​Qaqambile Mdledle
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has officially opened the 2022 application cycle.
Applications are open for all pupils and out-of-school youth from poor and working-class backgrounds who want to study at South African universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges.
The applications process is also open to students who are already enrolled at institutions but are without funding and qualify for NSFAS financial funding. 
Higher Education, Science and Innovation Minister Blade Nzimande says NSFAS has put in place a communications plan and partnered with institutions of higher learning and training, the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) and other relevant structures to ensure that all eligible students are reached.
"Funding set aside for NSFAS has more than doubled between 2018 and 2021 and has widened its reach to offer financial support for prospective TVET and university students," he said. 
Nzimande further urged students who meet the requirements to sign outstanding NSFAS bursary agreements to ensure that the continuation of funding for next year proceeds smoothly.
"NSFAS Online portal is available for students to update their details immediately. All institutions of higher education and training will be capacitated to assist with NSFAS applications," said Minister Nzimande.
To qualify for NSFAS funding one must be:
South African citizens or permanent residents who plan on registering or already studying at a public university TVET college.
SASSA grant recipients.
Living with disabilities with a combined household income of not more than R600 000 per year.
Whose combined household income is not more than R350 000 per year.
Applicants can register online via a smartphone, a personal computer, or using the facilities at application centres. 
For more information on how to apply for funding, call 08000 67327 or visit www.nsfas.org.
Applications for NSFAS funding will close on Friday, 7 January 2022.