Deadline looming for NSFAS 2019 applications

“On average, NSFAS has been receiving 3 500 applications a day."

Felicia Nkhwashu

November 6, 2018

Students who wish to further their studies at a public university or college and need financial assistance have until 30 November to apply for funding.

The national student financial aid scheme (NSFAS) has called on all learners, who have not yet applied for 2019 financial aid, to submit their online applications before the closing date.

As of Monday, 5 November, NSFAS had received more than 190 000 applications since 1 September.

ALSO READ: TUT students protest over money

This is more than double the number of applications that had been received by October 2017 according to NSFAS administrator Randall Carolissen.

“On average, NSFAS has been receiving 3 500 applications a day. The numbers can be attributed to the easy-to-complete online application system that allows applicants to complete the application within five minutes. Our partnerships across the country have also improved our outreach,” Carolissen said.

Students are encouraged to submit applications online or at their nearest national youth development agency (NYDA) centre before the closing date.

The NYDA has partnered with NSFAS to utilise its branches in all nine provinces to support the application process.

ALSO READ: New programme helps unemployed youths

Carolissen said more than 30 000 students had submitted their application through the NYDA offices to date.

“NSFAS has communicated to all vice-chancellors and college principals that the closing date for applications is 30 November and no extension will be granted.

“Institutions were also informed that NSFAS funded students, with a confirmed bursary offer, should not pay a registration fee when they present themselves for registration in January 2019,” Carolissen said.

Carolissen said “NSFAS will not accept applications after 30 November 2018”.