Will NSFAS Pay For Unisa Higher Certificate Courses? For many South African students, financial constraints are a significant barrier to accessing higher education. Fortunately, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) plays a crucial role in providing financial support to eligible students who wish to further their studies at public universities or TVET colleges. But a common question among prospective students is: Will NSFAS pay for UNISA Higher Certificate courses?
This article provides a detailed, guide to NSFAS funding for UNISA Higher Certificate programmes, including eligibility, allowances, and important conditions.
Understanding NSFAS and Its Role in Education
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government-funded bursary programme under the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET). Its main aim is to provide financial assistance to students from low-income households, ensuring that they can access and complete their tertiary education without the burden of tuition fees and study-related expenses.
NSFAS does not operate as a loan system for new beneficiaries—it is a bursary, meaning that if students meet academic requirements and follow the rules, they will not have to repay the funding.
Does NSFAS Fund UNISA Higher Certificate Courses?
Yes, NSFAS funds UNISA Higher Certificate courses. Students who meet the eligibility criteria and register for a full Higher Certificate programme at the University of South Africa (UNISA) are covered by NSFAS.
This is because NSFAS supports full qualifications at public universities, including:
- Higher Certificate programmes
- Diplomas
- Degrees
However, there are certain exclusions and exceptions that prospective students must understand before applying.
Who Qualifies for NSFAS Funding at UNISA?
To receive NSFAS funding for UNISA Higher Certificate programmes, students must meet specific requirements:
- Be a South African citizen or a permanent resident.
- Be registered or intending to register for an undergraduate qualification at UNISA (such as a Higher Certificate).
- Come from a household with a combined annual income of R350,000 or less (R600,000 or less for students with disabilities).
- Meet academic entry requirements for the chosen programme.
Who Does NOT Qualify for NSFAS Funding at UNISA?
NSFAS funding is not available for every type of course or student. You will not be funded if you:
- Have already completed an undergraduate degree or diploma.
- Are not a South African citizen or permanent resident.
- Require funding for short learning programmes or short learning certificates.
- Require funding for most postgraduate qualifications, except for specific listed programmes (explained below).
Postgraduate Qualifications Funded by NSFAS at UNISA
Although NSFAS generally does not fund postgraduate studies, there are exceptions for specific qualifications, including:
- BTech in Architecture / Architectural Technology
- BTech in Engineering (all disciplines), Cartography, Forestry
- BTech in Biokinetics, Biomedical Technology, Biotechnology
- BTech in Chiropractic, Homoeopathy, and all Nursing programmes
- BTech in Clinical or Dental Technology, Emergency Medical Care
- Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE)
- Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting
- LLB (Bachelor of Laws)
What Does NSFAS Cover for UNISA Higher Certificate Students?
NSFAS provides a comprehensive funding package for eligible UNISA students. This includes registration fees, tuition fees, learning material allowances, and in some cases, a living allowance.
1. Registration and Tuition Fees
NSFAS fully covers UNISA registration fees and tuition fees for funded students. This ensures that students do not have to make any upfront payments to start their studies.
2. Learning Material Allowance
UNISA students receive R600 per module for the first four modules they register for in a year.
If they register for five to ten modules, they receive a once-off R5,200 allowance for the year.
3. Living Allowance
Students registered for ten modules in a year may qualify for a living allowance, which helps cover daily expenses such as food, transport, and accommodation.
NSFAS Allowances for UNISA Students (2025)
| Type of Allowance | Details |
|---|---|
| Registration Fees | Fully covered by NSFAS |
| Tuition Fees | Fully covered by NSFAS |
| Learning Material | R600 per module (first 4 modules) |
| R5,200 once-off (5–10 modules) | |
| Living Allowance | Available for students registered for 10 modules |
Why NSFAS Funding for Higher Certificate Courses at UNISA is Important
Higher Certificate programmes at UNISA are often used as bridging qualifications for students who do not meet the entry requirements for a diploma or degree.
By funding these courses, NSFAS enables students to:
- Improve their academic qualifications.
- Gain access to diploma and degree programmes in the future.
- Acquire skills relevant to the job market.
- Study while balancing other commitments, as UNISA offers flexible distance learning.
Steps to Apply for NSFAS Funding for UNISA Higher Certificate Courses
If you want NSFAS to fund your Higher Certificate course at UNISA, follow these steps:
- Check your eligibility – Ensure you meet the financial and academic requirements.
- Create a myNSFAS account – Visit the official NSFAS website and register.
- Submit your application – Provide all required personal, academic, and financial information.
- Upload supporting documents, such as:
- Certified copy of your ID
- Proof of household income
- Academic transcripts or latest results
- Wait for feedback – NSFAS will inform you whether your application is successful.
Important Deadlines
- NSFAS applications usually open towards the end of the year for the following academic year.
- For example, for 2025 funding, applications may open in November 2025 and close in January 2026.
- Always check the official NSFAS and UNISA websites for updates.
FAQs About NSFAS Pay for UNISA Higher Certificate
Does NSFAS fund all Higher Certificate courses at UNISA?
Yes, NSFAS funds all Higher Certificate programmes at UNISA, as long as they are full qualifications and you meet the eligibility criteria.
Can I get NSFAS funding if I am doing only 4 modules at UNISA?
Yes, you will still receive a learning material allowance of R600 per module for the first four modules, but you will not qualify for the living allowance, which requires registration for ten modules.
Does NSFAS pay for short courses at UNISA?
No, NSFAS does not fund short learning programmes or short courses at UNISA. It only covers full qualifications such as Higher Certificates, Diplomas, and Degrees.
Conclusion
So, will NSFAS pay for UNISA Higher Certificate courses? Yes – if you meet the eligibility criteria and register for a full Higher Certificate programme, NSFAS will cover your registration, tuition fees, and allowances. This makes higher education more accessible, especially for students who plan to use Higher Certificates as a stepping stone to further qualifications.
