NSFAS Apply 2026-2027

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) serves a critical function in facilitating access to higher education for South African students from underprivileged backgrounds. By offering bursaries and loans, NSFAS eliminates financial obstacles that might thwart capable individuals from obtaining tertiary qualifications. For the academic year 2026, prospective undergraduate students may commence their applications for financial aid on September 1, 2025, and conclude by January 31, 2026.

Applicants must meet the eligibility criteria and submit the requisite documentation to secure NSFAS funding. A comprehensive understanding of the application process, important dates, and necessary documents is vital for students seeking financial support during the 2026-2027 academic period. This guide provides an exhaustive overview of the NSFAS application procedure for the 2026-2027 period, encompassing eligibility requirements, application timelines, documentation prerequisites, and the effective submission of applications.

Additionally, it will include details on tracking application status and the procedure for appealing a rejection, thereby equipping students to adeptly navigate the NSFAS process. NSFAS funding typically encompasses registration fees, living expenses, study materials, and travel allowances, thereby democratizing access to higher education for prospective candidates. With meticulous preparation and adherence to details, students can enhance their likelihood of receiving NSFAS funding and realizing their academic objectives.

READ ALSO: How Do I Apply For Nsfas 2026-2027

Application Opening And Closing Dates For NSFAS

The application dates for the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) vary by academic cycle and program. You can apply online through the NSFAS website.

2025 TVET application dates

Annual: January 13–24, 2025
Trimester 2: May 12–23, 2025
Semester 2: July 14–31, 2025
Trimester 3: September 8–19, 2025

Application tips

Apply for the academic cycle you intend to register in
Create a profile and complete the application process until the final step
Track the status of your application

Application process

The application process for the 2025 academic year opened on September 20, 2024, and closed on December 15, 2024
The exact application dates may vary from year to year.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Applying for NSFAS funding for the 2026-2027 academic year requires careful preparation and adherence to the guidelines. Prospective students should take note of the application dates, eligibility criteria, required documents, and application process to ensure a successful submission. By utilizing the provided contact information, applicants can seek assistance and clarify any uncertainties. NSFAS remains committed to supporting students from disadvantaged backgrounds, empowering them to achieve their academic aspirations and contribute to South Africa’s future. Click here for more information about NSFAS

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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