List of Distance Learning Universities Funded by NSFAS in South Africa (2025)

Higher education in South Africa is a gateway to better career opportunities, higher income, and personal growth. However, many students cannot afford university tuition, travel, or accommodation costs. This is where NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme) funding and distance learning universities play a critical role.

NSFAS provides financial support to eligible students from low-income families. Combining NSFAS funding with distance learning universities allows students to earn a recognized degree or diploma entirely online, without leaving home.

This guide will provide a complete overview of NSFAS-funded distance learning universities in South Africa. We will cover:

• Universities offering online or distance learning programs funded by NSFAS.

• Admission requirements and eligibility criteria.

• Step-by-step guidance on applying for NSFAS distance learning support.

• Courses available, tuition fees, and study flexibility.

• A comparison table of top universities.

• Frequently asked questions for prospective distance learners.

Whether you are a school leaver, working professional, or adult learner, this guide will help you access affordable, flexible, and accredited higher education in 2025.

Why NSFAS-Funded Distance Learning Universities Matter in South Africa

For many students, financial barriers prevent access to higher education. Distance learning universities funded by NSFAS solve this problem by providing:

• Tuition coverage for eligible students.

• Flexible study options for students who work or live far from campus.

• Access to accredited programs recognized by employers and professional bodies.

• Opportunities for lifelong learning and career advancement.

Benefits of Studying at NSFAS-Funded Distance Learning Universities

1. Cost-Free Education for Eligible Students
   NSFAS covers tuition fees, and in some cases, study materials, allowing students from low-income backgrounds to pursue higher education without financial stress.

2. Flexible Learning Schedule
   Distance learning enables students to study from home, set their own pace, and balance work or family commitments.

3. Wide Range of Programs
   Students can study diverse fields, including business, education, IT, social sciences, health sciences, and engineering.

4. Nationally Recognized Qualifications
   Degrees and diplomas earned are accredited and recognized by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET).

5. Career Advancement Opportunities
   Graduates can access better job opportunities, promotions, and career growth in competitive industries.

6. Access to Learning Support
   Universities provide online tutorials, study guides, e-libraries, and tutor support to help distance learners succeed.

How NSFAS Funding Works for Distance Learning Students

NSFAS is a government scheme that provides funding for tuition fees and sometimes living expenses. For distance learning students:

• NSFAS covers tuition fees directly to the university.

• Eligible students may receive allowances for study materials, data, or online resources.

• Students must meet NSFAS criteria, including family income thresholds and academic requirements.

• Students must submit their applications annually to continue receiving funding.

Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for NSFAS Distance Learning Support

1. Check Eligibility

   • South African citizen or permanent resident.

   • Household income within NSFAS limits (usually below R350,000 per year).

   • Accepted at an NSFAS-partner distance learning university.

2. Gather Required Documents

   • South African ID

   • Proof of income (parents or guardians if dependent)

   • Academic transcripts or certificates

3. Complete the NSFAS Application Online
   Visit the official NSFAS portal, create an account, and fill in personal and financial details.

4. Submit Supporting Documents
   Upload scanned copies of ID, income proof, and academic records.

5. Wait for Assessment
   NSFAS will assess eligibility and communicate funding approval.

6. Register at the Distance Learning University
   Once NSFAS approves, register for your chosen program. Tuition will be paid directly by NSFAS.

Top Distance Learning Universities Funded by NSFAS in South Africa

1. University of South Africa (UNISA)

• Programs Offered: Humanities, Commerce, Education, Law, Science, IT

• Admission Requirements: National Senior Certificate (NSC) or equivalent; some postgraduate programs require a prior degree

• Tuition Fees: Covered by NSFAS for eligible students; varies by program

• Study Mode: Fully online, flexible self-paced modules

• Benefits: Largest distance learning university in Africa, nationally recognized qualifications

2. University of Pretoria – Distance Learning Programs

• Programs Offered: Education, Business Management, Law, Information Technology

• Admission Requirements: Matric certificate with required subject combinations; prior qualifications for postgraduate courses

• Tuition Fees: NSFAS-funded tuition for eligible students

• Study Mode: Online learning with occasional workshops or assessments

• Benefits: Top-tier university reputation, practical skills focus

3. North-West University (NWU) – Distance Education

• Programs Offered: Education, Social Sciences, Commerce, Health Sciences

• Admission Requirements: NSC, or equivalent; adult learners may qualify based on experience

• Tuition Fees: NSFAS covers tuition for qualifying students

• Study Mode: Fully online with interactive modules and virtual support

• Benefits: Accredited qualifications, flexible learning for working students

4. University of South Africa – Postgraduate Distance Programs

• Programs Offered: MBA, MEd, MCom, LLM, MSc

• Admission Requirements: Relevant bachelor’s degree or diploma

• Tuition Fees: NSFAS may fund qualifying students for postgraduate diplomas and degrees

• Study Mode: Online and modular learning

• Benefits: Access to high-level qualifications for career advancement

5. University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) – Online Programs

• Programs Offered: Education, Health Sciences, Business, Social Sciences

• Admission Requirements: Matric or relevant prior qualifications; adult learners considered

• Tuition Fees: NSFAS tuition coverage for eligible students

• Study Mode: Online study with occasional on-campus practicals

• Benefits: Accredited, nationally recognized qualifications with flexible scheduling

6. University of Cape Town (UCT) – Online Short Courses

• Programs Offered: Business, Law, Education, IT, Health Sciences

• Admission Requirements: Varies by course; some require matric or prior degree

• Tuition Fees: Selected short courses may be NSFAS-funded

• Study Mode: Fully online courses and modules

• Benefits: Prestigious university, career-focused programs, internationally recognized

7. Nelson Mandela University – Distance Learning

• Programs Offered: Education, Business, Social Work, IT

• Admission Requirements: NSC certificate or equivalent

• Tuition Fees: Covered by NSFAS for eligible distance learners

• Study Mode: Online with virtual tutorials and assessments

• Benefits: Flexible study, accredited vocational and academic qualifications

8. Stellenbosch University – Online and Distance Learning

• Programs Offered: Commerce, Business Administration, Law, Education

• Admission Requirements: Matric with required subjects; postgraduate courses require prior degree

• Tuition Fees: NSFAS-funded tuition for qualifying students

• Study Mode: Online learning with e-resources and support

• Benefits: Prestigious university, high employability outcomes

9. University of Johannesburg (UJ) – Online Programs

• Programs Offered: Business, Education, Health Sciences, IT

• Admission Requirements: NSC certificate or equivalent; adult learners may qualify

• Tuition Fees: NSFAS tuition coverage for eligible students

• Study Mode: Fully online distance learning with practical support

• Benefits: Accredited qualifications, career-oriented courses

10. Walter Sisulu University – Distance Learning

• Programs Offered: Education, Health Sciences, Business Studies, IT

• Admission Requirements: Matric or adult learner approval

• Tuition Fees: NSFAS covers tuition for eligible students

• Study Mode: Online modules with occasional practical sessions

• Benefits: Flexible and accessible for remote students, accredited programs

Comparison Table of NSFAS-Funded Distance Learning Universities (2025)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is NSFAS?
   NSFAS is the National Student Financial Aid Scheme, providing funding for tuition, accommodation, and study materials to eligible South African students.

2. Which universities are NSFAS-funded for distance learning?
   UNISA, NWU, University of Pretoria, UKZN, UCT, Nelson Mandela University, Stellenbosch, UJ, and Walter Sisulu University offer NSFAS-funded distance programs.

3. Do I need matric to study via distance learning with NSFAS?
   Yes, most programs require a National Senior Certificate, although some accept mature learners based on work experience.

4. Can I study online and work at the same time?
   Yes. Distance learning provides flexible schedules, making it possible to balance work and study.

5. What courses are available through NSFAS-funded distance learning?
   Business, Education, IT, Health Sciences, Social Work, Law, Engineering, and more.

6. How do I apply for NSFAS distance learning funding?
   Create an account on the NSFAS portal, submit personal and financial documents, and await approval before registering at the university.

7. Are qualifications from distance learning universities recognized?
   Yes, all NSFAS-funded distance learning universities provide nationally accredited qualifications.

8. Can international students access NSFAS funding?
   No. NSFAS is only available to South African citizens or permanent residents.

9. Do NSFAS-funded programs include study materials?
   Some programs provide study materials, online resources, and e-books, depending on the university.

10. How long does it take to complete a distance learning degree?
    Depending on the program, bachelor’s degrees typically take 3–6 years; postgraduate programs 1–3 years.

Conclusion

NSFAS-funded distance learning universities provide an affordable, flexible, and accredited pathway to higher education for South African students. Institutions like UNISA, NWU, University of Pretoria, UKZN, UCT, Nelson Mandela University, Stellenbosch, UJ, and Walter Sisulu University offer diverse programs, career-focused qualifications, and support services tailored for distance learners.

By leveraging NSFAS funding, students can study from home, pursue nationally recognized qualifications, and enhance their career opportunities without financial stress.

Take the first step today: check eligibility, apply for NSFAS funding, and enroll in a distance learning program to secure your future career and financial independence in 2025.