Is NSFAS Open For 2026-2027

Is NSFAS Open For 2026-2027

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) serves as a critical support system for South African students seeking higher education. As we approach the 2026-2027 academic year, many potential applicants are keen to understand the application timeline and the status of NSFAS funding opportunities. With the ever-increasing costs of tuition and living expenses, the availability of NSFAS funding can significantly impact students’ educational journeys.

The NSFAS application period for the 2026 academic year opened on September 1, 2025, and will close on January 31, 2026. This timeline allows both new and returning students the opportunity to apply for financial support to cover their tuition fees, accommodation, and other related costs. However, it is crucial to note that applications submitted outside this timeframe will not be considered, thereby highlighting the importance of adhering to these deadlines.

Key Application Dates for NSFAS 2026

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

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 2018 and whose household income is not more than R122 000 per annum.

READ ALSO: NSFAS Apply 2026-2027

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.

NSFAS Eligibility Criteria 2026-2027

To qualify for NSFAS funding, you must meet the following criteria:

Be a South African citizen or permanent resident
Have a combined household income that meets the specified limit
Be registered at an approved public institution in South Africa
Be studying towards an undergraduate qualification
Pass your modules and meet academic requirements

Household income

For a bursary, your combined household income must be no more than R350,000 per year
For a loan, your combined household income must be between R350,001 and R600,000 per year
If you have a disability, your combined household income must be no more than R600,000 per year

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.

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.

Steps to NSFAS Status Check Online

Visit the NSFAS Website. Navigate to the official NSFAS website at www.nsfas.org.za.
Log in to Your myNSFAS Account.
Select “View Applications”
Check Your NSFAS Status.
Follow Up on Your Application (If Necessary)

While NSFAS is officially open for the 2026-2027 academic year, students need to act promptly and remain vigilant about the application process and associated deadlines. The NSFAS funding scheme continues to play an essential role in democratizing access to higher education in South Africa, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder students’ academic achievements.

For general and student enquiries:

For all other queries regarding students: