What Do I Need To Qualify For Nsfas 2026-2027
What Do I Need To Qualify For Nsfas 2026-2027
Eligibility for NSFAS 2026-2027: What You Need to Apply:
If you are a South African student planning to pursue higher education in 2026-2027, you may be wondering how to secure financial assistance through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). This government initiative aims to support students from disadvantaged backgrounds by offering funding for tuition fees, accommodation, and other academic expenses. However, to access NSFAS funding, you need to meet specific eligibility criteria.
The foremost requirement is South African citizenship. Only South African citizens are eligible to apply for NSFAS. The scheme targets students with financial needs, meaning your household income must fall below a specific threshold of R350,000 as set by the NSFAS. The income limits are subject to change annually, so it is important to stay updated on the latest information.
You also need to be accepted into a public university or TVET college in South Africa, as NSFAS only funds students at these institutions. While academic performance is not directly linked to NSFAS eligibility, meeting the admission requirements of your chosen course is essential. Finally, NSFAS funding is not available to students who are already receiving support from another government-funded scholarship or program.
This guides you through the exact steps, requirements, and process to qualify for NSFAS funding in 2026-2027, helping you secure the financial support you need to achieve your academic goals.
Read: How Do I Apply For Nsfas 2026-2027
Who Qualifies For The Nsfas Burasy For 2026-2027
Before you can receive the NSFAS funds to support your academics, you will need to fall within the following:
- 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 For Nsfas
Below are the people who are not qualified to apply for NSFAS:
- 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.
What Do I Need To Qualify For Nsfas 2026-2027
You will need the following to be able to apply for Nsfas:
- 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.
Supporting Documents You Will Need To Apply For Nsfas For 2026-2027
All Nsfasa applications must be supported by the following documents:
- A copy of your birth certificate or ID
- Copy of ID of parents, guardians, or spouse (if applicable)
- Proof of income or IRP5 (if applicable) for one year
- Income proof from your parents, guardians, or spouse
- It is not necessary to provide proof of income if you are a SASSA grant recipient
- A completed and signed Disability Annexure A Form must be submitted by applicants with disabilities, click here to download it
- A Vulnerable Child Declaration and Consent Form must be completed and signed by the applicant who has been recognized by the Department of Social Development as a Vulnerable Child.
Read Also: Who Qualify For Nsfas Bursary For 2026-2027
2026-2027 Nsfas Application Requirements Download
Download from the links provided below for a full list of the requirements, documents and supporting documents needed in applying for Nsfas:
- Download The Nsfas2026-2027 Eligibility Criteria in PDF
- Download The Nsfas Application Supporting Documents PDF
Contact Details Of Nsfas
- Toll-Free Number: 0800 067 327
- Email: info@nsfas.org.za
- Website: www.nsfas.org.za
Physical Address:
- The Halyard Building, 4 Christiaan Barnard Street,
- Cape Town City Centre, 8001,
- South Africa
Applying for NSFAS financial aid for the 2026-2027 academic year requires careful attention to the necessary documentation. By gathering the required documents, such as your South African ID, proof of income, academic records, and additional supporting materials, you can ensure a smooth application process. Visit the official Website of Nsfas For More.
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