The NSFAS N+ Rule can have significant effects on students who move from a TVET college to a university. Here’s a breakdown of how it works in that context:
- MUST READ FIRST – NSFAS N+ Rule -How it Works.
Now that you have understood the NSFAS N+ Rule, let’s move into how it affects students moving from one school to another.
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Moving from TVET to University: How the N+ Rule Applies
When a student moves from a TVET College to a university, NSFAS takes into account:
- The total number of years already funded, and
- The N+2 limit for your new qualification.
EXAMPLE:
Let’s say you did a 2-year TVET diploma and NSFAS funded you for both years.
Then, you start a 3-year degree at university.
- The new qualification’s N = 3 (minimum time to complete).
- So, your funding window is N + 2 = 5 years.
- NSFAS subtracts the 2 years already funded at TVET.
That leaves you with 3 more years of funding — just enough to finish your degree on time, but no room for failure or delays.
NOTE:
- If you fail or repeat any university years, you may exceed the N+2 limit.
- NSFAS will stop funding once you’ve used up your allowed years, even if you haven’t completed the qualification.
- Some students don’t realize that TVET years count toward the limit, which leads to unexpected funding cutoffs.
What is the solution?
As a student, there are important considerations to take before going in to your academic journey.
- Plan carefully: Try to pass all your modules to stay within your N+2.
- Appeal early: If you’re at risk of exceeding the limit due to valid reasons (illness, family issues, etc.), you can submit an NSFAS appeal.
- Seek academic support: Use tutoring and advising services to avoid repeating years.
Have a smooth academic year, and don’t forget we are always open to answer your questions
