The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), a beacon of hope for many aspiring South African students, is an initiative managed by the South African government within the Department of Higher Education (DHET). Renowned as the DHET bursary but popularly referred to as the NSFAS bursary, it encompasses much more than mere tuition fees, having transformed countless lives since its establishment.
But a pressing question emerges: Does NSFAS cater to postgraduate courses?
Historically, NSFAS had a list of postgraduate courses it funded, including but not limited to:
- B Tech specializations such as Architecture, Biomedical Technology, Engineering branches like Mechanical, Chemical, and Civil, among others.
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
- Postgraduate Certificate in Education
- Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting
Moreover, for those seeking a second professional qualification mandatory for specific employment avenues, NSFAS offered its financial hand.
A Shift in NSFAS’ Approach to Postgraduate Funding
However, a significant change arose in 2021. NSFAS declared its decision to cease funding for all postgraduate courses, be it postgraduate certificates, diplomas, honours, masters, or even PhD degrees.
Consequently, NSFAS directed postgraduate aspirants towards the National Research Foundation (NRF). Recognized for endorsing research and bolstering postgraduate research training essential for South Africa’s progress, NRF propels research across diverse domains, from humanities and natural sciences to engineering and indigenous knowledge.
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