This blog will provide you with everything you need to know about the bursary options at Boland College, including how to apply, required documentation, and essential contact information.
What is a Boland College Bursary?
A bursary is a form of financial assistance that helps students cover the cost of tuition, accommodation, and other essential expenses related to their studies. At Boland College, bursaries are primarily available through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) and other external funding options, such as grants from Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs).
These bursaries aim to support students who have the potential to excel academically but lack the financial means to pursue their dreams.
Types of Bursaries Available at Boland College
Boland College offers the following types of bursaries to students:
- NSFAS Bursaries
- The primary source of financial aid for TVET college students.
- Covers tuition fees, accommodation, transportation, and other essential living expenses.
- Applications for the 2026 academic year are open from 28 September 2024 to 31 January 2026.
- External Funding from SETAs
- Boland College helps students apply for available funding from SETAs (Sector Education and Training Authorities) in South Africa.
- These opportunities are often based on industry needs and targeted at students pursuing specific career paths.
- Students are advised to visit their Financial Aid Office regularly for updates on SETA funding.
- Other Financial Options
- Students may also explore other private bursaries or scholarships outside of Boland College’s internal support system.
How to Apply for a Boland College Bursary (NSFAS)
If you’re planning to apply for a Boland College bursary via NSFAS, follow these steps to ensure a smooth application process.
Step 1: Create a MyNSFAS Account
- Visit the NSFAS website at www.nsfas.org.za.
- Click on “Create MyNSFAS Account”.
- Fill in your personal information, including your email and phone number.
- Submit and verify your details.
Step 2: Submit Your Application Online
- Log into your MyNSFAS account.
- Complete the online application form.
- Upload all the required documents (listed below).
- Review and submit your application.
Step 3: Track Your Application
- After submitting your application, you can log into your MyNSFAS account to track the progress of your bursary application.
- If you’re approved, you’ll need to submit an application for allowances (for transport, private accommodation, or living expenses) at the Boland College Financial Aid Office.
Required Documents for a Boland College Bursary Application
When applying for a bursary through NSFAS, you’ll need to provide the following documents:
- Copy of your ID or Birth Certificate.
- ID copies of parent(s), guardian(s), or spouse (if applicable).
- Both sides of a Smart ID card (if applicable).
- Proof of household income (payslips, grant receipts, etc.).
- Disability Annexure A form (for students with disabilities).
- Vulnerable Child Declaration form (if you’re recognized as a vulnerable child by the Department of Social Development).
- Declaration: Non-SASSA form (if you do not have certain family member details).
⚠️ Important Note: The system may generate additional requirements for you to upload, depending on the information you provide during your application. Double-check that all required documents are uploaded to avoid delays.
How Does NSFAS Support Boland College Students?
If you’re approved for an NSFAS bursary, you’ll receive financial support for the following:
- Tuition fees: Fully covered.
- Accommodation: Costs are covered if you’re staying in student accommodation or private housing.
- Transport: A monthly transport allowance is provided if you live off-campus.
- Living allowance: Covers your daily living expenses, including meals.
Once approved, students must visit the Boland College Financial Aid Office to submit their allowance applications.
When Are NSFAS Applications Open for Boland College Bursary 2026?
The NSFAS bursary applications for the 2026 academic year are open from 28 September 2024 to 31 January 2026. It is crucial to apply as early as possible to avoid delays and secure your funding on time.
How Boland College Supports Students with External Funding
Apart from NSFAS, Boland College offers guidance to students seeking external funding from SETAs. These bursaries may have different eligibility criteria, so it’s essential to stay in touch with the Financial Aid Office.
Boland College encourages students to apply for SETA funding in fields aligned with South Africa’s skills shortage areas, increasing their chances of receiving financial support.
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Complete Guide to NSFAS Online Loan Application for South African Students (2025)
If you are a South African student looking to pursue higher education but are facing financial difficulties, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is one of the most accessible funding options available. NSFAS provides financial aid in the form of bursaries and loans to qualifying students at public universities and TVET colleges in South Africa.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the NSFAS loan application process, from eligibility requirements to application steps and frequently asked questions.
📌 What is NSFAS?
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government-funded financial aid scheme aimed at helping students from low- and middle-income households to access tertiary education without the burden of upfront fees.
NSFAS offers both bursaries and income-contingent loans:
- Bursaries: For eligible students who meet academic and household income criteria (especially for TVET and university students).
- Loans: For students who do not meet all bursary criteria or who are pursuing postgraduate qualifications not funded under bursary schemes.
✅ Who Qualifies for an NSFAS Loan?
To qualify for an NSFAS loan (especially for postgraduate students or programs not funded under the bursary system), you must:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Be financially needy, with a household income of less than R350,000 per year.
- Have a valid South African ID.
- Be enrolled or accepted to study at a public university or TVET college.
- Not be funded through another bursary program that covers all expenses.
- Maintain satisfactory academic progress (returning students).
📚 Courses Funded by NSFAS
NSFAS primarily funds undergraduate qualifications, but certain postgraduate programs (e.g., PGCE, postgraduate diplomas in education, and professional courses like LLB) may be considered under the NSFAS loan scheme, not bursaries.
If you’re studying:
- Undergraduate degree or diploma: You are likely eligible for a full NSFAS bursary.
- Postgraduate study: You may qualify for a loan, depending on the course and funding availability.
📄 Required Documents for NSFAS Application
When applying, make sure you have the following documents scanned and ready:
- Certified copy of your South African ID or Smart Card.
- Parent(s) or guardian(s) ID documents.
- Proof of income (latest payslips, UIF, or affidavit if unemployed).
- Consent Form signed by your parent(s)/guardian(s) to allow NSFAS to verify income.
- Proof of registration or acceptance at a public institution.
- Academic transcripts (for continuing or postgraduate students).
🖥️ How to Apply for an NSFAS Loan Online
Step-by-Step NSFAS Online Application Process (2025)
-
Visit the NSFAS Website
Go to: https://www.nsfas.org.za
-
Create an Account
- Click on “MyNSFAS” and register your profile.
- You’ll need a valid email address and South African cellphone number.
- Choose a strong password and verify your account via email or SMS.
-
Login and Start the Application
- After registration, log in to your MyNSFAS account.
- Click on “Apply” to begin a new application.
-
Fill in Your Personal Details
- Input your ID number, name, surname, and other details exactly as they appear on your ID.
- Provide household income information and living arrangements.
-
Upload Required Documents
- Upload all supporting documents in PDF or JPEG format.
- Each document must be clear and under the size limit specified.
-
Submit Your Application
- Review your application for accuracy.
- Click “Submit” and wait for a confirmation message.
-
Track Your Application
- Log in regularly to check your application status.
- You will be notified via SMS and email at each stage of the process.
🗓️ Important NSFAS Dates (2025)
- Application Opening Date: September 1, 2025
- Application Deadline: January 31, 2026
- Appeals Period: February 2026 (if rejected)
- Disbursement: After registration and approval
Note: Dates are subject to change; always confirm on the official NSFAS website.
💸 What Does the NSFAS Loan Cover?
NSFAS funding typically includes:
- Tuition fees
- Registration fees
- Accommodation (if living away from home)
- Meals and transport
- Learning materials (e.g., textbooks)
For loans, repayment is only required once you start working and earn above a threshold (around R30,000 annually, but subject to change).
🔄 NSFAS Loan Repayment
Repayments are:
- Income-contingent – you only repay when you can afford to.
- Administered by DHET (Department of Higher Education and Training).
- Interest-bearing, but interest rates are low and favorable.
You can also apply for a partial loan conversion to a bursary if you perform well academically.
🔁 How to Appeal a Rejected NSFAS Application
If your application is rejected, you may submit an appeal via your MyNSFAS portal:
- Log into your MyNSFAS account.
- Click on “Track Funding Progress”.
- If rejected, click on “Submit Appeal”.
- Upload any missing or corrected documents.
- Provide a clear explanation or motivation.
📱 NSFAS Contact Information
- Website: https://www.nsfas.org.za
- Email: info@nsfas.org.za
- Toll-Free Number: 08000 67327 (Monday–Friday, 8 AM–5 PM)
- Twitter: @myNSFAS
- Facebook: NSFAS
📝 Final Tips Before Applying
- Apply early to avoid system overload near the deadline.
- Use your own email and cellphone number (do not use someone else’s).
- Double-check that all your documents are certified and legible.
- Keep a copy of your submission confirmation for reference.
By following this guide, you can confidently apply for NSFAS funding and move one step closer to achieving your academic and career dreams—without the burden of immediate financial pressure.