Applications for National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) bursaries will officially open on Friday for the 2025 academic year. This was announced by Minister of Higher Education, Dr Nobuhle Nkabane earlier today.

DELAYS

The applications were initially set to start today, but the department postponed the date due to concerns raised by student organisations in universities and TVET colleges. During a joint briefing with the NSFAS administrator Freeman Nomvalo on the developments, Nkabane said that the decision to delay the application launch was driven by the need to conduct a dry run of the online system and incorporate feedback from stakeholders. "It was due to these critical consultations that we have had to postpone the launch of the 2025 NSFAS online applications launch, which is a significant concern for students nationwide," she said. The Minister added that the feedback received has already informed critical system changes to simplify the online application process and also make it accessible to all. Nkabane said amongst others, the stakeholder engagements helped enrich the department's understanding of matters such as student funding model and its interface with the SETAs and that private student accommodation should be a conducive environment for both learning and living.

THE PROCESS WILL BE SMOOTH THIS YEAR

Nkabane added that she is now confident that NSFAS is ready to kickstart the 2025 online application process. "We are confident that this year's process will run more smoothly and that students will experience fewer delays," she said. Nkabane encouraged learners who will be sitting for the Grade 12 exams next month to apply for financial aid. "I am inviting all students who are seating for their matriculation this year to take this opportunity and apply for either the NSFAS bursary or loan. This invitation is also extended to learners from grades 9, 10, and 11 who would like to enter the technical and vocational education and training sector," she said.