University education can be costly, but that shouldn’t stop you from pursuing a degree. This is where NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme) plays a crucial role. It’s a government-funded initiative aimed at assisting students from low-income families in accessing higher education without the financial strain.
If you find it challenging to cover tuition, accommodation, or study materials, NSFAS might be the solution you need. However, not every university is eligible for NSFAS funding, so it’s important to select the right institution to ensure you receive the necessary support.
This guide will show you all the universities in South Africa that offer NSFAS, plus how to apply and what to expect from the process.
Public Universities Offering NSFAS Funding
If you’re applying for NSFAS, you’ll need to study at one of the following 26 public universities in South Africa. These institutions are fully accredited by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and accept NSFAS bursaries.
Traditional Universities (Research & Academic Focused)
- University of Cape Town (UCT)
- University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
- Stellenbosch University
- University of Pretoria (UP)
- Rhodes University
- University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
- University of the Free State (UFS)
- University of Fort Hare (UFH)
- North-West University (NWU)
- University of Limpopo (UL)
Comprehensive Universities (Academic & Practical Learning Combined)
- Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
- University of South Africa (UNISA)
- University of Johannesburg (UJ)
- University of Venda (UNIVEN)
- Walter Sisulu University (WSU)
- University of Zululand (UNIZULU)
- Sol Plaatje University (SPU)
- University of Mpumalanga (UMP)
Universities of Technology (Career-Focused & Hands-On Training)
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
- Durban University of Technology (DUT)
- Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)
- Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
- Vaal University of Technology (VUT)
- Central University of Technology (CUT)
- Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU)
- Walter Sisulu University (WSU)
These 26 universities are the only institutions where NSFAS funding applies. Private universities and colleges do not qualify for NSFAS, but some may offer alternative funding options.
Universities That Do NOT Offer NSFAS
Most private universities in South Africa do not accept NSFAS funding. However, some provide their own bursaries, scholarships, or student loans. If you’re considering a private institution, check whether they offer:
Some private universities that offer alternative financial aid include:
- STADIO
- Milpark Education
- Regent Business School
- MANCOSA
- Regenesys Business School
Pro Tip: If NSFAS is your only funding option, stick to public universities to ensure you get financial support.
SEE: How to Apply for NSFAS Funding
If you’re serious about getting free higher education, NSFAS is your best bet. It covers tuition, accommodation, textbooks, and even transport giving you the chance to study without financial stress.
But don’t wait too long because NSFAS funding is limited, and applications close well before the academic year begins.