NSFAS Application Criteria 2026-2027

NSFAS Application Criteria 2026-2027

National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) offers a clear pathway to help you achieve your academic goals. Understanding the NSFAS application criteria for the 2026-2027 academic year is essential for submitting a successful application. This article provides a guide to the NSFAS application eligibility requirements that you must meet to ensure you obtain your goal and also the steps you need to get that goal.

This post will break down important criteria, including citizenship verification, demonstrating financial need, and proving academic merit. Learn about the income thresholds and other factors that determine whether you qualify for NSFAS funding. This guide will also walk you through the necessary documentation and application steps to ensure you submit a complete and compelling application.

With the right information and careful preparation, going through the NSFAS application process becomes much easier. Don’t let financial barriers stand in the way of your academic success. Discover how NSFAS can help you unlock your potential and reach your educational goals for the 2026-2027 academic year. Dive into the NSFAS application criteria and set you up for academic success.

Check Here: Will NSFAS Fund Me for 5 Years?

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
The 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.

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 Application Criteria for 2026-2027

To qualify for NSFAS funding in the 2026-2027 academic year, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Academic Eligibility

Must maintain the minimum pass rate to continue receiving funding.
Must meet the academic performance requirements of their chosen program.
Must fulfill the minimum credit requirements for their qualification.

2. Financial Eligibility

Must be a South African citizen or a permanent resident.
Household income must fall within the NSFAS income threshold.
Disabled applicants may qualify under a higher income threshold.
Students receiving SASSA grants automatically meet financial eligibility.

3. Other Eligibility Criteria

Must be registered at a public university or TVET college.
Permanent residents must hold a valid residency permit.
Applicants with disabilities must submit a completed Disability Annexure Form.
NSFAS will verify household income using third-party data sources.

Notes:

NSFAS does not fund students at private institutions.
Applicants must submit their applications before the closing date to be considered.
Late applications may only be accepted if NSFAS announces an extension.

Methods To Apply For NSFAS

After 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.

NSFAS Contact Details

For general and student inquiries:

For all other queries regarding students: