What Is NSFAS Age Limit?

What Is NSFAS Age Limit?

NSFAS does not have an age limit, so you can apply for funding no matter how old you are, just as long as you meet the eligibility requirements. A lot of people think NSFAS is only for recent high school graduates, but that is not true. Whether you are starting university for the first time, going back to finish your studies, or enrolling in a TVET college later in life, you can still qualify for funding.

The only age-related rule is that you must be at least 18 years old when you apply. Even though age is not a factor, NSFAS does have other requirements. It is mainly designed to support students from low-income backgrounds, so your household income and other criteria will determine if you qualify.

To be eligible, your total household income must be R350,000 or less per year (or R600,000 for students with disabilities). You also need to be a South African citizen or permanent resident and be enrolled or planning to study at a public university or TVET college.

NSFAS Eligibility Criteria

You can apply for NSFAS if you are a South African citizen or permanent resident.

Income Requirements:

• Bursary: Household income must be R350,000 or less per year (before deductions).
• Loan: Household income must be between R350,000 and R600,000 per year (before deductions).
• Persons with Disabilities: Household income must be R600,000 or less per year (before deductions).

READ ALSO: How Is NSFAS Application 2026-2027

Required Documents To Apply For NSFAS 2026-2027

When applying for NSFAS funding, you will need to submit certain documents to verify personal details, income levels, and guardianship if applicable. Therefore the following documents are required;

NSFAS Declaration Form

• Required for non-SASSA applicants.
• Must be completed by a school principal or social worker.

Orphan and Vulnerable Child Declaration Form

• For applicants under 18 years old.
• Must be completed by a social worker (non-SASSA applicants only).

NSFAS Consent Form

• Must be signed by the applicant and/or their parent(s), guardian, or spouse.
• SASSA recipients do not need to submit this form.

Proof of Legal Guardianship

• If you have a court-appointed legal guardian, you must submit official documents issued by the court.

Non-Court-Appointed Guardianship

• If your guardian is not court-appointed, you’ll need to submit the NSFAS Declaration Form instead.

Disability Annexure Form

• Required for applicants with disabilities.
• Must be completed by a certified medical professional (e.g., doctor, optometrist, physiotherapist, or head of a disability unit).
• Should confirm the disability status and detail any support needs.

READ: NSFAS Application Form 2026-2027

How To Apply For NSFAS 2026-2027

Follow the steps below to apply online for NSFAS;

• 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#

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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