Receiving a NSFAS rejection can be stressful and discouraging, especially if you were relying on funding to continue your studies. However, a rejection does not automatically mean the end of your study plans. There are clear steps you can take to understand the decision, appeal if necessary, and explore alternative funding options.
This guide explains what to do if NSFAS rejects your application and how to move forward.
Why NSFAS Applications Get Rejected
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) may reject applications for several reasons, including:
- Household income exceeds the NSFAS threshold
- Missing or incorrect supporting documents
- Incorrect personal or academic information
- Not meeting academic eligibility requirements
- Already holding a qualification at the same or higher level
- Institution or course not funded by NSFAS
Understanding the reason for rejection is the first and most important step.
Step 1: Check the Reason for Rejection Carefully
Log in to your NSFAS online portal and:
- View your application status
- Read the exact reason for rejection
- Check whether the issue is administrative or eligibility-related
Some rejections are due to fixable errors, while others relate to funding criteria.
Step 2: Submit a NSFAS Appeal (If You Qualify)
If you believe your application was unfairly rejected, you may submit a NSFAS appeal.
You can appeal if:
- Your household income has changed
- A parent or guardian has passed away
- You submitted incorrect or incomplete documents
- There was an error in your application assessment
Important:
- Appeals must be submitted within the NSFAS appeal window
- Late appeals are usually not accepted
- Supporting documents must be uploaded clearly and correctly
Appeals are submitted online via the NSFAS portal.
Step 3: Correct and Re-submit Information (If Allowed)
In some cases, NSFAS allows applicants to:
- Upload missing documents
- Correct incorrect information
Follow the instructions on the portal carefully and ensure all documents are:
- Certified (where required)
- Clear and readable
- Uploaded in the correct format
Step 4: Contact Your Institution’s Financial Aid Office
If your appeal is unsuccessful or unclear:
- Visit or contact your university or TVET college financial aid office
- Ask for guidance on:
- NSFAS appeal support
- Alternative funding options
- Payment arrangements
Institutions often have internal bursaries or hardship funds.
Step 5: Explore Alternative Funding Options
If NSFAS funding is not approved, consider:
1. University or TVET College Bursaries
Many institutions offer:
- Faculty-based bursaries
- Merit or need-based funding
- Payment plans
2. Government and Private Bursaries
Look for:
- Sector-specific bursaries
- Municipal or provincial bursaries
- Private company bursaries
Some bursaries close after NSFAS results, so keep checking.
3. Learnerships and Apprenticeships
Learnerships:
- Offer a stipend
- Include accredited training
- Do not require NSFAS
They are supported by SETAs and linked to workplace skills.
4. Part-Time Study or Work-Study Options
You may consider:
- Studying part-time
- Working while studying
- Registering for fewer modules
This can reduce immediate financial pressure.
Step 6: Avoid Bogus Funding Promises
Be cautious of:
- “Guaranteed funding” offers
- Agents requesting upfront fees
- Fake NSFAS messages or links
Always verify information through official NSFAS and institutional channels.
What Not to Do After a NSFAS Rejection
- Do not panic or give up
- Do not ignore appeal deadlines
- Do not submit false documents
- Do not rely on social media rumours
Taking calm, informed action is key.
Final Thoughts
A NSFAS rejection is disappointing, but it does not mean your education journey is over. Many students successfully appeal, secure alternative funding, or take different study routes before reaching their goals.
What matters most is staying informed, meeting deadlines, and exploring all legitimate options.
The post What to Do If NSFAS Rejects Your Application appeared first on StudentRoom.co.za.
