When Does NSFAS Open For 2026-2027 Application

As the 2026-2027 academic year approaches, prospective applicants eagerly await the announcement regarding the opening dates for the NSFAS applications. Timely application is crucial for students who wish to secure funding, which often forms the backbone of their educational pursuits. The application window for NSFAS tends to follow a set schedule that students should keep in mind. Specifically, the applications for the 2026-2027 academic year are slated to open on September 20, 2025.

Knowing when NSFAS opens for applications is essential for students to prepare their submissions and secure their funding. For the 2026-2027 academic year, it is important to stay informed about NSFAS updates, particularly concerning deadlines and application requirements. Planning can significantly impact students’ chances of receiving aid, as the window for applications is limited.

This essay seeks to clarify the timeline for the 2026-2027 NSFAS applications, providing prospective students with essential information to navigate the application process effectively. By understanding these timelines, students can ensure they complete their applications on time and improve their chances of receiving financial support. Through examining NSFAS’s operational structure, we can better appreciate the impact of timely application submissions on students’ educational journeys.

What is NSFAS?

NSFAS is a government entity under the Department of Higher Education and Training established according to the NSFAS Act (Act 56 of 1999) to financially support disadvantaged students who wish to further their studies at public universities or TVET colleges.

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is the government student bursary and loan scheme that receives its funding budget from, and reports to the Department of Higher Education and Training. The scheme was established under the National Student Financial Aid Scheme Act 56 of 1999.

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.

READ ALSO: Apply For NSFAS Online 2026-2027

What does the bursary cover?

Amounts indicated for accommodation, living allowance, transport and learning materials need to be aligned with the approved latest DHET guidelines.

UNIVERSITY

Accommodation: As per the actual costs charged by the university (costs for private accommodation must not exceed costs for university residence)
Transport (up to 40 km from the institution) R7 500 per annum
Living allowance R15, 000 per annum
Book allowances R5200 per annum
Incidental/personal care allowance of R2900 per annum for students in catered residences

TVET

Accommodation in an urban area is R24,000 per annum
Accommodation in a peri-urban area R18,900 per annum
Accommodation in a rural area is R15,750 per annum
Transport (up to 40 km from the institution) R7,350 per annum
Transport R7000 per annum
Incidental/personal care allowance R2900 per annum

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 opening for the 2026-2027 applications is poised for September 20, 2025, with the closing date on December 15, 2025. During this phase, students must engage proactively in the application process to secure funding that can significantly ease their financial burden while pursuing higher education. The importance of NSFAS in enabling access to education highlights the need for timely and well-prepared applications, reflecting a commitment to academic success. As such, students should remain alert to any further updates from NSFAS, ensuring they are adequately informed and ready to act when the opening date arrives.

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: