Cabinet has called on all qualifying students entering and already in the tertiary education sector to apply for the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) bursaries and loans, which opened on Friday, 20 September. The National Student Financial Aid Scheme officially opened the 2025 applications process today and is committed to providing bursaries and loans to eligible and deserving students who require financial assistance. Speaking at a media briefing on Friday, Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said: 'to apply, aspiring and returning students should visit my.nsfas.org.za'. Applications will close on 15 December. On Monday, Higher Education and Training Minister, Dr Nobuhle Nkabane also invited all students who are siting for their matric exams this year to take this opportunity and apply for either the NSFAS bursary or loan. Having received a presentation during the stakeholder consultations, and having noted the comments received from stakeholders, Nkabane said she was confide nt that the NSFAS is ready to kickstart the 2025 online application process. 'This invitation is also extended to learners from grade 9, 10, and 11, who would like to enter the Technical and Vocational Education and Training sector,' Nkabane said at the time. The NSFAS bursary is open to all South African citizens and permanent residents with a combined household income of not more than R350 000 per annum. For persons living with disabilities, the combined household income is capped at R600 000 per annum. The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) grant recipients automatically qualify on financial eligibility. The NSFAS loan is open to all South African citizens and permanent residents where the combined household income is between R350 001 and R600 000 per annum. For persons living with disabilities, the combined household income is capped at R600 000 per annum. Source: South African Government News Agency