13 Common Reasons Why NSFAS Applications Get Rejected (And How to Avoid Them)
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) provides crucial funding for South African students who cannot afford higher education, or students from poor financial support. However, each year, thousands of applications are applying and some applications rejected due to common mistakes or missing information. Knowing the reasons in advance can save you time, stress, and lost opportunities.
In this article, we break down 13 common reasons why NSFAS applications get rejected with real-life examples and practical tips to help you avoid them.
Why Understanding NSFAS Application Rejections Matters
Getting your NSFAS application rejected doesn’t just delay your studies—it can also affect your funding for future years. By understanding common pitfalls, you can submit a strong application the first time and avoid unnecessary delays.
13 Common Reasons NSFAS Applications Are Rejected (With Examples)
1. Missing or Incorrect Personal Information
Incomplete personal details such as wrong ID numbers, addresses, or contact information can cause NSFAS to reject your application.
Example: Lerato submitted her application but mistakenly entered “123456789012” instead of her actual ID number. NSFAS rejected her application because her ID did not match official records.
Tip: Double-check your personal details and ensure they match your official South African ID document.
2. Household Income Exceeds Threshold
NSFAS funding is for students from low-income households. If your family earns more than the set threshold, your application may be declined.
Example: Sipho applied for NSFAS but his parents’ combined income was R500,000 per year, exceeding the R350,000 household threshold. His application was automatically rejected.
Tip: Verify your household income and submit accurate proof of earnings, such as payslips or affidavits.
3. Incomplete Supporting Documents
Applications often fail when required documents like ID copies, proof of income, or proof of residence are missing.
Example: Thandi forgot to attach a proof of residence, so her application could not be processed.
Tip: Use the NSFAS checklist to ensure every document is included and correctly formatted.
4. Submitting Late Applications
NSFAS has strict deadlines, and late applications are automatically rejected.
Example: John submitted his application two weeks after the closing date and was rejected without review.
Tip: Submit your application early and regularly check deadlines on the NSFAS website.
5. Duplicate Applications
Submitting more than one application using different emails or ID numbers can cause rejection.
Example: Zanele submitted two applications using different email addresses. NSFAS rejected both, citing duplication.
Tip: Only submit one application per student using your official ID number and email.
6. Incorrect Institution or Course Selection
Choosing a course or institution not accredited by NSFAS can lead to rejection.
Example: Thabo applied for funding to study a private, unaccredited college. NSFAS rejected his application because the institution was not recognized.
Tip: Confirm your course and institution are NSFAS-accredited before applying.
7. Failing to Meet Academic Requirements
Returning students must meet minimum academic progress requirements to retain funding.
Example: Amanda failed two modules in first year. Her second-year NSFAS application was rejected because she did not meet the academic requirements.
Tip: Maintain required pass rates and complete modules on time to remain eligible.
8. Using an Unofficial Email Address
Applications sent from someone else’s email account may be flagged and rejected.
Example: Kgosi used his friend’s email to submit the application. NSFAS could not verify his identity and rejected the application.
Tip: Always use a personal, active email address linked to your ID.
9. Invalid or Expired Supporting Documents
Outdated or improperly certified documents can cause rejection.
Example: Nonhlanhla submitted an old utility bill from 2020 as proof of residence. NSFAS rejected it because it was no longer valid.
Tip: Ensure all documents are current, certified, and correctly signed if needed.
10. Not Updating Personal Details
Students who change contact information without updating NSFAS records risk rejection or delays.
Example: Musa moved houses but did not update his address. NSFAS sent critical verification emails to his old address, and his application could not be processed.
Tip: Keep your phone number, email, and banking details updated at all times.
11. Applying While Already Funded
If you are already receiving NSFAS funding, submitting a new application for the same year may result in rejection.
Example: Lebo was already fully funded for her first-year studies but applied again in the same year. NSFAS rejected the new application.
Tip: Only submit if you are not currently funded or applying for a new qualification.
12. Proof of Citizenship Issues
NSFAS funding is only for South African citizens. Applications from permanent residents or foreigners are declined.
Example: Omar applied using his permanent residency permit. NSFAS rejected the application as it is reserved for South African citizens.
Tip: Use a valid South African ID document and avoid temporary or foreign permits.
13. Bank Account Errors
Incorrect, inactive, or closed bank accounts can cause payments to fail, which can appear as an application rejection.
Example: Fatima entered her old bank account number. NSFAS could not deposit funds, delaying her application approval.
Tip: Provide accurate, active banking details capable of receiving electronic payments.
How to Avoid NSFAS Application Rejections
- Prepare all required documents ahead of time
- Submit your application well before the deadline
- Double-check personal and financial information for accuracy
- Confirm course and institution accreditation
- Maintain academic performance for continued funding
Useful NSFAS Resources
- NSFAS Official Website
- South African Government Portal
- How to Appeal NSFAS Decisions
- Join Wikihii NSFAS WhatsApp Channel
Conclusion
Understanding these 13 common reasons for NSFAS rejection—and learning from real-life examples—can greatly increase your chances of approval. By submitting a complete, accurate, and timely application, you save yourself time, stress, and disappointment. Always follow official NSFAS guidelines and keep updated through verified channels.
For more tips on NSFAS applications, allowances, and student funding, visit Wikihii.
Read Also this post: Top 11 NSFAS Benefits Every Student Should Know About
