List of Colleges in Gauteng that Accept NSFAS 2026 – A Detailed Guide
For students in South Africa, the cost of tertiary education can often be a barrier to pursuing higher education. However, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) offers an essential lifeline by providing financial support to eligible students attending public universities, universities of technology, and TVET colleges. NSFAS helps students cover the cost of tuition, accommodation, transport, and other essential study-related expenses. If you are considering furthering your studies in Gauteng, you may want to know which colleges in the province accept NSFAS funding.
This article provides a detailed list of colleges in Gauteng that accept NSFAS applications for the 2026 academic year. We’ll also explore how the application process works, the criteria for eligibility, and the types of courses and programs covered by NSFAS funding.
What is NSFAS?
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a South African government initiative aimed at providing financial aid to students from disadvantaged backgrounds. NSFAS covers various costs associated with studying at public institutions, including tuition fees, accommodation, and other related expenses. It is available to students who meet specific academic and financial eligibility requirements, with the goal of making higher education more accessible.
NSFAS funding is typically available for students enrolled in accredited public universities, universities of technology, and TVET colleges across South Africa. The funding provided by NSFAS is a loan that is repayable once the student enters the workforce after completing their studies.
How NSFAS Funding Works
NSFAS funding is based on financial need, meaning that the scheme is designed to assist students from low-income households. Here’s an overview of how the funding works:
- Tuition Fees: NSFAS covers the full cost of tuition at eligible public institutions.
- Accommodation: NSFAS funding may also cover the cost of on-campus or off-campus accommodation, depending on the institution’s policies.
- Transport and Study Material: NSFAS may provide allowances for transport and study materials for students who qualify.
- Repayment: After graduation, students are required to repay the NSFAS loan, but the repayment terms are income-based, meaning that you only start repaying once you earn above a certain threshold.
Eligibility Criteria for NSFAS
To be eligible for NSFAS funding, students must meet the following criteria:
- South African Citizenship: Applicants must be South African citizens.
- Financial Need: The household income of the student must be below a certain threshold, which is determined by NSFAS (typically R350,000 per annum or less for students from households without a source of income).
- Academic Requirements: Students must be accepted to study at a public institution and meet the specific academic requirements for their chosen course or program.
- Study Program: The student must be enrolled in a program at a public university, university of technology, or TVET college that is registered and accredited by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET).
- Prior NSFAS Funding: Students who have previously been funded by NSFAS must have maintained the required academic standards.
Colleges in Gauteng That Accept NSFAS for 2026
Gauteng, as South Africa’s most populous and economically active province, is home to numerous colleges that accept NSFAS funding. Below is a list of prominent colleges in Gauteng that are part of the NSFAS scheme for the 2026 academic year.
1. University of the Witwatersrand (Wits University)
Type: Public University
Location: Braamfontein, Johannesburg
Courses Offered: Wits University offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in faculties such as humanities, commerce, law, engineering, health sciences, and science.
NSFAS Eligibility: Wits University is a registered institution that accepts NSFAS funding for eligible students. The university has a robust support system for NSFAS students, including assistance with accommodation and transport allowances.
2. University of Johannesburg (UJ)
Type: Public University
Location: Auckland Park, Johannesburg
Courses Offered: UJ offers a diverse range of programs in fields like education, business, engineering, arts, and health sciences.
NSFAS Eligibility: UJ participates in the NSFAS scheme, and students who meet the financial criteria can apply for funding. The university provides financial assistance for tuition fees, accommodation, and other study-related expenses.
3. Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
Type: University of Technology
Location: Pretoria
Courses Offered: TUT offers a wide array of programs in fields such as engineering, applied sciences, health sciences, and business.
NSFAS Eligibility: TUT accepts NSFAS funding for both undergraduate and postgraduate students. The university has a dedicated financial aid office that helps students with their applications and provides information on available funding options.
4. Gauteng City College
Type: Private, but NSFAS-Accredited for Specific Programs
Location: Pretoria
Courses Offered: Gauteng City College offers programs in business, hospitality, information technology, and education.
NSFAS Eligibility: While primarily a private college, Gauteng City College participates in the NSFAS scheme for students who are enrolled in specific accredited programs, particularly those in business and hospitality.
5. Central Johannesburg College (CJC)
Type: Public TVET College
Location: Various campuses in Johannesburg
Courses Offered: CJC offers a variety of vocational programs in fields like engineering, business studies, and information technology.
NSFAS Eligibility: As a public TVET college, CJC accepts NSFAS funding for students who meet the financial and academic requirements. Students can apply for funding for both tuition fees and other study-related expenses.
6. Ekurhuleni East College (EEC)
Type: Public TVET College
Location: Various campuses in the Ekurhuleni region
Courses Offered: EEC provides courses in engineering, business studies, and information technology, among others.
NSFAS Eligibility: EEC participates in the NSFAS funding scheme and provides financial aid for students who meet the necessary criteria.
7. Vega School (The Independent Institute of Education)
Type: Private College
Location: Multiple Gauteng campuses (Johannesburg, Pretoria)
Courses Offered: Vega School offers programs in creative fields like design, marketing, and communication.
NSFAS Eligibility: Vega is a private institution that allows eligible students to access NSFAS funding for specific accredited programs. The school offers financial aid for tuition and study materials.
8. Southern Business School (SBS)
Type: Private, but NSFAS-Accredited for Specific Programs
Location: Various campuses in Gauteng
Courses Offered: SBS offers business-oriented programs including degrees in management, human resources, and marketing.
NSFAS Eligibility: While Southern Business School is a private institution, it participates in the NSFAS scheme for students enrolled in specific programs.
9. Orbit TVET College
Type: Public TVET College
Location: Rustenburg and Brits (Serving Gauteng and North West Province)
Courses Offered: Orbit College offers vocational courses in fields such as hospitality, business, and engineering.
NSFAS Eligibility: Orbit College is a public TVET college that accepts NSFAS funding for students who meet the academic and financial requirements.
10. Mamelodi Campus of Tshwane South College
Type: Public TVET College
Location: Mamelodi, Pretoria
Courses Offered: The college provides programs in business studies, engineering, and information technology.
NSFAS Eligibility: Tshwane South College accepts NSFAS funding and helps students with applications for tuition, accommodation, and transport allowances.
How to Apply for NSFAS Funding
If you are interested in applying for NSFAS funding at any of the above colleges in Gauteng, here’s how to get started:
- Visit the NSFAS Website: regarding application dates and requirements.
- Register for an Account: To apply for NSFAS, you will need to create an account on the NSFAS website. You will need a valid email address and personal information.
- Submit Required Documents: You’ll be required to submit various documents such as:
- A certified copy of your ID
- Proof of your parent’s or guardian’s income
- Proof of residence
- Academic transcripts (if applicable)
- Bank account details
- Track Your Application: Once your application is submitted, you can track its progress through your NSFAS account. Be sure to monitor deadlines to ensure your application is processed in time.
NSFAS provides vital financial support to students in Gauteng, ensuring that education remains accessible to those who may not be able to afford tuition fees on their own. The colleges listed above are part of the NSFAS network for the 2026 academic year, allowing students to pursue their academic goals with financial assistance. Be sure to follow the application steps and meet the eligibility criteria to secure funding for your education.
For further details about how to apply or to get more information about specific programs at each college, visit the institutions’ official websites or contact their admissions departments.
