How do I apply to university in South Africa with BridgeApp?

Create a free BridgeApp profile, add your matric subjects and marks, and BridgeApp calculates your APS score and matches you to qualifying South African universities and courses. You can then apply directly through the platform.

How do I apply for NSFAS funding for 2026?

NSFAS applications for the 2026 academic year typically open in September 2025 and close in late January 2026. BridgeApp guides you through the NSFAS application step by step — required documents, eligibility checks, and submission via the NSFAS portal at nsfas.org.za.

Who qualifies for NSFAS funding in South Africa?

NSFAS funds South African citizens with a combined household income below R350,000 per year (or R600,000 for students with disabilities) who are studying at a public university or TVET college. BridgeApp helps you check eligibility and prepare supporting documents.

What bursaries can I apply for through BridgeApp?

BridgeApp matches you to NSFAS, Funza Lushaka, government bursaries, corporate bursaries, and private scholarships based on your field of study, marks, and financial profile. We surface bursaries you actually qualify for, with deadlines and document checklists.

What is an APS score and how do I calculate it?

Your APS (Admission Point Score) is calculated from your top 6 matric subjects, excluding Life Orientation. BridgeApp's free APS calculator computes your score and matches you to qualifying universities and courses across South Africa.

Can I apply to multiple universities at once?

Yes — BridgeApp lets you prepare and submit applications to multiple South African universities and TVET colleges from a single profile, then track every application, deadline, and outcome in one place.

Bridge Insights: National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS)

This guide shares essential insights on the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). We cover key lessons learnt over the years assisting thousands of learners in applying for this crucial funding scheme.

Important Update: NSFAS 2025 applications are now closed. Applications for 2026 academic year typically open around September/October. Visit www.nsfas.org.za to track your application status or check for 2026 opening dates.

1. What is NSFAS?

NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme) is a South African government initiative under the Department of Higher Education and Training. It provides financial support to eligible students who wish to pursue higher education at public universities or TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) colleges but lack the necessary funds.

2. Who Qualifies for NSFAS in 2025/2026?

To qualify for NSFAS funding, applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:

South African Citizenship – You must be a South African citizen with a valid ID, or hold permanent residency
Financial Need – Your combined household income must not exceed R350,000 per year (or R600,000 for students with disabilities)
Academic Enrollment – You must be enrolled or accepted at a public university or TVET college
SASSA Beneficiaries – Students receiving grants from the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) automatically qualify for NSFAS
First-Time or Returning Students – Both first-time applicants and returning students who meet the criteria can apply

Important: NSFAS only funds public higher learning institutions and not private institutions.

3. What Does NSFAS Cover?

NSFAS funding covers:

Tuition fees
Accommodation allowance
Learning materials allowance
Living allowance (for food and personal care)
Transport allowance

4. How to Apply for NSFAS

Applications are submitted online through the NSFAS portal at my.nsfas.org.za. You will need:

Valid South African ID document
Proof of income (or SASSA documentation)
Academic records
Active email address and cellphone number

5. What Happens if I Provide False Information?

NSFAS has defunded families who have falsified household income. Their systems are linked to third-party systems like SARS to verify actual household income. Providing false information can result in:

Immediate defunding
Required repayment of funds received
Permanent disqualification from future NSFAS funding

6. Appeals Process

NSFAS has an appeal process for rejected applications. If your circumstances have changed (such as job loss or change in family income), you can submit an appeal with supporting documentation.

⚠️ Beware of Scams: Many scams emerge during application periods, falsely claiming to represent NSFAS. Always use official NSFAS channels and never pay anyone to help you apply – NSFAS applications are FREE.

For official information, always visit www.nsfas.org.za or call the NSFAS contact centre.

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