NSFAS UNISA

NSFAS UNISA

The University of South Africa, also known as UNISA, is famous for giving people the chance to get a good education without spending too much money. UNISA is unique because it is one of the oldest and largest universities in the world that only offers distance learning. This means students don’t need to attend classes in person. They can study from their homes or anywhere that is convenient for them. This makes it easier for people who have jobs or families to take care of while they are studying.

UNISA cares deeply about helping students succeed and reach their goals. That’s why many students choose it as the place to further their education. Another important part of this journey is the National Student Financial Aid Scheme, known as NSFAS. NSFAS is a program started by the South African government to help students who cannot afford to pay for college or university on their own.

NSFAS gives financial support to students at public universities and TVET colleges, and since UNISA is a public university, its students can apply for this funding. The financial aid can pay for things like tuition fees, learning materials, and sometimes living costs. Together, UNISA and NSFAS make a powerful team. They give thousands of South Africans the chance to learn, improve their skills, and create a better future for themselves and their families, no matter their financial situation.

Learn more: How Often Does NSFAS Fund Unisa Students 2026-2027

NSFAS UNISA Application Opening Date for 2026-2027

The UNISA NSFAS online application portal for the 2026 academic year will open on September 1, 2025, and close on December 2025. If you qualify, you can submit your application during this time to be considered for financial aid. Keep in mind that NSFAS does not accept late applications, so make sure you complete and send in all your documents before the deadline.

Eligibility Criteria for NSFAS Funding at UNISA

Your NSFAS application will not be considered if you;

• South African citizens or permanent residents
• SASSA grant recipients
• Applicants whose combined gross household income is not more than R350,000 per year.
• Persons with disabilities whose combined gross household income is not more than R600,000 per year.

Supporting documents required for NSFAS

NSFAS needs information to confirm the employment and income of an applicant’s parents, guardians, or spouse.

• NSFAS Declaration Form: completed by the school principal or social worker. (Non-SASSA only)
• Orphan and Vulnerable Child Declaration Form: completed by a social worker for applicants under 18. (Non-SASSA only)
• NSFAS Consent Form: signed by the applicant and/or parent, guardian, or spouse. (Not needed for SASSA recipients)
• If the applicant has a legal guardian, court-issued proof is required.
• For non-court-appointed guardians, submit the NSFAS Declaration Form.

UNISA NSFAS Registration

Please visit the Unisa registration website for the registration dates: www.unisa.ac.za/register

• Visit the NSFAS official website: https://www.nsfas.org.za/
• Create a myNSFAS profile
• Complete all required information
• Submit your application

Learn more: What Does NSFAS Cover For Unisa Students

How Are NSFAS Allowances Paid?

Unisa NSFAS allowance may be paid through the following;

• NSFAS allowances are paid by the NSFAS service provider, COINVEST.
• Coinvest will send communication to students to onboard/register to receive their allowances.
• Students are required to onboard/register on the co-invest platform to receive the NSFAS MasterCard and digital money account.

UNISA Contact Details

Student enquiries

• 0800 00 1870
• Contact details for student assistance and service Ethics Hotline
  0800 075 278
• unisa@thehotline.co.za

Visit us

• Main campus:
Preller Street, Muckleneuk Ridge, Pretoria
• Sunnyside campus (applications, registrations & learning centre):
  Cnr Justice Mahomed & Steve Biko Streets, Sunnyside, Pretoria
  Regional offices

Contact NSFAS

NSFAS Virtual Contact Centre

We are available to assist through the following channels:

• Email: info@nsfas.org.za
• Facebook: National Student Financial Aid Scheme
• Twitter: @myNSFAS
• Instagram: @myNSFAS
• WhatsApp: +27 78 519 8006
• USSD:*120*67327#

Physical Address

• The Halyard, 4 Christiaan Barnard St,
• Cape Town City Centre,
• Cape Town, 8001

Visit the official website of NSFAS for more information. I hope the provided information is helpful. Share your thoughts below in the comment section.

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