NSFAS Requirements 2026-2027

NSFAS Requirements 2026-2027

The online application window for the 2026-2027 National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) opens in September and closes on December 15, 2025. Applicants must submit their applications within this period by visiting www.nsfas.org.za. NSFAS helps thousands of South African students each year by providing financial support for tuition, accommodation, and other educational expenses. However, applicants must ensure that they meet academic requirements and have in possession all required documentation for the NSFAS bursary.

To apply for the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), you need to meet certain requirements. You must be a South African citizen or permanent resident, and your household income should be no more than R350,000 per year (R600,000 if you have a disability). You also need to have completed Grade 12 or be enrolled in an approved public university or TVET college. Along with your application, you will need to provide documents like a certified ID, proof of income, and, if relevant, a disability form. Make sure to apply during the set period and submit all required documents to be considered.

To increase your chances of a successful application, it is important to stay informed about any changes to the requirements and deadlines. The application period for the 2026-2027 academic year will open in September and close on December 15, 2025. All applications must be submitted before the closing date as late applications may not be considered for 2026-2027. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the NSFAS requirements and help you secure the funding you need to make your educational goals a reality.

READ ALSO: How Is NSFAS Application 2026-2027

NSFAS Eligibility Requirements 2026-2027

To receive NSFAS funding for studying at a TVET college, you need to have passed Grades 9 to 12. For university funding, you must have completed Grade 12. If your NSFAS application is approved, you’ll also need to meet the academic admission requirements of the university or TVET college before any funding is allocated to you. However, you can apply for NSFAS if you are a :

South African citizens or permanent residents
For a bursary: The total household income must be R350,000 or less per year before deductions.
For a loan: The total household income must be between R350,000 and R600,000 per year before deductions.
For persons with disabilities: The total household income must be R600,000 or less per year before deductions.

You Cannot Apply For NSFAS if you are;

Students who receive full study funding from non-NSFAS sources.
Students who have already obtained an undergraduate qualification and wish to pursue a second undergraduate degree.
Students who have completed a certificate qualification and seek to pursue another certificate program.
Students enrolled at private institutions.
Students pursuing qualifications not approved by DHET or accredited by SAQA.

READ: When Is NSFAS Application 2026-2027

Required Documents To Apply For NSFAS 2026-2027

NSFAS requires personal information from relevant agencies to verify the employment and income details of an applicant’s parents, guardians, or spouse. The following documents may be needed:

NSFAS Declaration Form:

To be completed by the school principal or a social worker for non-SASSA applicants.

Orphan and Vulnerable Child Declaration Form:

Required for applicants under 18 and to be completed by a social worker (non-SASSA applicants only).

NSFAS Consent Form:

Must be signed by the applicant and/or their parent, guardian, or spouse. SASSA recipients are exempt from this form.

Proof of Legal Guardianship:

Applicants with a court-appointed legal guardian must provide official documentation from the court.

Non-Court-Appointed Guardianship:

Submit the NSFAS Declaration Form instead.

Disability Annexure Form:

To be completed by a certified medical professional (e.g., doctor, optometrist, physiotherapist, or head of a disability unit), confirming the disability status and outlining the necessary support.

Click HERE for the detailed requirements for NSFAS.

How To Apply For NSFAS 2026-2027

Follow these steps below to successfully apply for NSFAS online for the 2026-2027 academic year:

Create a profile:

Create a myNSFAS account via this link: https://my.nsfas.org.za/ or download the NSFAS App on Google Play or App Store. Your ID number will be your username.

Apply now:

Click on the “Apply’ tab to update your personal information and upload your application supporting documents, as indicated.

Complete:

Submit your application.

Contact NSFAS

Email: info@nsfas.org.za
Facebook: National Student Financial Aid Scheme
Twitter: @myNSFAS
Instagram: @myNSFAS
WhatsApp: +27 63 093 5671
USSD:*120*67327#

By meeting the eligibility requirements and submitting all the necessary documents on time, you’ll increase your chances of a successful application. Visit the official website of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme for more information. I hope the provided information is helpful, share your thoughts below in the comment section.

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