Legal Q&A

NSFAS Funding Rejected or Cancelled — How to Appeal

NSFAS must give you reasons for any funding rejection or cancellation. You have the right to appeal. Here is how to appeal and escalate if NSFAS does not respond.

Free South African Law

Direct Answer

If NSFAS rejects or cancels your funding, you have the right to appeal the decision. Submit a written appeal on the myNSFAS portal or at your institution's financial aid office within 30 days of the decision. If NSFAS fails to respond, escalate to the DHET or the SAHRC for an education rights complaint.

What the Law Says

Your Legal Foundation

National Student Financial Aid Scheme Act 56 of 1999

Section 5

“NSFAS must administer student loans and bursaries in accordance with its mandate and must have an appeals mechanism for funding decisions.”

Promotion of Administrative Justice Act 3 of 2000

Section 3

“Administrative action adversely affecting a person's rights must be procedurally fair, including the right to reasons and an opportunity to appeal.”

Constitution of South Africa

Section 29

“Everyone has the right to further education, which the state must make progressively available and accessible.”

What to Do

Step-by-Step Guide

1Get the reason for rejection in writing. Log into myNSFAS at nsfas.org.za or request a written explanation from your institution's financial aid office.
2Address the specific reason in your appeal. Common reasons: income threshold exceeded (submit updated proof), academic exclusion (submit re-admission letter), missing documents (resubmit).
3Submit your appeal on the myNSFAS portal under "My Applications" > "Appeal". Alternatively, submit at your institution's financial aid office, which can escalate on your behalf.
4Follow up in writing every 10 business days if you receive no response. Keep records of all submissions and follow-ups.
5Escalate to DHET (Department of Higher Education and Training) or the SAHRC if NSFAS fails to respond or acts unfairly. You can also approach the Public Protector for maladministration.

What to Say

Exact Words to Use

“"I am appealing the rejection/cancellation of my NSFAS funding in terms of Section 3 of PAJA and NSFAS's own appeals procedure. The grounds for my appeal are: [state grounds]. I attach supporting documents. I require a written response within 15 business days."”

Tone: In writing — via the myNSFAS portal and to your financial aid office

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Can NSFAS cancel my funding mid-year?

Only on specified grounds — academic exclusion, income change above the threshold, or misrepresentation. If cancelled mid-year without proper notice and reasons, this is procedurally unfair under PAJA. Appeal immediately and request urgent reinstatement, noting the harm caused to your studies.

What if my institution deregistered me because of NSFAS non-payment?

This is a serious situation. Apply urgently to both NSFAS and your institution for a suspension of deregistration pending your appeal. The SAHRC has intervened in systemic NSFAS failures before — contact them if NSFAS delays are widespread at your institution.

Get Help Now

Resources & Helplines

NSFAS

0800 067 327

Funding enquiries and appeal submissions.
SAHRC

011 877 3600

Education rights complaints for systemic NSFAS failures.
Public Protector

0800 112 040

Report NSFAS maladministration. Free.

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