NSFAS provides more than financial assistance to thousands of South Africans. It is a lifeline for them in achieving their academic and career goals. NSFAS tightened the academic pass rate requirements to 2025 in order to ensure that students make meaningful progress.
Students and educators have been discussing the updated criteria, and many are wondering what impact these changes will have on their ability to remain funded and stay on track for graduation. What you need to do to ensure your funding and learn about the updated criteria.
What Are The New Pass Rate Requirements?
For University Students
Students receiving NSFAS funds in 2025 will be required to pass 60% or more of their modules before the end of 2024. The requirement has increased from 50% to 60%, which means students will have to be more deliberate about their studies in order to maintain funding.
The revised pass rate encourages accountability and academic commitment. “We want students to graduate on time and succeed,” said Dr. Blade Nzimande, Minister for Higher Education, Science, and Innovation.
For TVET College students
The academic standards for students at Technical and Vocational Education and Training Colleges (TVET colleges) vary depending on the type of programme they are enrolled in:
- National Certificate Vocational [NC(V)] Programmes: To progress and continue receiving NSFAS funds, you must pass five subjects for each level.
- Report 191 Programmes (NATED): To remain eligible for funding, you must pass at least three subjects per semester.
The updated criteria are designed to help students achieve their qualification in a reasonable amount of time while making the best use of the financial assistance they receive.
Why Has NSFAS Made These Changes?
The tighter academic criteria are a result of concerns over long study periods, high dropout rate and budget restrictions. NSFAS wants its funds to support students who are actively working toward graduation rather than those who might be failing or changing classes without a clearly defined academic plan.
A study by Higher Education South Africa (HESA) found that inefficient use of financial aid has led to bottlenecks in the system, limiting the number of new students who can benefit from NSFAS each year.
What Do Students Think?
Students’ reactions have been mixed. Students have mixed reactions to the changes. Some think they will make them work harder. Others worry about the added pressure.
Thando, a law student in her second year at Wits University shared some of her thoughts.
I understand the reasoning behind NSFAS’s decision, but it will be difficult for students who work part-time. If they want us to meet the new requirements .”, universities need to provide more academic support.
How Can Students Maintain Their NSFAS Funding?
Here’s how to stay eligible for NSFAS funding if you depend on it:
1. Keep up with your coursework
- Attend lectures and participate in discussions.
- Prepare for the exam early and complete all assignments on time.
2. Use Academic Support Services
- Many universities and TVET colleges offer tutoring, writing centers, and study groups.
- Ask for help when you need it.
3. Manage your time effectively
- Make sure to include time for rest and revision in your study schedule.
- Work, family, and social commitments should be balanced.
4. Seek guidance early
- Speak to your academic advisor if you are struggling to achieve the required pass percentage.
- NSFAS offers support and counseling services to students who are experiencing academic stress.
It may seem like a daunting task to meet the NSFAS 2025 requirements, but ultimately, they are designed to help students remain focused, graduate on time, and maximize their funding. You can achieve these new standards by being proactive and utilizing the available support services.
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