Does NSFAS Open For Second Semester 2026-2027
Does NSFAS Open For Second Semester 2026-2027
In South Africa, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) plays a pivotal role in facilitating access to higher education for students from disadvantaged backgrounds. As many students begin to plan their academic pursuits for the year ahead, a common query arises: will NSFAS open for the second semester of 2026-2027? This question holds significant importance since NSFAS funding can alleviate the financial burdens associated with tuition fees, accommodation, and educational materials.
As students transition from the first semester to the second, the opportunity to apply for funding can prove crucial for many aspiring learners. Understanding the timelines, eligibility criteria, and application process for NSFAS can empower students to make informed decisions regarding their educational journey. This essay will explore the anticipated opening dates for NSFAS applications for the second semester of 2026-2027, as well as the steps involved in successfully navigating the application process. By engaging with the procedures and requirements of NSFAS, students can better position themselves to secure financial assistance and achieve their academic goals.
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NSFAS Application Date For Second Semester Opening
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. Below is a list of specific application dates and deadlines for the second semester of 2026-2027;
- 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
Importance of Knowing The Application Dates for NSFAS
Application dates for the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) are important because late applications are not accepted. Applicants must submit their applications on time to secure financial assistance.
- NSFAS applications open and close the year before the registration year.
- The application period for 2025 closed on December 15, 2024.
- NSFAS does not accept late applications.
- NSFAS runs outreach programs to help students and out-of-school youth apply for funding.
- Students who change institutions or move through the NSFAS academic pathways may need to reapply.
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Eligibility Criteria For NSFAS
A student must meet certain academic and financial criteria to be eligible for the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).
Academic criteria
- Be registered for an NSFAS-approved qualification
- Meet the NSFAS academic progression criteria
- Meet the N+ rules
- Maintain a minimum pass rate to continue receiving funding
Financial criteria
- Be a South African citizen or permanent resident
- Have a combined household income below a certain threshold
- Be a recipient of a SASSA grant
- Not have already received NSFAS funding
Other criteria
- Have passed grade 12 (matric)
- Plan to study at a public university or TVET college
Documentation Required To Apply For NSFAS
- NSFAS requires personal information from agencies relating to the employment status and level of income of the parents or guardians/spouse of the applicant.
- NSFAS Declaration Form is completed by the Principal of the School or the Social Worker. (Non-SASSA only).
- The Orphan and Vulnerable Child Declaration Form (for applicants under 18 years) is completed by the Social Worker. (Non-SASSA only).
- The NSFAS Consent form is completed by the applicant and/or parent/s, guardian or spouse. SASSA recipients do not require this form. (Non-SASSA only).
- If an applicant has indicated that they have a Legal guardian, they must provide proof of guardianship issued by the Court.
- Guardianship (not court-appointed) applicant to provide NSFAS declaration form.
- Disability Annexure Form: The form must be filled out by a certified, duly registered medical doctor or another suitably qualified professional (such as an optometrist, physiotherapist, or head of the disability unit), who may confirm the student’s status as disabled and specify the kind of support the student needs as well as how the student would benefit from the suggested support.
Other documents that may be required, if applicable:
- Retrenchment letter
- Death certificate/s
- Divorce Decree
- Proof of legal guardianship
- Marriage certificate
- other documents may be required for appeal purposes, eg retrenchment letter.
Application Process For the Second Semester For NSFAS
The application process for the second semester of NSFAS is similar to the first semester’s. You can apply for NSFAS online at NSFAS.
Steps for applying
- Verify your eligibility and prepare the required documents
- Create a myNSFAS account
- Log in to your account
- Click the “Apply” tab
- Fill out the online application form
- Upload the required documents
- Submit your application
- Track your application status
Steps for tracking your application status
- Log in to your myNSFAS account
- Click the “track funding progress” option
- Your application status will be displayed on the screen
Who needs to reapply for NSFAS?
- Students who are returning or moving through the NSFAS academic pathways
- Students who change institution types, such as from TVET to University or vice versa
While NSFAS applications for the 2026 academic year are scheduled to open from September 1, 2025, to January 31, 2026, students should remain alert to potential updates regarding second-semester applications. The eligibility criteria are essential for students to meet, ensuring their applications align with the established parameters set forth by NSFAS. To navigate the financial aid landscape successfully, it is crucial to monitor official announcements while preparing necessary documentation ahead of the applications. By doing so, students can enhance their chances of obtaining the financial aid required to further their education and achieve their academic goals.
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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