Registration and NSFAS: What You Need to Know Before You Register

Every year, thousands of students ask the same question:

“If NSFAS has approved me, will I be able to register for free?”

The short answer is yes, but the reality is a bit more complicated. Let’s break it down so you know exactly what to expect and how to avoid losing your space.

How NSFAS Registration Actually Works

Once NSFAS approves your funding, they send a list of approved students to all universities. After receiving this list, the university:

• Removes your financial block
• Allows you to register without paying upfront fees

That’s how registration is supposed to work.

The Real Problem Students Face

The biggest challenge is timing.

Sometimes NSFAS sends the approved list late, and while you are waiting:

• Registration is already open
• The system still shows you as financially blocked
• Courses continue to fill up

By the time the block is lifted, the qualification you wanted may already be full.

So, What’s the Solution?

Step 1: Check Your Registration Status Immediately

As soon as registration opens:

• Log into the university portal
• Check if you are blocked due to fees

Step 2: If You Are Blocked and You Have the Registration Fee

If you can afford the registration fee:

• Pay it immediately
• Use the fastest payment method, usually online payment
• Online payments often reflect instantly

Once the payment reflects:

• Register right away
• Secure your space

Later, when NSFAS pays the university, you can claim your registration fee back through the institution’s refund process.

What If You Don’t Have the Registration Fee?

If you cannot afford the fee:

• Unfortunately, you may have to wait
• Hope that your account is unblocked soon
• Or that the university allows temporary registration

There’s no guaranteed solution here, timing becomes critical.

Very Important Warning: Avoid Dual Registration

DO NOT register at more than one institution.

Why?

• NSFAS does not fund dual registrations
• You could lose your funding entirely

How NSFAS Knows Where You’re Registered

After you register:

• The university sends proof of registration to NSFAS
• NSFAS then settles:
  • Tuition fees
  • Allowances
  • Other approved costs

Only one institution can submit this proof.

Can You Register If Your NSFAS Status Is Still “Verification”?

This depends on the university.

In many cases:

• You can register if you are able to pay the registration fee
• While waiting for your status to change to Provisionally Funded

Some universities are flexible, others are strict, always check their registration rules.

Final Advice

• Check your registration status early
• Act fast if you’re blocked and able to pay
• Avoid registering at multiple institutions
• Understand that NSFAS funding works on confirmation and timing

Being proactive can be the difference between securing your spot and losing it.