The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has recently launched its 2024 application process, introducing innovative changes to simplify the application process for students. The premier bursary scheme in South Africa, NSFAS, has been working towards enhancing the application process for students to improve the ease of access to financial aid.
Blade Nzimande, the Minister of Higher Education, Science, and Innovation, has expressed confidence in the enhancements made to the application process by NSFAS. The bursary application process for the academic year 2024 has been designed to be more user-friendly and accessible to students, making it easier for them to apply for financial assistance.
Major Changes in NSFAS 2024 Applications
NSFAS has implemented several improvements to facilitate the application process for students. One of the most notable changes is the introduction of a mobile application available on iOS, Android, and HUAWEI devices.
This new system aims to streamline the application process and make it easier for eligible students to apply for funding. Additionally, applicants are no longer required to submit certified documents when applying for the 2024 NSFAS applications. Minister Nzimande urges all eligible students to seize the opportunity and apply for funding.
NSFAS Launches Mobile App
NSFAS has taken a significant step towards modernizing the bursary application process by introducing a mobile application for the 2024 application cycle. The mobile app is now available on iOS, Android, and HUAWEI platforms.
Minister Nzimande has praised this technological innovation, anticipating that the mobile app would simplify the application process for students. The NSFAS mobile app aims to facilitate a seamless application experience for students.
The app is set to incorporate biometric capabilities later in the year, which will further streamline the application process. This move is expected to increase accessibility, convenience, and efficiency for students applying for NSFAS bursaries.
Improved Status Updates with WhatsApp
NSFAS has introduced new and improved ways for students to track their application status and funding details. As part of their digital strategy, the student application portal has been upgraded to provide a more user-friendly experience based on lessons learned from previous years.
Students can now conveniently track their NSFAS application statuses and funding details through WhatsApp at 078 519 8006 and USSD at 12067327#. These functionalities, introduced in 2023, have been refined to include additional features such as confirmation of registration information. This offers increased accessibility for applicants for the 2024 academic year.
NSFAS Funding and Eligibility Criteria
Financial Eligibility Requirements
To apply for NSFAS funding, students must meet financial eligibility criteria. As of 2023, the financial eligibility criteria for NSFAS funding remain unchanged. The household income of the applicant must not exceed R350,000, while the limit for disabled students is R600,000. If the applicant meets the criteria and is approved, NSFAS covers tuition and registration fees. Additionally, NSFAS provides additional allowances to assist students with various study-related expenses.
