When Is Nsfas Application Opening 2026-2027

When Is Nsfas Application Opening 2026-2027

When and How to Apply for NSFAS Funding in 2026-2027:

Aspiring applicants planning to apply for NSFAS funding for the 2026-2027 academic year must importantly know about the official application dates. The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) provides financial assistance to eligible South African students, covering tuition fees, accommodation, and other study-related expenses.

For the 2025 academic year, NSFAS applications have already closed, and no late submissions are allowed. The next opportunity to apply will be in September 2025, when applications open for the 2026-2027 academic cycle. This gives students ample time to prepare the necessary documents and meet the application requirements.

To increase your chances of securing NSFAS funding, it is significant to stay updated on the official opening and closing dates. Missing the deadline could mean waiting another year for financial assistance. Applicants should regularly check the NSFAS website and official social media channels for updates.

This guide will cover everything you need to know about the NSFAS 2026-2027 application process, including eligibility criteria, required documents, and step-by-step instructions on how to apply. For first-time applicants or returning students, understanding the process early will help you submit a successful application on time.

When Is Nsfas Application Opening 2026-2027

• From the 20th of September 2025, Nsfas will be opening its online application portals to receive applications for the 2026-207 academic year. Late applications will not be accepted therefore early submission is encouraged.
• Nsfas will be closing on the 15th of December for applications.

Read: When Nsfas Application Open For 2026-2027

Who Is Qualified To Apply For Nsfas 2026-2027

Below is the list of those who qualify to apply for NSFAS:

• 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.

What Will The NSFAS Bursary Cover For University Students

If you are enrolled in any of the public universities in South Africa, the Nsfas bursary can cover the following:

• 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

Doe The NSFAS Bursary Cover For Tvet College Students

YES, If you are enrolled in any of the public Tvet Colleges in South Africa, the Nsfas bursary can cover the following:

• Accommodation in an urban area is R24,000 per annum
• Accommodation in a peri-urban area is 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

Documents Needed To Apply For Nsfas In 2026-2027

Nsfas applicants are to upload the following documents when applying:

• 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.

Also Read: When Is Nsfas Opening For 2026-2027

Procedure To Follow To Apply For Nsfas For 2026-2027

Follow the below guide to apply for NSFAS bursary:

• Go to the official Website of Nsfas @www.nsfas.org.za
• Click on the myNsfas tab to create an account
• Log in to your account if you already have one
• Click on the Apply tab
• Complete the section that appears on the screen by providing every required information
• Upload the required documents
• Review carefully
• Click on the Submit tab

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 funding is a crucial step for students who need financial assistance for their studies. The NSFAS application window for the 2026-2027 academic year will officially open in September 2025, giving prospective students enough time to prepare and submit their applications. Visit the official Website Of Nsfas For More Details.

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