Can I Receive A SASSA Grant and NSFAS at the same time?
Can I have my cake and eat it too? That’s essentially what you’re asking when you inquire, Can I Receive A SASSA Grant and NSFAS at the same time? It’s a question that many South African students grapple with as they strive to finance their education while also supporting themselves or their families.
This article will explore various scenarios providing clarity on whether one can simultaneously benefit from both aids or if it’s a case of ‘either-or’. So without any further ado, let’s get to the main topic.
Can I Receive A SASSA Grant and NSFAS at the same time?
The eligibility for NSFAS funding depends on the specific type of SASSA grant an individual receives. If you are a recipient of the SRD grant, unfortunately, NSFAS qualification is not possible. However, for those benefiting from grants such as the Child Support Grant, Disability Grant, Care Dependency Grant, or Foster Child Grant, there is potential eligibility for NSFAS.
A crucial point to note is the exclusivity clause that prohibits individuals from concurrently receiving funding from both NSFAS and the SRD R350 grant. However, if one is receiving any SASSA grants besides the R350 grant, they automatically become eligible for NSFAS assistance.
Does Receiving the SASSA SRD Grant Affect NSFAS Eligibility?
If you receive the R350 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) grant and are considering applying for NSFAS, you may be curious about how these two forms of financial assistance interact. In simple terms, you can still apply for NSFAS even if you currently receive the SRD grant. However, it’s important to note that upon approval for NSFAS, your eligibility for the R350 grant will cease.
This is because NSFAS is itself a form of grant, and the R350 grant is intended for individuals without other grants or UIF funds. Nevertheless, if you are a current recipient of the R350 grant, you are still eligible to apply for an NSFAS bursary. Your application can be successful if you meet the necessary requirements outlined by NSFAS.
It’s essential to be aware that the R350 grant payments will cease during SASSA’s monthly reviews. Your SASSA grant status check will indicate a decline, signaling that NSFAS registration has taken place. Additionally, it’s important to note that simultaneous receipt of NSFAS funding and R350 grant payments is not permitted.
NSFAS Allocation to SASSA Recipients
NSFAS, in a statement on their Twitter page, revealed that 49% of the 2023 NSFAS budget, amounting to R47.6 billion, was allocated to SASSA recipients based on financial eligibility. Within this budget, R38.6 billion was earmarked for students attending universities, and an additional R8.9 billion was allocated to students attending TVET colleges.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the landscape of coexisting SASSA grants and NSFAS funding involves a nuanced understanding of grant types and their respective eligibility criteria. While SRD grant recipients face limitations in NSFAS eligibility, other SASSA grants present viable pathways to accessing additional financial support for tertiary education.
Prospective applicants are strongly encouraged to engage in a meticulous review of the specific entry requirements for NSFAS and other grants, enabling informed decisions and maximizing opportunities for financial assistance in pursuit of higher education.
