Many South African students rely on NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme) to cover tuition, accommodation, and other expenses. However, NSFAS funding may not always be enough to cover all your financial needs. If you’re looking for extra financial help, there are several other options available.
How to Get Extra Financial Help as a Student (Beyond NSFAS)
This guide explores additional ways to secure financial support as a student in South Africa.
1. Bursaries and Scholarships
Bursaries and scholarships are an excellent way to supplement NSFAS funding, as they do not require repayment. Many organizations, private companies, and government departments offer financial aid to deserving students.
Where to Find Bursaries and Scholarships:
- University Financial Aid Offices – Most universities have a list of available bursaries.
- Online Bursary Portals – Websites like SA Bursaries provide updated bursary listings.
- Private Companies – Many businesses, such as Sasol, Eskom, and Nedbank, offer bursaries for students in specific fields.
- Government Departments – Various sectors, including education, health, and engineering, have bursary programs.
Common Requirements for Bursaries:
- South African citizenship
- Strong academic performance
- Financial need
- Commitment to work for the bursary provider after graduation (for some bursaries)
2. Student Loans
If you need additional funding beyond NSFAS, student loans can help. These must be repaid, but many banks and financial institutions offer flexible repayment options.
Where to Get Student Loans:
- Bank Loans – Banks like Standard Bank, Absa, Nedbank, and FNB offer student loans with repayment options that begin after graduation.
- Eduloan (Fundi) – A financing option designed specifically for students to cover tuition and related expenses.
Key Considerations:
- Interest rates vary, so compare options.
- Some loans require a guarantor (parent/guardian).
- Loan repayment terms differ; some only start after graduation.
Recommended for you: Athlone Institute Bursary Project Fund (AIBPROF) South Africa 2025
3. Part-Time Jobs and Freelancing
Working part-time or freelancing can provide an additional income stream to help with living expenses and study materials.
Options for Students:
- On-Campus Jobs – Universities offer positions in libraries, admin offices, or student centers.
- Retail and Hospitality Work – Part-time jobs at stores, restaurants, or hotels.
- Tutoring – Offer tutoring services for high school or university subjects.
- Freelancing – Platforms like Fiverr and Upwork allow students to earn money in writing, graphic design, or virtual assistance.
4. Internships and Learnerships
Many companies offer paid internships and learnership programs that allow students to gain work experience while earning an income.
Where to Find Opportunities:
- University Career Centers – Most universities list available internships.
- Company Websites – Check directly with companies offering student programs.
- Job Portals – Sites like LinkedIn, Indeed, and PNET list internship opportunities.
5. Crowdfunding and Grants
If you are struggling financially, crowdfunding platforms and grant opportunities can provide relief.
Crowdfunding Options:
- BackaBuddy – A South African crowdfunding platform where students can raise funds.
- GoFundMe – A global crowdfunding site where students share their financial struggles and receive donations.
Grants:
- National Research Foundation (NRF) Grants – For postgraduate students pursuing research projects.
- Other NGO and Foundation Grants – Organizations such as the Motsepe Foundation provide educational grants.
6. Government Assistance Programs
Some government programs provide financial aid beyond NSFAS.
- Presidential Employment Stimulus – Offers job and learning opportunities.
- SETA Learnerships – Funded by the Skills Education Training Authorities (SETA), offering stipends to students gaining industry experience.
- Social Relief Grants – Temporary relief for financially struggling individuals, including students.
Read more: Do You Need a High APS Score to Qualify for NSFAS Funding?
- Plan Your Budget – Keep track of income and expenses to manage your funds wisely.
- Apply Early – Many financial aid options have strict deadlines.
- Explore Multiple Options – Combining bursaries, part-time work, and grants can help ease financial strain.
By exploring these funding sources beyond NSFAS, you can reduce financial stress and focus more on your studies. Stay proactive, apply early, and make use of available resources to support your academic journey.
