What Is Required To Apply For NSFAS 2026-2027

Established to assist individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds, NSFAS ensures that economic barriers do not hinder educational aspirations. With the upcoming application cycle for the 2026-2027 academic year, prospective applicants must be aware of specific requirements to qualify for funding. Essential eligibility criteria include being a South African citizen or permanent resident and demonstrating a household income that meets stipulated financial thresholds.

Furthermore, applicants must prepare necessary documentation, such as identification and proof of income. Completing the NSFAS application accurately through the online portal is also critical. This essay will delineate the detailed requirements necessary for applying to NSFAS, offering insights into the funding process that empowers deserving students to pursue their academic goals.

By navigating these requirements effectively, students can heighten their chances of securing financial assistance for their educational journey. Understanding these prerequisites not only facilitates a smoother application process but also amplifies the opportunities available to financially needy individuals striving for higher education. The insights shared herein will serve to illuminate the pathways toward funding and support available through NSFAS.

Eligibility Criteria For NSFAS

To be eligible for the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) in South Africa, you must meet the following criteria:

Be a South African citizen or permanent resident
Have a household income that meets the income limits
Be registered at a public university or TVET college
Be studying or intend to study towards an undergraduate qualification
Have passed grade 12 (matric)

Household income

The combined household income of the student and their family members must not exceed R350,000 per year
If the student has a disability, the combined household income must not exceed R600,000 per year
If the student started studying before 2018, the combined household income must not exceed R122,000 per year

Other eligibility criteria

You must be an SASSA grant recipient
You must not have already completed a previous qualification
You must not have already applied, qualified, and received funding.

Supporting documents

Certified copy of your ID number
Certified copy of your latest academic transcript or exam results
Certified copy of the ID number of each household member

Other documents that may be required, such as:

Disability Annexure A Form
NSFAS Declaration form
Vulnerable Child Declaration form
Retrenchment letter
Death certificate/s
Divorce Decree
Proof of legal guardianship
Marriage certificate

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

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.

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.

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.

The NSFAS plays an essential role in providing financial assistance to disadvantaged South African students wishing to further their education. To successfully apply for NSFAS funding for the 2026-2027 academic year, applicants need to meet specific eligibility criteria and gather all the required documents, including identification and proof of income. By understanding these requirements and following the structured application process, students can take a significant step towards securing the support they need to undertake and succeed in their higher education endeavours. Hence, aspiring students should prepare adequately and remain informed about the NSFAS guidelines to maximize their chances of receiving funding.

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

RELATED LINKS: