NSFAS Application 2026-2027 Online Application

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is instrumental in providing financial assistance to South African students from underprivileged backgrounds, thus facilitating their access to higher education. For the upcoming 2026 academic year, undergraduate candidates will have the opportunity to apply for financial support via NSFAS, which operates as a non-profit organization dedicated to this cause. The online application portal will be available from September 1, 2025, to January 31, 2026.

This document serves as a detailed guide to the NSFAS online application process for the 2026-2027 period, outlining essential eligibility requirements, necessary documentation, and procedural steps involved. A thorough comprehension of the stipulated requirements and application timelines is vital for students aspiring to secure financial aid. NSFAS is committed to assisting students enrolled in public universities and TVET colleges, thereby ensuring that financial limitations do not obstruct their educational objectives.

Through its provision of bursaries and loans, NSFAS addresses various expenditures, including registration fees, accommodation, and essential study materials. The myNSFAS online portal streamlines this process, making it accessible to all applicants with internet connectivity. This guide aims to equip students with the knowledge necessary to navigate the application process proficiently and enhance their likelihood of securing funding for their studies.

Application Dates For NSFAS

The application deadline for the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) for the 2025 academic year was December 15, 2024. Applications were done online at nsfas.org.za.

Other application dates for 2025

TVET Trimester 2: May 12–23, 2025
TVET Semester 2: July 14–31, 2025
TVET Trimester 3: September 8–19, 2025
Private accommodation: Applications opened on January 6, 2025, and remain open until all NSFAS-accredited properties are filled

Application tips

Applications for NSFAS vary by year and may change.
To apply, you must create a profile on the NSFAS Student portal.
To be considered, you must complete your application fully.
You can track the status of your application on the NSFAS website.

READ ALSO: NSFAS Apply 2026-2027

Eligibility Criteria for NSFAS

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

Other eligibility criteria

SASSA grant recipients automatically qualify for financial eligibility
Students who are unmarried and independent of their parents may need to submit a report from a social worker or a court order
Students who change institution types may need to re-apply for funding
Students who de-register or drop out during an academic term may need to re-apply

Required Documents For NSFAS

To apply for the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), you’ll need to submit certified copies of the following documents:

ID: A certified copy of your ID or smart card that’s no more than three months old
Proof of income: If you’re dependent on a parent, guardian, or spouse, you’ll need to provide their proof of income
Academic transcript: A certified copy of your latest academic transcript or exam results
Proof of ownership: If you’re applying for accommodation, you’ll need to provide proof of ownership, such as a valid title deed
Lease agreement: If the property you’re applying for is leased, you’ll need to provide the lease agreement
Consent form: A signed and completed consent form
Disability Annexure A: If you have a disability, you’ll need to complete and sign Annexure A
Declaration Form: If you’re an orphan, you’ll need to complete and sign a Declaration Form
Other documents: If applicable, you may need to provide a retrenchment letter, UIF documentation, death certificate, or divorce decree

Online NSFAS Application Process

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.

Tracking Your Application Status

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)

The NSFAS online application for the 2026-2027 academic year offers a vital opportunity for South African students from disadvantaged backgrounds to access higher education. By understanding the key application dates, eligibility criteria, required documents, and the online application process, students can increase their chances of receiving financial aid. Staying informed and submitting all necessary documents within the specified timeframe is essential for a successful application.

For general and student enquiries:

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

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