When Is Nsfas Opening For 2026 Applications

When Is Nsfas Opening For 2026 Applications

NSFAS 2026: Important Dates and How to Apply for Financial Aid:

For South African students seeking financial assistance for higher education, knowing when NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme) opens for applications in 2026 is essential. NSFAS provides funding for eligible students pursuing studies at public universities and TVET colleges. The 2026 NSFAS application window will officially open on September 20, 2025, and close on December 15, 2025. It is important to mark these dates in your calendar to ensure that you do not miss the opportunity to apply for financial support.

To be eligible for NSFAS funding, applicants must meet specific requirements. All South African citizens and permanent residents are eligible, but for a bursary, the combined household income must not exceed R350,000 per year before deductions. If applying for a loan, the combined household income should fall between R350,000 and R600,000 per year before deductions. Additionally, applicants with disabilities can qualify for NSFAS funding if their combined household income is R600,000 or less per year before deductions.

During the application period, students must visit the official NSFAS website and log in to the myNSFAS portal to begin the process. It is important to ensure that all necessary documents are submitted and that the application is completed before the deadline. With these details in mind, students can better prepare for the NSFAS application process and increase their chances of securing the financial support needed for their studies in 2026.

When Is Nsfas Opening For 2026 Applications

• 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 The Opening Date For Nsfas 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 Will Nsfas Application Open 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

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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