If you are planning to study at Gauteng City College and rely on the National Student Financial Assistance Scheme (NSFAS) to help cover your tuition and other study-related costs, it is important to know where this college stands in relation to government funding. NSFAS funding can significantly reduce your financial burden – but only when your chosen institute is approved. This guide walks you through whether Gauteng City College is NSFAS-funded, what your options, if it is not, and what steps you can take to get the support necessary to advance your education.
What Is NSFAS and Who Does It Fund?
NSFAS is a government-funded financial aid program that provides bursaries to eligible South African students who want to study at public universities or public Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges. To qualify, students must meet certain academic and financial criteria.
NSFAS covers:
-
Tuition fees
-
Registration fees
-
Study materials
-
Accommodation (for students studying far from home)
-
Transport and living allowances
Importantly, NSFAS does not fund private colleges or institutions, regardless of the programs they offer. Before applying to Gauteng City College, students are encouraged to perform an NSFAS status check to confirm if their application aligns with NSFAS-funded institutions.
Is Gauteng City College NSFAS-Accredited?
No, Gauteng City College is not funded by NSFAS.
Gauteng City College is a private institution, and according to NSFAS policy, only public institutions are eligible for NSFAS funding. This also applies when a private college provides similar programs in public colleges.
By July 2025, Gauteng City College is not listed between NSFAS-charged institutions, and there are not eligible for any financial assistance through NSFAS.
Alternative Funding Options for Gauteng City College Students
Even though NSFAS isn’t an option, you still have potential pathways to fund your education at Gauteng City College:
1. College-Specific Payment Plans
Gauteng City College often offers internal payment arrangements or flexible fee structures to accommodate students who can’t pay their full tuition upfront. You can inquire at the admissions office or their finance department.
2. Private Bursaries and Scholarships
You can apply for financial assistance through private bursaries. Some examples include:
-
Funza Lushaka Bursary (for teaching, though mostly available to public universities)
-
Sasol Foundation
-
Standard Bank or Nedbank student bursaries
Check eligibility requirements and application windows on each funder’s website.
3. Student Loans
Several banks and private institutions offer education loans, including:
-
Capitec Education Finance
-
Absa Study Loans
-
Standard Bank Student Loans
These options usually require a guarantor and proof of enrollment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Why doesn’t NSFAS fund Gauteng City College?
A: NSFAS only supports public institutions as part of its mandate to ensure free access to public higher education. Gauteng City College is a private institution, and thus falls outside NSFAS’s funding framework. Understand the process of Grade 8 Application
Q2: Can I transfer my NSFAS funding to Gauteng City College?
A: No. NSFAS does not allow transfers to private institutions. You must be enrolled at a public university or TVET college to maintain your NSFAS funding.
Q3: What should I do if I need financial help but want to study at Gauteng City College?
A: Explore private bursaries, scholarships, or student loan options. You may also ask the college if they offer in-house payment plans or discounts.
Q4: Are there any public colleges in Gauteng that NSFAS funds?
A: Yes, several public institutions in Gauteng are NSFAS-funded, such as:
- Tshwane South TVET College
- South West Gauteng TVET College
- University of Johannesburg
- Tshwane University of Technology
Q5: Can I switch from Gauteng City College to a public college to qualify for NSFAS?
A: Yes, but you must apply for admission at a public institution and follow NSFAS’s process to update your funding profile and institution details.
Choosing the Right College is a Major Decision – Spatially When Funding is a Concern. Although Gauteng City College can offer programs that meet their career goals, it is essential to understand that the NSFAS will not support their studies there due to their private status. If Funding is a critical factor in your decision-making, you may go to consider enrolling at the nsfas-to-aCredited public institution. Otherwise, look for alternative financing options such as private scholarships or payment plans to make your studies at Gauteng City College a reality.