When Is Nsfas Opening For 2026-2027
When Is Nsfas Opening For 2026-2027
NSFAS 2026 Application Window: When and How to Apply for Funding:
For South African students looking for financial aid to pursue higher education, it is essential to know when NSFAS will begin accepting applications for 2026. NSFAS offers funding to eligible students attending public universities and TVET colleges. The 2026 NSFAS application period will open on September 20, 2025, and close on December 15, 2025. Marking these dates is vital to ensure you don’t miss the opportunity to apply for financial assistance.
To qualify for NSFAS funding, applicants must meet certain criteria. South African citizens and permanent residents are eligible, but for a bursary, the combined household income must not exceed R350,000 annually before deductions. For a loan, the household income must fall between R350,000 and R600,000 per year before deductions. Additionally, students with disabilities can apply for NSFAS funding if their combined household income is R600,000 or less per year before deductions.
During the application window, students must visit the official NSFAS website and log in to the myNSFAS portal to start their application. It is essential to ensure all required documents are submitted and the application is completed before the deadline. By following these steps, students can better prepare for the application process and improve their chances of securing the necessary financial support for their 2026 studies.
When Is Nsfas Opening For 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 Is Nsfas Opening For 2026 Applications
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 The Opening Date For Nsfas 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
NSFAS provides funding based on specific eligibility criteria, including household income limits. Whether you are applying for a bursary or loan, make sure to gather all the necessary documents, follow the application steps carefully, and submit your application on time. Visit the Official Website Of Nsfas For More Details
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