Understanding the difference helps you maximise your funding options — many students can apply for both.

NSFAS is government-funded and means-tested (income below R350,000/year). Private bursaries are offered by companies, foundations, and sector bodies — many are merit-based, not means-tested. You CAN receive a private bursary AND NSFAS simultaneously in most cases, as long as combined funding does not exceed your actual costs. Always disclose other funding when applying. Private bursaries often come with employment commitments or community service requirements. Use FundaPath to find private bursaries you can stack with your NSFAS funding.