In a major policy shift announced in May 2025, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has officially converted thousands of pending student loan applications into full bursaries. This change comes after an in-depth reassessment process that focused on household income and revised financial aid eligibility rules.
This development offers a significant financial reprieve to students from low- and middle-income families by eliminating the burden of repayment. It marks a broader commitment by NSFAS to provide sustainable educational funding and improve access to higher education.
NSFAS 2025 Application Review: Key Statistics
The most recent NSFAS statistics highlight the scale of this transformation. A large proportion of loan applicants are now beneficiaries of non-repayable bursaries, thanks to new eligibility assessments.
| Application Status | Number of Applicants |
|---|---|
| Approved for Bursaries | 16,013 |
| Applications Still Under Review | 1,504 |
| Rejected Applications | 1,487 |
| Rejected (Income Above R600,000 Threshold) | 104 |
With more than 16,000 students now receiving bursaries instead of loans, this decision impacts a broad segment of the student population, especially those previously facing the prospect of debt.
NSFAS Bursary Income Threshold for 2025
Eligibility for NSFAS bursaries or loans is determined by the applicant’s household income. As of 2025, the financial brackets are as follows:
| Funding Type | Annual Household Income Range |
| NSFAS Bursary | R350,000 or less |
| NSFAS Loan | R350,001 to R600,000 |
Applicants from households earning R350,000 or less per year qualify for a full bursary. Those within the R350,001 to R600,000 bracket may be eligible for a loan, which carries repayment obligations but still eases the overall financial burden of higher education.
What NSFAS Covers in 2025: Full Financial Breakdown
NSFAS doesn’t just cover tuition—it offers a holistic support system to ensure students can focus on their studies without financial stress. Here is what the 2025 bursary package includes:
- Tuition Fees: Fully covered at all approved public universities and TVET colleges.
- Registration Fees: Paid directly to institutions to avoid upfront costs for students.
- Accommodation: Funding available for both on-campus and off-campus housing.
- Living Allowances: Monthly support for food, transport, and personal essentials.
- Study Materials: Financial aid for textbooks, stationery, and digital devices.
This level of comprehensive support ensures that students are equipped both academically and practically.
Support for TVET College Students: May 2025 Status
As of May 2025, TVET college applications submitted before the final NSFAS deadline in January are undergoing evaluation. Final outcomes are expected to be released in the coming weeks. Qualified TVET students will receive the same financial benefits as university applicants, provided they meet the academic and income requirements.
NSFAS Application Status: How to Track Yours in May 2025
To stay updated, students should regularly check their NSFAS application progress. Here’s how:
- Go to www.nsfas.org.za
- Log into your MyNSFAS account using your ID number and password.
- Review your dashboard to see the current status of your application.
- Enable notifications to get real-time updates via SMS or email.
Students currently under review should make sure that all required documents are submitted to avoid processing delays or rejections.
Conclusion
The 2025 NSFAS policy change is a landmark decision that reflects a more inclusive and supportive approach to student funding in South Africa. By converting thousands of loan applications into bursaries, NSFAS is helping more students complete their education without accumulating debt. With full financial coverage, including tuition, accommodation, and living costs, the scheme continues to be a vital tool for building a more equitable education system.
FAQs
Who qualifies for a full NSFAS bursary in 2025?
Students whose household income is R350,000 or less annually are eligible for a full bursary, covering tuition and other related costs.
What happens if your income is between R350,001 and R600,000?
Applicants within this income range may be eligible for an NSFAS loan, which must be repaid but still offers considerable financial relief.
How do I know if I received a bursary or loan?
Check your MyNSFAS account dashboard. Your application status will indicate whether you’ve been awarded a bursary or loan.
Do TVET students receive the same support as university students?
Yes, provided they meet the same income and academic eligibility criteria.
When will final TVET bursary decisions be released?
NSFAS is expected to announce final outcomes for TVET college applicants by the end of May 2025.
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