NSFAS Bursary for Students with Disabilities – What Extra Support You Can Get

Accessing higher education can be challenging when you have a disability. Financial barriers, assistive technology needs, and accessible learning environments all add complexity. The NSFAS Bursary for Disabled Students steps in to address these challenges. It doesn’t just fund tuition; it offers special needs support and promotes inclusive education so students with disabilities can participate fully in academic life.

NSFAS Bursary for Students with Disabilities

What is the NSFAS Bursary for Disabled Students?

The NSFAS Bursary for Disabled Students is a targeted funding scheme provided by the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) in South Africa. It focuses on supporting students with permanent disabilities who are enrolled in public universities or TVET colleges. This bursary aims to break down both financial and accessibility barriers, ensuring equitable access to inclusive education.

The bursary not only pays for your core academic expenses but also finances the resources and services required to accommodate your disability in the learning environment.

What Extra Support Can You Get?

Core Financial Support

Students who qualify receive full coverage for these standard expenses:

• Tuition fees (up to the actual cost)

• Registration fees

• Accommodation or transport allowances (depending on living situation)

• Learning materials (textbooks, devices)

Additional Special Needs Support

Beyond typical funding, the bursary extends special needs support to address disability-specific requirements:

• Assistive Devices: Laptops with screen readers, braille equipment, hearing aids, wheelchairs, ergonomic chairs, and other customized tools essential for study.

• Human Support Services: Sign language interpreters, scribes, note-takers, personal care assistants, and specialized tutors where necessary.

• Transport and Mobility Support: Subsidies for accessible transport if regular transport options are unsuitable due to the disability.

• Medical Assessments: If required, the bursary covers costs for medical evaluations to confirm disability and guide the accommodation plan.

This comprehensive funding helps ensure that a student’s disability does not limit academic performance or participation.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the NSFAS Bursary for Disabled Students, you must meet these requirements:

• Be a South African citizen.

• Have a permanent disability (temporary disabilities are not eligible).

• Provide certified medical proof of disability.

• Be accepted to study at a public university or TVET college.

• Demonstrate financial need (NSFAS means test still applies, but more flexibility is given).

How to Apply

Applications are submitted online via the NSFAS official website. You will need to upload:

• A certified copy of your ID.

• Proof of income (your own and household, if applicable).

• Medical proof of disability (doctor’s letter or formal diagnosis).

• Quotations for assistive devices or human support services (if requesting extra support).

Applications typically open towards the end of each year for the following academic period.

Why Inclusive Education Matters

The goal of the bursary goes beyond financial aid — it is built on the principle of inclusive education. This means creating an academic environment where all students, regardless of ability, can learn together with equitable access to facilities, teaching, and social activities.

By covering both academic costs and disability-related support, the bursary empowers students to succeed on equal terms.

Key Benefits at a Glance

• Full funding for study-related costs

• Access to assistive technologies and human support

• Improved academic participation and independence

• Less financial strain on families of students with disabilities

Challenges to Be Aware Of

• The application process requires detailed documentation, which can take time to prepare.

• You must submit annual reports and proof of academic progress to maintain funding.

• The bursary is for permanent disabilities only — temporary impairments do not qualify.

FAQ

Who qualifies as having a “permanent disability”?

A permanent disability is one that has been medically verified as lasting longer than a year and is unlikely to improve. Examples include visual impairment, hearing loss, mobility impairments, and certain chronic neurological conditions.

Does NSFAS pay for private care or equipment suppliers?

No. All services and equipment funded must come from accredited suppliers and must relate directly to your academic needs. You will need to submit quotes from suppliers before funding is approved.

Can I apply for this bursary if I already receive other disability grants?

Yes. You can apply even if you receive social grants or disability grants, but NSFAS will assess your household income and overall need when processing your application.

Is the bursary renewable each year?

Yes. You must reapply annually and provide updated proof of academic progress and disability-related needs.

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