In a major step towards empowering South Africa’s youth and reducing poverty, the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has announced that 272,098 social grant beneficiaries applied for funding through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).
Out of these applicants, 261,950 were provisionally accepted, giving them the opportunity to access higher education and build a brighter future.

This initiative highlights the powerful role of social grants in enabling educational opportunities for disadvantaged communities.
By combining the resources of NSFAS and SASSA, the government is addressing financial barriers that prevent many students from pursuing tertiary education.
Social grants and NSFAS funding work together to help break the cycle of poverty in South Africa. With the Department of Social Development and the National Development Agency (NDA) supporting the government’s broader vision outlined in the National Development Plan (NDP) 2030, these programs aim to improve the lives of individuals and their families.
The motto “paying the right social grant, to the right person, at the right time and place” is a cornerstone of SASSA’s operations. This precision ensures that financial aid reaches those who need it most, enabling social grant beneficiaries to take a critical step toward personal and professional growth.
The government’s commitment to the education of grant recipients is underscored by the statistics: of the 272,098 applicants, an overwhelming 96% have been provisionally accepted for NSFAS funding. This marks a tremendous effort in leveling the educational playing field and fostering long-term social and economic transformation.
For more information about social grants and NSFAS funding, contact the toll-free line at 0800 60 10 11 or visit the official SASSA website at www.sassa.gov.za. Stay connected through SASSA News on Facebook and @OfficialSASSA on X.
Together, SASSA and NSFAS are ensuring that education becomes a reality for thousands of young South Africans, making strides toward an equitable and empowered society.
Key Highlights:
- Applications Received: 272,098 social grant beneficiaries applied for NSFAS funding.
- Provisional Acceptances: 261,950 beneficiaries have been approved.
- Purpose: Breaking the cycle of poverty through education.