In a major development this April, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has announced that thousands of students who applied for student loans in 2025 have now been approved for bursaries instead. This change follows a comprehensive review process to reclassify qualifying students based on household income and funding guidelines.
The result is a huge win for students in need of financial assistance, especially those from low- and middle-income backgrounds who would have otherwise had to repay student loans.
How Many 2025 NSFAS Applicants Now Receive Bursaries
NSFAS has released the latest figures on the 2025 academic year, outlining how many loan applicants were approved for bursaries after final assessments.
| Application Status | Number of Applicants |
|---|---|
| Approved for Bursaries | 16,013 |
| Applications Still Under Review | 1,504 |
| Rejected Applications | 1,487 |
| Rejected Due to Income Over R600,000 | 104 |
With over 16,000 applicants already approved for bursaries, it’s clear that a majority of students who initially applied for loans will not have to repay the funds they receive.
NSFAS Income Thresholds Explained – Bursary vs Loan
Eligibility for NSFAS funding depends on household income, divided into two categories:
| Funding Type | Annual Household Income Required |
|---|---|
| NSFAS Bursary | R350,000 or less |
| NSFAS Loan | R350,001 – R600,000 |
If your family income falls below the R350,000 mark, you automatically qualify for a full bursary, covering tuition, accommodation, food, and study materials.
What Financial Support Is Covered by NSFAS in 2025
NSFAS funding goes beyond just tuition. It provides a comprehensive student support package, including:
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Full tuition coverage at approved public universities and TVET colleges
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Registration fees paid directly to institutions
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Accommodation allowances (on-campus and off-campus)
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Living allowances for food and personal needs
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Learning material allowances for textbooks, stationery, or laptops
This ensures that students can focus on their studies without the stress of managing daily expenses.
What’s the Latest Update for TVET College Applicants
The final NSFAS application window for TVET colleges closed in January 2025. Applicants from that period are currently being evaluated, and final decisions are expected to be released in the coming weeks.
TVET college students are eligible for the same range of support, provided they meet the institutional and income-based requirements.
READ MORE: South Africa Social Grant & Wage Hike April 2025: New Payouts and Eligibility Explained
How to Track Your NSFAS Application Status in April 2025
If you applied for NSFAS in 2025 and haven’t yet received confirmation, it’s important to monitor your application status regularly. Here’s how you can do it:
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Go to the official NSFAS website at www.nsfas.org.za
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Click MyNSFAS and log in using your ID and password
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Navigate to your application dashboard to view progress
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Subscribe for SMS or email updates under your account settings
Applicants under review are advised to upload any outstanding documents or corrections as soon as requested by NSFAS to avoid rejection or delay.
FAQs
Who qualifies for NSFAS bursaries in 2025?
Students with a household income of R350,000 or less per year qualify for full NSFAS bursaries, provided they meet other academic and enrollment requirements.
How many NSFAS loan applicants received bursaries in 2025?
As of April 2025, 16,013 out of 17,517 loan applicants have been approved for bursaries after reevaluation.
Can I still receive funding if my household earns between R350,000 and R600,000?
Yes, students in this income range may qualify for NSFAS loans, which require repayment but offer better terms than private loans.
Is NSFAS funding available for TVET college students?
Yes, NSFAS supports students at public TVET colleges, covering tuition, transport, accommodation, and learning materials.
What happens if my application is still under review?
Your application is likely being assessed. Log in to MyNSFAS to check for pending actions, such as missing documents or verification steps.
Will rejected applicants be able to appeal?
Yes, rejected applicants can appeal within 30 days of receiving the decision. Instructions will be provided through your NSFAS account.
How can I receive updates on my funding status?
You can check updates via the NSFAS website or subscribe to SMS/email alerts by logging into your MyNSFAS account.
What documents are required to apply for NSFAS?
Typically, you’ll need a certified ID copy, proof of income, admission letter, and if applicable, academic transcripts and parental details.
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Aanchal is a passionate writer with a keen interest in storytelling, content creation, and creative expression. She enjoys exploring diverse topics and crafting engaging narratives that captivate readers.