NSFAS News

NSFAS Resolves Qualification Code Issue Impacting TVET Students

Published

3 weeks ago

May 2, 2025

NSFAS Resolves Qualification Code Issue Impacting TVET Students. The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has recently addressed a significant concern affecting Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college students: the qualification code error. This issue had led to funding delays and uncertainties for many students. With the resolution in place, it’s essential to understand the implications and the broader context of NSFAS funding for TVET students in South Africa.

Qualification Code Error

The qualification code error emerged when discrepancies between the qualifications students enrolled in and the codes recognized by NSFAS led to funding application rejections. This mismatch caused significant distress among students, as many were left without financial support despite meeting other eligibility criteria.

NSFAS, in collaboration with the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and TVET institutions, has now rectified this issue. Institutions have been instructed to ensure that all qualification codes are accurately captured and aligned with NSFAS systems, thereby preventing future occurrences of this problem.

N+ Rule and Its Application to TVET Colleges

A critical aspect of NSFAS funding is the N+ Rule, which determines the duration for which a student can receive financial aid.

N: Represents the minimum number of years required to complete a qualification.
+1: Allows for an additional year to accommodate unforeseen challenges that might delay studies.

For TVET students, the N+1 rule implies that if a program is designed to be completed in three years, NSFAS will fund the student for up to four years. This policy ensures that students facing academic or personal challenges have a buffer period to complete their studies without losing financial support.

Academic Progression and Funding Eligibility

NSFAS has outlined specific academic progression pathways to ensure that students advance in their studies while remaining eligible for funding.

TVET College Progression: Students can progress from a Pre-Learning Programme (PLP) to a Report 191 Level 1 or NC(V) Level 2 qualification. Switching between NC(V) and Report 191 programs or changing programs within them can affect funding eligibility.
University Progression: NSFAS will fund progression from a certificate qualification to an undergraduate qualification, applicable only to a student’s first certificate or undergraduate qualification.

Understanding these pathways is crucial for students to plan their academic careers effectively and maintain their funding eligibility.

Direct Payment of Allowances to TVET Students

In response to concerns about delays and non-payment of allowances, NSFAS has implemented a new mechanism to pay TVET students directly into their bank accounts. This change aims to streamline the payment process and ensure that students receive their allowances promptly. Students are encouraged to open bank accounts and update their details with NSFAS to facilitate this direct payment system.

Addressing Disparities Between TVET and University Students

NSFAS has recognized the disparities between TVET college and university student bursary packages and has introduced policy changes to address these differences.

Accommodation Allowances: TVET College managed and leased self-catered accommodation and private off-campus accredited accommodation are capped at R50,000 in metros and R41,000 in other areas.
Living Allowances: In 2024, the living allowance for TVET students is R10,000 per annum, distributed monthly.

These measures aim to progressively close the gap between TVET College and university students, ensuring equitable financial support across the board.

Collaborative Efforts to Verify Student Eligibility

NSFAS collaborates with government agencies such as the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), South African Revenue Service (SARS), and the Department of Home Affairs to ensure that only eligible students receive funding. This collaboration helps verify student information and addresses issues like hybrid applications and missing parental relationships.

Conclusion

The resolution of the qualification code error marks a significant step forward in NSFAS’s commitment to supporting TVET students in South Africa. By understanding the N+ Rule, adhering to approved academic pathways, and staying informed about policy changes, students can navigate the NSFAS system more effectively. Continued collaboration between NSFAS, educational institutions, and government agencies will further enhance the efficiency and fairness of the financial aid system, ensuring that deserving students receive the support they need to succeed.