Bursary vs NSFAS: what is the difference?
Many students use the words bursary and NSFAS as if they mean the same thing, but they are not exactly the same.
Both can help students pay for their studies, but they work in different ways and may have different rules, requirements, and funding structures.
What is NSFAS?
NSFAS stands for the National Student Financial Aid Scheme.
It is a South African government funding scheme that helps qualifying students who want to study at:
- public universities
- public TVET colleges
NSFAS has its own application process, rules, and funding conditions.
What is a bursary?
A bursary is a form of financial support offered by an organisation to help a student pay for education.
Bursaries may be offered by:
- government departments
- private companies
- banks
- foundations
- SETAs
- universities
- trusts and NGOs
Unlike NSFAS, bursaries do not come from one single national system. Each bursary provider decides its own requirements and application process.
Main difference between bursaries and NSFAS
The simplest difference is this:
- NSFAS is one national student funding scheme
- Bursaries are different funding opportunities offered by many different organisations
This means NSFAS is one specific funding route, while bursaries are a broader category.
Who can apply for NSFAS?
NSFAS usually supports students who meet the eligibility rules for public higher education funding in South Africa.
This often includes factors such as:
- household income rules
- citizenship or permanent residency requirements
- study at a public university or TVET college
- meeting academic progression rules where relevant
Who can apply for bursaries?
That depends on the bursary.
Different bursaries may look at:
- matric results
- field of study
- financial need
- province
- community background
- university acceptance
- current year of study
- career interest
- work-back obligations after graduation
Some bursaries are very broad, while others are highly specific.
Can you apply for both?
In many cases, yes.
A student may apply for NSFAS and also apply for bursaries, depending on the rules of each funding option.
However, students should always read the terms carefully because:
- some funding types may affect each other
- some providers may ask whether you already receive funding
- some bursary programmes may have their own restrictions
Which one is better?
There is no single answer.
NSFAS may be the better option if:
- you qualify under its funding rules
- you are studying at a public institution
- you need support under the national funding system
A bursary may be a strong option if:
- you meet the requirements of a specific bursary provider
- your field of study is supported by an organisation
- you are looking for funding beyond NSFAS
- you want to apply to multiple opportunities
For many students, the smartest approach is to understand both.
Final advice
NSFAS and bursaries both exist to help students access education, but they are not the same thing.
The best thing to do is:
- understand what NSFAS is
- look for bursaries that match your situation
- read requirements carefully
- apply early
- keep your documents ready
If you need more help, also read our guides on how to apply for bursaries, who qualifies for NSFAS, and what NSFAS covers.