Introduction
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) plays a critical role in expanding access to higher education in South Africa. However, not all courses and study paths are funded by NSFAS. Many students apply every year without fully understanding NSFAS funding limits, which leads to rejections, delayed registrations, or incorrect study choices.
This guide explains which courses are not funded by NSFAS, why these exclusions exist, and what alternative funding options are available. The information is structured for clarity, accuracy, and student decision-making, especially for those planning their studies in 2026.
Understanding NSFAS Funding Scope
NSFAS is designed to support full-time undergraduate studies at public institutions for students from poor and working-class households. Its focus is on first qualifications that lead to employability and national skills development.
Anything outside this mandate is generally not covered by NSFAS.
Courses NSFAS Does NOT Fund
1. Postgraduate Studies
NSFAS does not fund postgraduate qualifications. This includes:
- Honours degrees
- Master’s degrees
- Doctoral (PhD) degrees
- Postgraduate Certificates
- Most Postgraduate Diplomas
The only limited exception is that some NQF Level 8 Postgraduate Diplomas may be considered under Missing Middle funding mechanisms, not core NSFAS bursary funding.
Important distinction:
Even if a postgraduate qualification is offered at a public university, NSFAS funding still does not apply.
2. Short Courses and Skills Programmes
NSFAS does not fund:
- Short courses
- Skills programmes
- Certificate courses not registered as full qualifications
- Online short courses
- Occupational or industry-specific training not registered as NCV, NATED, or undergraduate qualifications
These courses are usually:
- Less than one year
- Non-credit bearing
- Not aligned with formal qualification pathways
NSFAS funding is limited to registered, full qualifications only.
3. Part-Time and Distance Studies
NSFAS only funds full-time studies.
The following are not funded:
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- Part-time studies
- Evening classes
- Weekend programmes
- Most distance-learning programmes
Students must be registered as full-time students at a public university or public TVET college to qualify.
4. Second Degrees and Additional Undergraduate Qualifications
NSFAS does not fund:
- A second bachelor’s degree
- A new undergraduate qualification if you already hold one
- Additional diplomas after completing a funded undergraduate qualification
NSFAS is intended to fund one first undergraduate qualification only.
If you already have:
- A degree
- A diploma
- A funded qualification
You will generally not qualify for further NSFAS support.
5. Studies at Private Institutions
NSFAS does not fund any programmes offered by:
- Private universities
- Private TVET colleges
- Private nursing colleges
- Independent training providers
This applies even if:
- The institution is SAQA-accredited
- The qualification is recognised
- The course is in high demand
Only public institutions registered under the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) qualify for NSFAS funding.
6. Non-Approved or Non-Accredited Programmes
NSFAS will not fund:
- Programmes not registered with DHET
- Courses not aligned with institutional approval
- Qualifications outside approved funding lists
Even at public institutions, not every programme automatically qualifies. Students must ensure the qualification is eligible under NSFAS rules.
What NSFAS Focuses On Funding
To avoid confusion, it is important to understand what NSFAS does fund.
NSFAS primarily supports:
- Full-time undergraduate bachelor’s degrees
- National Diplomas
- National Certificates (Vocational – NCV)
- NATED (Report 191) programmes
These must be studied at:
- Public universities
- Public TVET colleges
The aim is to support first-time access to higher education and improve national skills outcomes.
Why NSFAS Has These Limitations
NSFAS funding exclusions exist because:
- The scheme operates within a fixed government budget
- Priority is given to first qualifications
- The focus is on reducing entry-level access barriers
- Postgraduate and private education require different funding models
Understanding these limits helps students plan realistic study paths and avoid financial risk.
What to Do If NSFAS Does Not Fund Your Course
If your chosen course is not covered by NSFAS, there are alternative funding options available.
1. Missing Middle Funding
For students from households earning above NSFAS thresholds but still unable to afford fees:
- NQF Level 8 Postgraduate Diplomas may qualify
- Funding is usually loan-based
2. Student Loans
Banks and specialised lenders such as Fundi offer:
- Undergraduate and postgraduate loans
- Flexible repayment options
- Institution-based payment structures
3. Institutional Bursaries
Many universities offer:
- Merit-based bursaries
- Faculty-specific funding
- Alumni or donor-funded programmes
These are often competitive and require strong academic performance.
4. SETA and Employer Funding
Some qualifications may qualify for:
- SETA bursaries
- Learnerships
- Employer-sponsored studies
These are usually linked to scarce skills and employment contracts.
Common Mistakes Students Make
- Applying for NSFAS for private colleges
- Choosing postgraduate studies expecting NSFAS funding
- Registering for part-time studies
- Enrolling in short courses assuming they qualify
- Attempting a second degree with NSFAS support
Avoiding these mistakes can save time, money, and missed academic years.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does NSFAS fund honours degrees?
No. Honours degrees are postgraduate qualifications and are not funded by NSFAS.
Does NSFAS fund short courses?
No. NSFAS only funds full qualifications, not short or skills-based courses.
Can NSFAS fund a second degree?
No. NSFAS funds one first undergraduate qualification only.
Does NSFAS fund private colleges?
No. NSFAS only funds public universities and public TVET colleges.
Are postgraduate diplomas funded by NSFAS?
Not under core NSFAS funding. Some NQF Level 8 diplomas may be considered under Missing Middle funding options.
Final Thoughts
Understanding which courses NSFAS does not fund is just as important as knowing which ones it does. NSFAS is designed to support first-time, full-time undergraduate studies at public institutions, and anything outside this scope requires alternative funding.
Before applying, students should always:
- Confirm the institution’s public status
- Verify the qualification level
- Understand NSFAS funding rules
Making informed choices early protects your academic future and ensures you pursue education with realistic financial planning in mind.