Can NSFAS fund Varsity College?

Deciding where to study after matric is a major decision, and finances often play a decisive role. Many South African students ask whether NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme) can fund studies at private institutions such as Varsity College. Understanding this question is crucial before applying or accepting an offer.

 This post breaks down the facts and explores workable alternatives.

What is NSFAS?

Established under the NSFAS Act of 1999 and overseen by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), NSFAS is a government financial aid scheme offering bursaries and loans to eligible students pursuing tertiary education. It predominantly funds full-time undergraduate studies at public universities and TVET colleges, covering tuition, registration, accommodation, meals, transport, and learning materials.

Which Institutions Receive NSFAS Funding?

NSFAS covers fees and allowances for:

All 26 public universities in South Africa

Fifty TVET colleges offering NATED and NCV programmes

PLEASE NOTE: NSFAS does not fund Varsity College.

Why Aren’t Private Institutions Covered?

The South African Constitution (Section 29(1)(b)) obliges the state to make higher education progressively available and accessible, which NSFAS implements by partnering with public institutions. Private institutions do not come under NSFAS’s mandate, which focuses on equitable access through state-funded bodies.

Thus, even under its means-based criteria, NSFAS cannot fund study at a private place like Varsity College.

Can a Varsity College Student Still Benefit from NSFAS?

The short answer: No. If you are enrolled at Varsity College, you do not qualify for NSFAS funding for any part of your study—tuition, allowances, or otherwise 

What Are the Funding Alternatives?

1. Varsity College Bursaries & Scholarships

Varsity College offers several internal awards:

• Academic Merit Awards: Based on strong Grade 12 performance
• Leadership and Engagement Bursaries: For prefects or committee participants
• Sporting Bursaries: For high-level athletic achievement
• Teacher Education Scholarships
• Loyalty Awards: For returning students or those with alumni connections
• Campus-specific bursaries

2. External Bursaries & Loans

• Private bursaries/scholarships: Many corporates and foundations offer field-specific awards.
• Education loans: Specialist lenders like Fundi or mainstream bank loans (Standard Bank, Absa, Nedbank) can bridge gaps 
• SETA funding: Industry-specific skills funding for vocational qualifications.
• Crowdfunding: Platforms like BackaBuddy or GoFundMe allow students to appeal directly to the public.
• Employer sponsorship: Aligning your course with employer needs may unlock sponsorship.

What If You Switch to a Public Institution?

Should you choose to study a similar qualification at a public university or TVET college, you could gain eligibility for NSFAS, provided you:

• Are a South African citizen/permanent resident
• Earn ≤ R350,000 annually (or up to R600,000 with a disability)
• Register for a full-time undergrad course at a public institution

Summary Table

Final Takeaway

NSFAS does not fund studies at private institutions, including Varsity College. Although private-college students miss out on NSFAS subsidies, they still have avenues through institutional bursaries and private funding. For those prioritizing government aid, enrolling in a public university or TVET programme is the only way to gain NSFAS support.

Before committing to Varsity College, explore all financial options—including comparisons with public alternatives—to ensure the decision aligns with both your education goals and your financial reality.