NSFAS Bursary Requirements 2026/2027

NSFAS Bursary Requirements 2026/2027

The NSFAS bursary requirements for 2026/2027 are designed to help South African students get financial support to study at public universities and TVET colleges. NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme) offers bursaries to learners who need help paying for their tuition and other study-related costs, making education more accessible for many students. To qualify for the NSFAS bursary in 2026/2027, you need to meet a few important criteria. First, you have to be a South African citizen or a permanent resident. The bursary is mainly for students from families with a combined annual income of R350,000 or less. If the student has a disability, the income limit goes up to R600,000.

You also need to be studying full-time at a public university or TVET college – part-time and distance learning usually don’t qualify. Another important thing is to have finished Grade 12 (Matric) or be in the final year and planning to study further. When you apply, NSFAS will ask for certain documents. These include a certified copy of your ID or permanent residence permit, your latest school results (or university transcripts if you have already started), proof that you have applied to or been accepted by a public university or TVET college, and proof of your family’s income.

This proof can be pay slips, affidavits, or documents showing social grants. It’s also important for your parent or guardian to permit NSFAS to check your household income. Applying for the bursary is free and done online on the myNSFAS portal. Keep an eye on the application dates each year, as missing the deadline means you can’t apply for that study period. If successful, the bursary usually covers tuition, accommodation, study materials, and sometimes even transport and meals. This makes it easier for students from low-income households to focus on their studies without worrying about money.

Learn more: NSFAS Bursary Application Form 2026 PDF

NSFAS Bursary Requirements for 2026-2027

To be considered for an NSFAS bursary, you must meet certain eligibility criteria. The general requirements for NSFAS bursary are listed below;

• Must be a South African citizen / permanent resident
• Combined gross household income should not exceed R350 000 per annum
• Combined gross household income (persons living with disabilities) should not exceed R600,000 per annum
• SASSA recipients automatically qualify for financial eligibility
• Must have email and cell phone number

Required Documents To Apply for NSFAS Bursary

All applicants must provide the following documents to apply for NSFAS bursary;

• All applicants must provide a copy of their ID. A temporary ID issued by the Department of Home Affairs will be accepted.
• Non-SASSA applicants must provide ID copies of parent/s, legal guardian/guardian, or spouse.
•  Smart ID cards: A copy with both sides of the smart ID must be provided.
• Proof of income: The applicant and/or parents/legal guardian/spouse (where applicable (non-SASSA) should provide the latest payslip not older than 3 months, UIF letter, appointment letter, retrenchment letter (applicant and/or parent(s), legal guardian/spouse)
• Passports/Driver’s licenses will not be accepted as proof of ID.

 Apply Online for NSFAS Bursary

Follow the steps below to check the status of your application.

• Visit the NSFAS official website at www.nsfas.org.za.
• Click on “MyNSFAS account” at the top right menu of the page
• Enter your username or ID number and password
• Then, you click the “SIGN IN” button.
• Click on “Track Funding Progress.”
• Upon successful login, your application status will appear on the screen.

Learn more: NSFAS Loan Or Bursary 2026

NSFAS Contact Details

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#

The NSFAS bursary program is a refuge for many South African students who want to go to university but can’t afford it. You can boost your chances of getting financial support for your educational ambitions by meeting the NSFAS bursary requirements and following the application procedure properly. Visit the official NSFAS website for more information.

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