementation machinery within the Office of the Secretary General, supported by a dedicated Secretariat and working in coordination with the Local Government Interventions Committee and other organisational structures. This will ensure uniformity, strategic oversight, discipline and consistency in implementation across all provinces.

Building on this foundation, the ANC will embark on an intensive national process of identifying and headhunting capable mayoral candidates from across society. 

This includes experienced public representatives, professionals, community leaders, veterans of government, and individuals with proven leadership track records and governance capability. This approach deliberately expands the pool of leadership beyond our robust internal ANC processes, while remaining firmly rooted in the values and discipline of the organisation.

In line with the ANC’s commitment to deepen democracy and rebuild public confidence, the movement will open a window for public submissions, inviting communities, stakeholders and broader society to propose individuals they believe possess the requisite qualities to serve as mayors. This process will be complemented by structured consultation with provincial and regional leadership to ensure that the final pool of candidates reflects both national strategic priorities and the lived realities of communities.

A rigorous and transparent assessment process will then be undertaken. This includes competency-based interviews, verification of qualifications, background checks, and lifestyle audits where necessary. These measures are designed to ensure that candidates are not only politically grounded, but possess the technical capability, administrative competence, ethical integrity and leadership capacity required to manage complex municipalities and deliver meaningful change.

The ANC is clear, leadership must be earned through merit, discipline and capacity. Deployment is not an entitlement; it is a responsibility and a mandate to serve.

Following this process, the National Officials will finalise and ratify mayoral candidates based on their credibility, competence and ability to implement the ANC’s programme of transformation. This will include the strategic configuration of leadership collectives within municipalities to ensure stability, coherence and effective governance. 

The process will unfold according to clear milestones:

• Identification, consultation and longlisting through April 2026;

• Shortlisting, verification and vetting by mid-May 2026;

• Structured interviews across all provinces in early June 2026;

• Finalisation and announcement of mayoral candidates by June 2026.

This programme covers 8 metropolitan municipalities and 22 secondary cities, which are central to economic activity, infrastructure development and service delivery in South Africa. The ANC will approach these deployments with the seriousness and strategic focus they demand.

The ANC will then move into a critical phase of leadership preparation and political consolidation. All selected candidates will undergo structured training and induction, including programmes facilitated through the OR Tambo School of Leadership, to ensure alignment with ANC policies, governance frameworks and the electoral strategy. Candidates will be required to develop clear, implementable local programmes of action for their cities and towns, aligned to the ANC’s 2026 Manifesto.

The announcement of mayoral candidates will be undertaken in a phased and strategic manner, balancing organisational stability with the imperative of building public confidence and unity.

Central to this new approach is the institutionalisation of accountability. Upon assuming office, all ANC mayors will be required to sign binding public Mayoral Delivery Agreements, setting out clear performance targets, timelines and measurable outcomes. These agreements will be subject to continuous monitoring through structured performance reviews.

Where there is underperformance, instability or failure to meet agreed targets, the ANC will act decisively. Intervention mechanisms, including leadership reconfiguration and recall, will be implemented without hesitation. This marks a decisive break from any tolerance for underperformance and signals a firm shift towards a culture of consequence management and delivery.

This implementation programme gives practical expression to the ANC’s understanding that it is engaged in both a battle of delivery and a battle of credibility. It is not enough to deliver, the people must experience, recognise and trust that delivery is taking place.

The ANC further emphasises that this process advances renewal, inclusivity and transformation. Women, young people, experienced cadres and leaders from diverse backgrounds will be actively advanced, ensuring that municipal leadership reflects the character, diversity and aspirations of South African society.

The ANC also notes the national process of ward delimitation, which directly affects our structures, especially branch reconfigurations and representation. The organisation will issue detailed guidelines to assist branches and structures in aligning to new ward boundaries in the next two weeks, ensuring that the candidate selection process proceeds with clarity to ensure organisational coherence. The affected branches will resume their candidate selection BGMs at that point.

As the NEC meets, the ANC remains fully conscious of the broader socio-economic challenges facing our people. Local government remains the frontline of service delivery, economic development, social transformation, and democratic participation. The movement is therefore determined to ensure that municipalities become effective, responsive and people-centred institutions.

The ANC calls on all its structures and members to remain united, disciplined and focused. Internal processes must strengthen renewal, deepen organisational integrity and advance the interests of the people above all else. The ANC remains resolute in its mission. To renew, to correct, to rebuild, and to lead society towards a better life for all.

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