NSFAS says it will not re-open 2018 applications
The body says it will work with institutions of higher learning to assist with funding decisions for students who have applied for academic spaces without having applied for NSFAS funding.
POLOKWANE – The National Students Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) says it will not be reopening applications for funding for the 2018 academic year, but will work with tertiary institutions to assist students who failed to do so in time.
NSFAS will not be re-opening 2018 applications. We will work with institutions to assist with funding decisions for students who have applied for academic spaces without having applied for NSFAS funding and others pic.twitter.com/fE7DEjWq2a
— NSFAS (@myNSFAS) January 4, 2018
This followed fake news spread on social media saying applications would reopen.
According to the Minister of Higher Education and Training, Hlengiwe Mkhize, NSFAS had received in excess of 300 000 applications for first year students for the 2018 academic year at universities and TVET colleges.
“Government assures South Africans that all applicants in possession of a firm offer from a university or TVET college will be assessed for funding using the revised criteria,” she said.
NSFAS says they have already assessed 80% of the applications using the new criteria and will be communicating outcomes to all applicants from 12 January 2018.
“These outcomes will be made upon confirmation of institutional admission offers,” a statement read.
All new first time entry (FTEN) students who have been allocated space but haven’t applied directly to NSFAS will be assisted. They will, however, have to supply the institution with mandatory documentation such as identity documentation of parent, legal guardian or spouse and proof of income or SASSA.
Students that haven’t applied to the Institution of Higher learning and have also not applied to NSFAS during the registration period will be assisted through the Department of Higher Education and Training’s Central Applications Clearing House (CACH) and are advised to register on this platform.
“For the 2018 continuing students, who were funded by NSFAS in 2017, their study loans will now be converted into a bursary to cover their full cost of study.”
NSFAS concluded by saying that as a scheme, they are committed to continue playing their part in creating a fair society in which education and training is valued and respected, and where young people are empowered to flourish and fulfil their potential.
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