After completing the three simple steps mentioned earlier, you can determine whether you have been approved for NSFAS funding by conducting a status check.
Please be patient when checking your NSFAS status, as it may take some time for your application to be processed successfully.
Remember, your NSFAS funding application and your application for admission to a university or college are separate processes. Ensure that you focus on both applications and provide all the necessary information to complete them.
If you require accommodation in a residence, it is important to apply in a timely manner. Therefore, keep an eye on your NSFAS status as well as your academic status.
NSFAS Application Status Check 2023
You can successfully check your NSFAS status using the below approach.
- Visit the NSFAS website
- Go to “MyNSFAS“
- Enter your username and password to access your MyNSFAS Account
- Select “Track funding progress” from the menu
- On the dashboard, you will see the status.
- Either funded or unfunded will be indicated by the status
Understanding NSFAS Application Status
It is crucial to comprehend the meaning of your NSFAS application status when checking for updates. There are various NSFAS application status codes with specific names. Here is an explanation of what each status means:
Application Submitted: This status indicates that your application has been successfully uploaded onto the NSFAS system.
Filtering: The system verifies if you are a returning student and whether you possess any previous qualifications. NSFAS only provides funding for your first qualification, so if you already have a qualification, you will not be eligible for funding.
Validation: This status appears when NSFAS conducts third-party checks with SASSA (South African Social Security Agency) and the Department of Home Affairs. They need to confirm whether you are a SASSA beneficiary, as this information supports your bursary application. If you encounter any issues with your ID number registration at Home Affairs, it is advisable to rectify them before starting your NSFAS online application.
Evaluation: NSFAS is in the process of verifying all the documents you submitted during your application.
Funding Eligibility: NSFAS is verifying the financial status of your household as declared in your application. Currently, to qualify for NSFAS funding, your annual household income must not exceed R350,000 from either one or both of your parents. However, if you, as the applicant, have a disability, the annual household income threshold can be as high as R600,000.
Awaiting Academic Results/Admission: NSFAS is reviewing your academic results and checking your institution's admission status to ensure that you meet the requirements for NSFAS funding. This step may take some time as NSFAS needs information from your chosen institution.
Awaiting Registration: NSFAS is receiving data from your institution to facilitate the creation of a bursary agreement. This stage may also require some waiting time as NSFAS relies on information from your chosen institution.
Signing of Agreement: You need to sign your bursary agreement at this stage so that NSFAS can disburse your allowances.
Payments: Your allowances are now being paid either through the NSFAS mobile wallet system or directly through your institution. Students are advised to regularly monitor the myNSFAS portal for updates.
Track Your Funding Progress
It is essential to track the progress of your funding application using the NSFAS status checking tools. Make sure that your application does not encounter any issues or administrative errors.
As NSFAS handles a large number of applications each year, there is a small possibility of problems and administrative errors occurring. You certainly don't want to be one of those affected!
Household Financial Status
Remember, the current rule for NSFAS is that you qualify for funding if the combined annual household income of your family does not exceed R350,000.
However, if you, as the applicant, have a disability, additional support is available, and the household income threshold can be as high as R600,000 for you to qualify for NSFAS.
What Does NSFAS Cover? Is It Only Tuition Fees?
NSFAS bursaries not only cover tuition fees but also assist with accommodation costs.
There are specific criteria to determine eligibility for financial assistance with accommodation. This typically depends on the distance between your place of residence and the university or college you will be attending.
During your NSFAS application, you will indicate your place of residence, enabling them to assess your proximity to the campus where you will study.
Additionally, there are different rules regarding the living allowance provided with the NSFAS bursary for TVET College and university students. TVET Colleges usually provide textbooks for their students, while universities require students to purchase their own textbooks.