University of Cape Town UCT NSFAS and Student Loans 2025 – 2026
University of Cape Town UCT and NSFAS Financial Assistance – see details below:
NSFAS & UCT Financial Assistance
As of 1 August 2016, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) opened its student-centred application model. First-time applications for financial aid, as well as funding renewal for those students who are already recipients of NSFAS funding, will be handled centrally via NSFAS. Although applicants may have applied to multiple institutions for admission to study, only one financial aid application directly to NSFAS will be required. The student who is interested in Student Loans can Apply Here
In December 2017, the President announced an increase in the NSFAS financial eligibility criteria for first-time entering students (FTENS) effective from 2018. The gross income cut-off is R350 000 gross family income pa. The financial eligibility for current students remains unchanged. The funding provision from NSFAS changes from a loan to a grant effective 2018.
UCT will co-fund and be part of this new student-centred application model and all students and learners who need financial assistance should apply to NSFAS through the NSFAS Online Application system.
UCT has additional funding programmes to assist students. UCT co-funds NSFAS financial aid students and also offers a funding programme – GAP funding – for those not eligible for NSFAS. We do not require a separate application to determine eligibility for funding from UCT as we will receive directly from NSFAS the information we require in order to determine your eligibility for UCT funding programmes. Kindly read the detailed information provided on all UCT’s financial assistance programmes and the general rules and policies that apply (see columns on the left).
The process for the various NSFAS categories of application is outlined below:
For all first-year applicants
All learners (potential first-year students) applying to study next year are required to apply directly to NSFAS. Applications normally open from 1 August annually.
For all currently registered students (at any institution) already funded by NSFAS
Academic eligibility renewal criteria will be applied to check eligibility for renewal, and you will be informed of whether you still meet the requirements for funding.
For currently registered students intending to apply for NSFAS funding for the first time
Students not currently funded by NSFAS, or who are on a government-funded bursary programme, may apply for funding. For students in this category, applications normally open on 1 August annually. If you think that your current funder may not renew your funding, you are encouraged to submit an NSFAS application before the closing date.
Late applications
Applications will not be accepted after the closing date and it is therefore important that you get your application in on time. Late applications will not be considered.
How and where to apply
Go to the NSFAS website to register and proceed to complete your online application:
- NSFAS Online Application: http://www. https://zabusaries.com/content/how-to-apply.html
- Read full information about the NSFAS bursary scheme.
The NSFAS contact details are outlined below should you require assistance, or visit your closest tertiary institution’s Financial Aid Office for further assistance.
Share Call Number: 0860 0067 327
Email: Info@NSFAS.org.za
We encourage applicants to print a copy of their NSFAS online application and keep a record of all supporting documents, in case they are required later. Also, check your email account regularly for correspondence from NSFAS and UCT.
NB. All applicants that apply online to NSFAS must make sure that they receive an application reference number after the application is submitted. Your application has not been submitted successfully if you do not receive an application reference number.
