How to Create NSFAS Account 2026-2027

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) plays a vital role in supporting South African students seeking access to higher education. Established to provide financial assistance to those from low-income backgrounds, NSFAS enables students to pursue their academic goals without the burden of financial stress. The first step in receiving this valuable support is creating an NSFAS account, which acts as a portal for managing applications and tracking funding statuses.

For the upcoming 2026-2027 academic year, prospective applicants must familiarize themselves with the updated process for account creation. This involves providing necessary personal details, including identification documents, and household income information, and ensuring compliance with eligibility criteria. Understanding the specific requirements and steps involved in this process is crucial for a smooth application experience.

Therefore, this guide will elaborate on how to successfully create an NSFAS account, detailing each step required to ensure applicants can navigate the system effectively and benefit from the financial aid available to them. By following the outlined steps, students will be well-positioned to access the opportunities afforded by NSFAS, which are instrumental in furthering their educational pursuits.

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 provide financial support to disadvantaged students who wish to further their studies at public universities or TVET colleges.

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 m 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 Ris 18,900 per annum
Accommodation in a rural area Ris 15,750 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

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

READ ALSO: How To Create A Nsfas Account 2026

Necessary Prerequisites for NSFAS

Before starting the account creation process, applicants need to ensure they meet specific prerequisites. These include having a valid South African ID, proof of household income, and a confirmed registration at an accredited higher learning institution (NSFAS Registration for 2025-2026, 2024). Additionally, students must have an email address and a mobile number, as these will be required during the registration process.

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.

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating an NSFAS Account

To create an NSFAS account for the 2026-2027 application cycle, follow these steps:

Visit the NSFAS Website:

The first step is to go to the official NSFAS website, which is located at www.nsfas.org.za.

Click on the myNSFAS Tab:

Locate and click on the “myNSFAS” tab. This will direct you to the account registration section where you can begin to set up your profile.

Register for an Account:

After clicking on the “Register” option, fill in your details, including your ID number, email address, and password. Ensure that your password is secure and memorable.

Complete Personal Details:

Once registered, log into your account and fill in your personal information. This includes contact details, academic history, and any other required information.

Upload Supporting Documents:

After completing your profile, you will need to upload the necessary documents, such as your ID, proof of income, and academic records. Make sure that these documents are clear and legible to avoid any delays.

Submit Your Application:

Review all the information you have filled out for accuracy before clicking the “Submit” button. After submission, keep an eye out for a confirmation message, which may include a reference number for tracking your application.

Check Your Application Status:

To track the progress of your NSFAS application, log back into your account periodically. You will be able to see if your application is still under review or if any action is required on your part.

Creating an NSFAS account is an essential step for students seeking financial support for their higher education in South Africa. By adhering to the outlined steps and ensuring all documentation is correctly provided, students can greatly enhance their chances of receiving the necessary funding to achieve their academic goals. NSFAS remains a vital resource in levelling the educational playing field, facilitating access to higher education, and helping students from disadvantaged backgrounds fulfil their potential.

For general and student enquiries:

For all other queries regarding students: