If your NSFAS application for the 2025 academic year was rejected, don’t lose hope. As of April 2025, thousands of students across South Africa are navigating the same situation. While it can be disappointing, being declined for funding is not the end of the road.
NSFAS offers an opportunity for students to submit an appeal if they believe the rejection was incorrect. Here’s how you can take control of your funding future by submitting a proper appeal and tracking your status.
How to Know If Your NSFAS Application Was Rejected
When checking your NSFAS status online, a rejected application will show a ‘Rejected’ message under the application progress tab. If you disagree with the result, you’re eligible to submit an appeal along with the required documentation to support your case.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Submit a NSFAS Appeal in April 2025
-
Visit the official myNSFAS portal.
-
Log in using your username and password.
-
Click on ‘Track Funding Progress’.
-
Check the application progress tabs. If it shows ‘unsuccessful’, you’ll see a ‘Submit Appeal’ button.
-
Click on it to go to the ‘Application Appeal’ page.
-
Review the specific reason why your application was declined.
-
Choose your appeal reason from the provided list.
-
Upload certified supporting documents as evidence.
-
Click ‘Submit Appeal’ to complete the process.
You can return to your myNSFAS account at any time to track the progress of your appeal.
NSFAS 2025 Appeal Assessment and Next Steps
NSFAS aims to respond to submitted appeals within 30 days. Students whose bursary applications are ultimately unsuccessful may still be considered for a NSFAS student loan if they meet certain financial criteria.
As of April 2025, NSFAS has received over 900,000 total applications for bursaries and loans combined, highlighting the urgency of responding quickly and submitting all required documents correctly.
Funding Details and Allowance Coverage
NSFAS supports qualifying students at public universities and TVET colleges. If approved, students receive funding for:
-
Registration and tuition fees
-
Food and accommodation allowances
-
Study materials and transport costs (where applicable)
Students must ensure their information is complete, accurate, and up-to-date to avoid delays in processing or disbursement.
FAQs
How do I know if my NSFAS application has been rejected?
Log into your myNSFAS account and check your status. If you see a message marked ‘Rejected,’ your application was unsuccessful.
Can I appeal my NSFAS rejection in April 2025?
Yes, if your rejection was incorrect or based on incomplete information, you may submit an appeal this April by following the online process.
What documents do I need to upload when submitting an appeal?
You must upload certified supporting documents that validate your reason for appeal. Examples include proof of income, medical records, or affidavits.
Where can I track my NSFAS appeal status?
Log into your myNSFAS account and check under the ‘Track Funding Progress’ section to view updates.
How long will it take to receive a response to my appeal?
NSFAS generally responds within 30 days of submission, provided all documents are submitted correctly.
If I don’t qualify for a bursary, will I be considered for a loan?
Yes, NSFAS may assess unsuccessful bursary applicants for student loans based on eligibility criteria.
Click here to know more.
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.