How Many Students Does NSFAS Fund 2026/2027

How Many Students Does NSFAS Fund 2026/2027

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is one of the most essential programs helping students in South Africa get a chance at higher education. It gives monetary help to students from poor and working-class families, making it possible for them to study at universities and TVET colleges. Without NSFAS, many of these students would not be able to afford the high costs of tuition, accommodation, books, and other study materials.

As the 2026/2027 academic year draws near, many students and parents are asking: How many students will NSFAS help this time? Over the past few years, the number of students funded by NSFAS has been growing steadily. This shows that the government is serious about making education accessible and affordable for all. NSFAS does more than just pay school fees. It covers a wide range of costs to make sure students can focus on their studies without worrying too much about money.

More students, especially those attending TVET colleges, have been included in the funding, which helps more young people gain valuable skills for the future. Looking ahead to 2026/2027, NSFAS is expected to support even more students than before. This is good news for many young South Africans who dream of getting a better education and improving their lives. The growth in funding shows that education remains a priority in South Africa and continues to be a key tool for building a better, more equal society.

Learn more: How Much Does NSFAS Pay For Accommodation 2026?

Who Qualifies for NSFAS Funding?

NSFAS funding is available to South African citizens who meet the following requirements:

• All South African citizens
• All SASSA grant recipients qualify for funding
• Applicants whose combined household income is not more than R350,000 per annum
• Person with disability: Combined household income must not be more than R600,000 per annum
• Students who started studying before 2018, whose household income is not more than R122,000 per annum.

What NSFAS Covers for 2026-2027

NSFAS funding covers various aspects of a student’s educational expenses, including;

• Tuition Fees: NSFAS pays the whole tuition cost for qualifying students, allowing them to register for classes without financial restraints.
• Accommodation: The plan also provides financial support for accommodation for students, easing one of the biggest financial burdens connected with higher education.
• Book Allowance: NSFAS provides book allowances to students to assist them in purchasing required study materials.
• Living Allowance: Qualified students are provided with a living stipend to help with day-to-day expenses while studying.

How to Create A myNSFAS Account

Follow the detailed guide below to create your MyNSFAS account.

• Go to https://www.nsfas.org.za/ and click REGISTER. Consent to NSFAS confirming your information with third-party sources by checking the relevant box when consent is requested.

(This will enable NSFAS to check your details against Home Affairs. The student must check and verify that the information given is correct.

•  Fill out all of the required fields and upload a copy of your ID.
  To complete the account registration, click submit. On the cellphone and email address you supplied, you will get a message with a one-time PIN.
•  Enter the One Time Pin and press the Submit button.
  A confirmation message will be issued to the student to confirm the creation of the profile.

Learn more: NSFAS Funded Colleges

Click here for the NSFAS student fund PDF

Contact NSFAS

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

NSFAS is very helpful in ensuring that all students in South Africa have access to higher education, regardless of their financial situation. The program’s commitment to paying hundreds of thousands of students each year has a tremendous influence on individual lives as well as the future of the country.  Visit the official website of NSFAS for more information.

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