How To Apply For NSFAS 2026 Step By Step?

How To Apply For NSFAS 2026 Step By Step?

NSFAS plays an essential role in providing important financial assistance to eligible students originating from disadvantaged backgrounds, effectively democratizing access to higher education and ensuring that deserving individuals can pursue their academic aspirations. While the prospect of applying for NSFAS might initially seem challenging, rest assured that with the provision of the right guidance and a clear understanding of the process, the application can indeed be simple and manageable.

This article is meticulously crafted to serve as your guide, offering a step-by-step approach to completing the application process for NSFAS funding for the 2026 academic year. This guide will walk you through each stage of the application process, ranging from gaining a thorough understanding of the eligibility criteria to ensuring the accurate and timely submission of all the required documents.

By diligently following the detailed instructions and the invaluable tips provided within this guide, you can significantly increase your chances of securing the funding you need and ultimately achieving your educational aspirations. This guide aims to simplify each step, ensuring that you are comprehensively well-prepared to confidently apply for NSFAS in 2026. With NSFAS by your side, financial limitations need not serve as an obstacle hindering your dreams of attaining higher education, get started on securing your future.

Also Check: How to Create NSFAS Account 2026-2027

Who qualifies for NSFAS funding?

All South African citizens
All SASSA grant recipients qualify for funding
Applicants whose combined household income is not more than R350 000 per annum
A person with disability: Combined household income must not be more than R600 000 per annum
Students who started studying before 2022 and whose household income is not more than R122 000 per annum.

Who should not apply?

Students who have completed a previous qualification.
Students with a combined household income of more than R350 000 per annum.
Students who have already applied, qualified, and received funding. They are automatically funded for the duration of their studies provided they pass their modules and meet the academic requirements.

The Requirements Needed To Apply For Nsfas For 2026-2027

Applicants applying for Nsfas for the academic year 2026 will have the following requirements:

NSFAS collects personal information from relevant agencies to verify the employment status and income level of the applicant’s parents, guardians, or spouse.
The NSFAS Declaration Form must be completed by the school principal or a social worker for non-SASSA applicants.
The Orphan and Vulnerable Child Declaration Form, required for applicants under 18, must be completed by a social worker for non-SASSA applicants.
Certified copy of your ID or smart card (not older than 3 months).
A signed and completed consent form.
The NSFAS Consent Form must be signed by the applicant and/or their parent(s), guardian, or spouse. SASSA recipients are not required to submit this form (for non-SASSA applicants only).
Applicants who have indicated a legal guardian must provide a court-issued proof of guardianship.
If guardianship is not court-appointed, the applicant must submit the NSFAS Declaration Form.
The Disability Annexure Form must be completed by a certified medical professional, such as a registered doctor, optometrist, physiotherapist, or the head of a disability unit. This form confirms the applicant’s disability status, outlines the required support, and explains how the student would benefit from the assistance provided.

How To Apply For NSFAS Step-by-Step In 2026

To apply for NSFAS funding, ensure you’ve confirmed your eligibility and compiled all required documents. Then, follow these steps:

Visit the NSFAS Website: Go to www.nsfas.org.za and click on the “myNSFAS” tab.
Create or Log In to Your myNSFAS Account: If you’re a new user, create a “myNSFAS” account; otherwise, login to your existing account.
Complete the Application Form: Click the “Apply” tab on the myNSFAS page and fill out all required sections with your accurate details.
Upload Supporting Documents: Upload all necessary supporting documents as prompted.
Review Your Application: Before submitting, meticulously review your application to ensure all information is accurate.
Submit Your Application: Click the “SUBMIT” button to send your application for evaluation.
Track Your Application Status: Regularly log in to your myNSFAS account to monitor the status of your application.

How To Check The Status of Your NSFAS Application 2026-2027

Here are the steps you need to follow to check the NSFAS Application Status for 2025

Visit the NSFAS Status website at www.nsfas.org.za
Log into your myNSFAS account, or create one if you do not already have one.
Please enter your User ID
Enter your password.
You can check the status of your NSFAS 2025 application by clicking “Track Funding Progress”

NSFAS Contact Details

For general and student inquiries:

For all other queries regarding students: