Download the Non-SASSA Declaration Form in PDF

If you’re applying for NSFAS but have no parents, no ID details to share, and no legal guardian, the system can feel stacked against you.

That’s exactly why the Non-SASSA Declaration Form exists. Backed by a school principal or social worker, it helps orphaned or unsupported youth still qualify for funding fairly and legally.

What Is the Non-SASSA Declaration Form?

The Non-SASSA Declaration Form is an official document used by the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).

It’s for young people who are applying for funding but can’t give any information about their parents or legal guardians because they’ve lost them, don’t know them, or can’t prove the relationship.

NSFAS normally asks for your parent or guardian’s ID, income proof, or contact details. But if you’re orphaned or were raised without any official guardianship, you won’t have those documents. That’s where this form comes in.

The declaration must be signed by either:

• A social worker from the Department of Social Development, or
• The principal of the last school you attended

This confirmation acts as evidence that you truly don’t have access to the required family support, so NSFAS can still process your application.

Who Needs This Form?

You’ll need to complete the Non-SASSA Declaration Form if:

• You are 34 years old or younger
• You can’t provide any parental or guardian information (no ID, contact details, or financial proof)
• You were raised without official documentation of your caregivers
• Your relationship with your parents can’t be verified by NSFAS

This form helps NSFAS know that you genuinely need financial help for university or TVET college, even if you have no one to list as your guardian.

What Information Goes Into the Form?

Here’s what the form asks for:

• Your full name, ID number, and contact number
• A signed statement that you don’t have access to your parent(s) or guardian(s)
• A short explanation by your guardian, if you had one unofficially (like a relative or neighbor)
• Signature and details from a social worker or your former school principal
• Date when you started living under that guardian’s care (if any)
• Your signature, confirming that the information is true

The social worker or principal must stamp and sign the form officially. They’re confirming that you don’t have any living parent or verified guardian that NSFAS can trace.

Why Is It So Important?

NSFAS needs to protect public funds, so they verify every student’s background. If you don’t have documents showing your parents’ details, your application could be rejected.

But the Non-SASSA Declaration Form is your legal way to show that your situation is real. Once signed by an official and submitted with your NSFAS application, it gives you the same opportunity to get funding as any other applicant.

Without this form, NSFAS can’t move forward with your application. It’s not just paperwork—it’s proof of your reality.

And be careful: If NSFAS finds out the information was false, you may lose the funding, be asked to pay it back, or even face legal action. Always be honest when filling out this form.

Where to Download the Non-SASSA Declaration Form (PDF)?

The form is free and can be downloaded directly from the NSFAS website:

Or you can:

• Ask for the form at any TVET college or public university
• Request it via email from NSFAS support
• Get a printed copy from your local social worker or school admin office

Once you have it, print it, fill in your details, and make sure a social worker or school principal completes their section. Then submit it together with your full NSFAS application.

Tips Before Submitting

• Don’t leave any sections blank
• Use clear handwriting or fill digitally if possible
• Make sure the official signs and stamps it
• Submit a copy with your NSFAS application before the deadline

Final Words

The Non-SASSA Declaration Form is more than just a form. For many students, it’s a lifeline proof that even if you don’t have a parent or guardian, your dreams still matter.

It helps ensure no one is left behind just because they come from a hard place.

If you’ve made it this far without help, this form is one step closer to getting the support you deserve.