How Old Must You Be To Apply For Nsfas 2026

How Old Must You Be To Apply For Nsfas 2026

To Apply for NSFAS, applicants aged 34 years or younger are required to download the NSFAS Declaration form. This form is used to verify parental/guardian details. People with the required academic background who are admitted to study in a public higher education institution and meet the criteria for financial assistance will receive funding. The National Student Financial Aid Scheme is an essential resource for South African students looking for financial support for their higher education.

As students prepare for their educational journeys in 2026, understanding the eligibility requirements is important. Generally, there is no strict age limit to apply; eligible applicants can range from school leavers to mature students returning to education. Thus, applicants of various ages can find assistance under NSFAS. Applicants or students need to meet other criteria related to citizenship and household income. Certain documentation may be required to verify eligibility.

Through NSFAS, many individuals can pursue their academic goals without financial constraints. This guide aims to clarify the age requirements and provide helpful details for prospective NSFAS applicants. Understanding these parameters will empower students to complete the application process successfully.

Check this: Is NSFAS Open For 2026 Students?

Required Documents To Apply For NSFAS 2026-2027

Before you apply for NSFAS funding, you will need to submit the required documents for the verification of your details, income levels, and guardianship if applicable. Therefore the following documents are required;

NSFAS Declaration Form

Required for non-SASSA applicants.
Must be completed by a school principal or social worker.

Orphan and Vulnerable Child Declaration Form

For applicants under 18 years old.
Must be completed by a social worker (non-SASSA applicants only).

NSFAS Consent Form

Must be signed by the applicant and/or their parent(s), guardian, or spouse.
SASSA recipients do not need to submit this form.

Proof of Legal Guardianship

If you have a court-appointed legal guardian, you must submit official documents issued by the court.

Non-Court-Appointed Guardianship

If your guardian is not court-appointed, you’ll need to submit the NSFAS Declaration Form instead.

Disability Annexure Form

Required for applicants with disabilities.
Must be completed by a certified medical professional (e.g., doctor, optometrist, physiotherapist, or head of a disability unit).
Should confirm the disability status and detail any support needs.

Read On: When Is Nsfas Opening For 2026-2027

Who can apply?

All South African Citizens and permanent residents.
For a bursary: combined household income must not exceed R350 000 per annum before deductions.
For a loan: combined household income over R350 000 and below R600 000 per annum before deductions.
Persons with disabilities: combined household income must not exceed R600 000 per annum before deductions.

How to Apply For Nsfas

Follow these simple steps to apply for Nsfas:

Create a myNSFAS account via this link: https://my.nsfas.org.za/
Click on the ‘Apply’ tab to update your personal information and upload your application supporting documents
Submit your application

NSFAS Contact Details

For general and student inquiries:

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

Account, Payment, and Balance Enquiries

For queries regarding payments and balances:

Tel No.: 08000 67327
Email: collections@nsfas.org.za

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