Apply For NSFAS Online 2026-2027

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) plays a role in facilitating access to higher education for students in South Africa, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds. As the demand for financial assistance rises, the 2026-2027 application cycle is poised to provide opportunities for eligible learners to secure funding for their studies.

With an online application system in place, applying for NSFAS has become more streamlined, allowing students to submit their requests conveniently from any location. Understanding the requirements and following the application steps is essential for prospective students aiming to obtain financial aid. The NSFAS supports various forms of funding, including loans and bursaries, significantly impacting the educational landscape.

This guide will delve into the intricacies of the NSFAS online application process for the upcoming academic year, emphasizing key eligibility criteria, necessary documentation, and important deadlines. Furthermore, it will highlight tips to enhance one’s application, ensuring all prospective applicants are well-prepared to navigate the process effectively. By staying informed and organized, students can maximize their chances of receiving the financial assistance they need to pursue their academic aspirations.

What is NSFAS?

NSFAS is a government entity under the Department of Higher Education and Training established according to the NSFAS Act (Act 56 of 1999) to financially support disadvantaged students who wish to further their studies at public universities or TVET colleges.

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is the government student bursary and loan scheme that receives its funding budget from, and reports to the Department of Higher Education and Training. The scheme was established under the National Student Financial Aid Scheme Act 56 of 1999.

Key Application Dates And Details For NSFAS

The 2025 National Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) application period was open from the beginning of the year until December 15, 2024. All applications were required to be submitted online.

Key application dates

Application period: Open from the beginning of the year until December 15, 2024
Trimester 2: May 12–23, 2025
Semester 2: July 14–31, 2025
Trimester 3: September 8–19, 2025

READ ALSO: Does NSFAS Cover TUT?

How To Apply For NSFAS

Once you have confirmed your eligibility and gathered the necessary documents, follow these steps to apply for NSFAS:

Visit the NSFAS website at www.nsfas.org.za and click on the myNSFAS tab.
Create a myNSFAS account if you do not have one, or log in to your existing account.
Click on the “Apply” tab on the myNSFAS page and fill in the required sections with your details.
Upload all the necessary supporting documents.
Carefully review your application to ensure all information is accurate before submitting it.
Click the “SUBMIT” button to ensure your application is sent for evaluation.
It is essential to keep track of your application status by logging in to your myNSFAS account.

What to expect after applying

You can check the status of your application on the myNSFAS portal
You may need to upload missing documents or provide more information
If your application is rejected, you can appeal

What documents may be required

Disability Annexure A Form
NSFAS 2025 Consent form
NSFAS Declaration form
Vulnerable Child Declaration form
Retrenchment letter
Death certificate(s)
Divorce Decree
Proof of legal guardianship
Marriage certificate

What does the bursary cover?

Amounts indicated for accommodation, living allowance, transport and learning materials need to be aligned with the approved latest DHET guidelines.

UNIVERSITY

Accommodation: As per the actual costs charged by the university (costs for private accommodation must not exceed costs for university residence)
Transport (up to 40 km from the institution) R7 500 per annum
Living allowance R15, 000 per annum
Book allowances R5200 per annum
Incidental/personal care allowance of R2900 per annum for students in catered residences

TVET

Accommodation in an urban area is R24,000 per annum
Accommodation in a peri-urban area is R18,900 per annum
Accommodation in a rural area is R15,750 per annum
Transport (up to 40 km from the institution) R7,350 per annum
Transport R7000 per annum
Incidental/personal care allowance R2900 per annum

Eligibility Criteria For NSFAS

To be eligible for the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) in South Africa, you must meet the following criteria:

Be a South African citizen or permanent resident
Have a household income that meets the income limits
Be registered at a public university or TVET college
Be studying or intend to study towards an undergraduate qualification
Have passed grade 12 (matric)

Household income

The combined household income of the student and their family members must not exceed R350,000 per year
If the student has a disability, the combined household income must not exceed R600,000 per year
If the student started studying before 2018, the combined household income must not exceed R122,000 per year

Other eligibility criteria

You must be an SASSA grant recipient
You must not have already completed a previous qualification
You must not have already applied, qualified, and received funding.

Preparing Your Application

Before starting the online application process, applicants should gather all necessary documents. This includes a certified copy of your ID, proof of household income, and academic records. These documents help NSFAS verify the eligibility of each applicant and ensure that the right financial aid is provided.

Applying for NSFAS for the 2026-2027 academic year is a vital step for many South African students aiming to secure financial aid for their studies. Understanding the eligibility criteria, following the prescribed application steps, and preparing the necessary documents can significantly enhance the likelihood of a successful application. As the application period approaches, staying informed and organized will empower aspirants to utilize NSFAS funding effectively, paving the way for a more accessible higher education landscape in South Africa.

For general and student enquiries:

For all other queries regarding students:

Tel No.: 08000 67327

Email: info@nsfas.org.za

Physical Address (Head Office):

The Halyard, 4 Christiaan Barnard St,

Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8001

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