Navigating NSFAS Funded Courses in South Africa

The National Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) supports students from disadvantaged backgrounds in pursuing higher education. While NSFAS doesn’t provide a definitive list of funded courses, they generally prioritize programs aligned with South Africa’s skills needs. Here’s a guide to help you navigate NSFAS funding:

Types of Funded Programs:

• University Degrees: NSFAS primarily funds first undergraduate degrees (Bachelor’s) at public universities. These can be full-time or online programs.
• TVET College Diplomas: Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges offer various diplomas (NQF Levels 2-6) in practical fields. NSFAS prioritizes Ministerial-approved programs aligned with industry needs.

Focus Areas:

While there’s no exhaustive list, NSFAS funding generally leans towards these key areas:

• Engineering & Built Environment: Civil, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering, Construction.
• Health Sciences: Nursing, Paramedical fields.
• Education: Teaching qualifications.
• Information Technology & Computer Science: Software Development, IT Networking.
• Business & Management Studies: Accounting, Finance, Marketing, Human Resources.
• Other Areas: Hospitality, Tourism, Agriculture, Public Administration.

Finding Funded Programs:

An official list of funded programs isn’t available, but here are ways to explore options:

1. University Websites: Check the financial aid section of your desired university’s website. They often list NSFAS-funded programs.
2. TVET College Websites: Similar to universities, TVET colleges typically maintain a financial aid section with details on NSFAS-funded programs.
3. NSFAS Website: The NSFAS website (https://my.nsfas.org.za/) offers resources on eligible programs. Explore the “Funding” and “Become an Applicant” sections.
4. Contacting Institutions: Don’t hesitate to contact the financial aid office of your preferred university or TVET college. They can provide specific information on NSFAS-funded programs offered.

Additional Considerations:

• Student Profile: NSFAS prioritizes students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds. Eligibility also depends on academic performance.
• Course Availability: Funding might vary year-to-year based on government priorities.

Remember: This is a general guide. It’s crucial to research specific institutions and programs to confirm NSFAS funding availability for your chosen course.