Funding Options for Students Who Don’t Qualify for NSFAS

For thousands of South African students, not qualifying for funding from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) can feel like the end of the road. Each year, many academically capable learners fall outside the NSFAS funding threshold due to household income limits or eligibility criteria that exclude certain courses or institutions. 

However, higher education does not have to come to a halt. There are several alternative funding options available for students who do not qualify for NSFAS, ranging from bursaries and scholarships to student loans and institutional support.

Why Some Students Don’t Qualify for NSFAS

NSFAS primarily supports students from households with a combined annual income of R350 000 or less, and up to R600 000 for students living with disabilities. 

Students who come from households earning slightly above this threshold are often referred to as the “missing middle”. 

While their families may not be able to afford university fees outright, they are still considered too “financially able” to receive NSFAS support. In addition, NSFAS funding is limited to certain public universities and TVET colleges, excluding private institutions entirely.

Funding Options for Students Who Don’t Qualify for NSFAS

University Bursaries and Scholarships

One of the most common alternatives to NSFAS is university-funded bursaries and scholarships. Many public universities in South Africa offer merit-based and need-based funding to students who are not funded by NSFAS.

 Merit bursaries are usually awarded to students with strong academic performance, while need-based bursaries consider household income and financial circumstances.

Universities may also offer departmental bursaries, particularly in scarce-skills fields such as engineering, health sciences, teaching, and science-related programmes. 

These bursaries are often advertised on university websites or through student financial aid offices.

Private and Corporate Bursaries

Numerous private companies, foundations, and organisations provide bursaries to South African students. These bursaries are often linked to specific fields of study and may include a work-back obligation, meaning the student agrees to work for the funding organisation after graduating.

Corporate bursaries are common in sectors such as mining, banking, engineering, ICT, accounting, and education. While competition can be high, these bursaries often cover full study costs, including tuition, accommodation, books, and living allowances. 

Applications usually open months in advance, and students are encouraged to apply to multiple bursary schemes to improve their chances.

Student Loans from Banks and Financial Institutions

For students who do not qualify for bursaries or scholarships, student loans remain an option. Major South African banks offer student loans that cover tuition fees, accommodation, textbooks, and in some cases, living expenses. These loans typically require a creditworthy parent or guardian to act as a surety.

Although student loans must be repaid with interest, many banks offer favourable repayment terms, including repayment starting only after the student completes their studies or secures employment. Some institutions also offer reduced interest rates for students in high-demand fields.

Employer and SETA Funding

Students who are already employed or whose parents are employed in certain sectors may qualify for funding through Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs). SETAs support skills development and may fund studies related to specific industries, particularly through learnerships, internships, and skills programmes.

In some cases, employers offer study assistance or tuition reimbursement to employees or their dependants. This option is especially relevant for part-time students or those pursuing qualifications aligned with workplace needs.

TVET College Funding and Payment Plans

For students enrolled at TVET colleges who do not qualify for NSFAS, some colleges offer internal bursaries, scholarships, or flexible payment plans. These arrangements allow students to pay fees in instalments rather than upfront, easing the immediate financial burden.

TVET colleges may also have partnerships with local businesses or municipalities that provide limited funding for students in priority skills programmes.

Crowdfunding and Community Support

An increasing number of students are turning to crowdfunding platforms and community-based support to raise money for their studies. While this option requires active promotion and transparency, it has helped some students cover shortfalls in tuition or accommodation costs. Faith-based organisations, community trusts, and local NGOs may also offer once-off financial assistance.

Planning Ahead Is Key

Students who do not qualify for NSFAS are encouraged to plan early, research widely, and apply for multiple funding options simultaneously. Missing application deadlines is one of the main reasons students lose out on alternative funding opportunities. Financial aid offices, career guidance centres, and reputable education websites can provide up-to-date information on available funding.

A Broader Conversation on Student Funding

The growing number of students who fall outside NSFAS eligibility continues to fuel debate around the affordability of higher education in South Africa. While NSFAS remains a critical lifeline for many, the “missing middle” highlights the need for expanded and diversified funding models.

For now, students who do not qualify for NSFAS are not without options. With determination, careful research, and timely applications, alternative funding routes can still open the door to higher education and a better future.