Apply To NSFAS

Apply To NSFAS; NSFAS application 2026

Are you a recent high school graduate in South Africa dreaming of pursuing higher education but worried about the cost? The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is here to help make those dreams a reality.​ NSFAS is a fantastic South African government program designed to offer financial support to students who need it most, ensuring that a lack of funds doesn’t stand in the way of a quality education.

NSFAS offers more than just tuition coverage; it provides comprehensive financial assistance through both loans and bursaries. This means you could receive help with tuition fees, accommodation costs, essential study materials like textbooks, and even a bit of extra support for your expenses. It’s truly designed to ease the financial burden so you can focus on your studies and succeed.

The great news is that applications for NSFAS bursaries are currently open! This is a wonderful opportunity for deserving and qualified South African students to secure the financial aid needed for their tertiary studies. Please note that applications will close on January 31, 2026, so it’s highly recommended to apply as soon as possible to ensure you don’t miss out on this vital support.

Learn more: When Will NSFAS Open For 2026 Application

When to Apply for NSFAS 2026-2027

The NSFAS application window for the forthcoming academic year will commence on September 1, 2025, and close on January 31, 2026. This longer period gives you plenty of time to complete your application and ensure that you don’t lose out on the funding for your study. NSFAS does not accept late applications; therefore, all applications must be submitted before the closing date.

Eligibility Criteria for NSFAS Funding

To be eligible for NSFAS funding, you must meet the following criteria;

• 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.

Who May Not Qualify?

Certain categories of students are generally not eligible for NSFAS funding

• Students who already have a qualification don’t qualify.
• If your household earns more than R350,000 a year, you won’t be eligible.
• If you’ve already applied, been approved, and are receiving NSFAS funding, you don’t need to reapply. You’ll keep getting funding as long as you pass your modules and meet the academic requirements.

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.

How To Apply For NSFAS

Follow the step-by-step guide below to apply for NSFAS.

Follow the process below to apply online for the NSFAS bursaries for 2026-2027:

• Create a profile: Use this link to register for a myNSFAS account: https://my.nsfas.org.za/ or get the NSFAS App from the App Store or Google Play. Your username will be your ID number.
• Apply now: To amend your personal information and upload the supporting documents for your application, click the “Apply” option.
• Complete: Submit your application

Learn more: MyNSFAS Status Check 2026

How to Check Your myNSFAS Application Status

Follow these steps to see how your application is progressing:

Visit the myNSFAS Portal

• Go to www.nsfas.org.za.
• Click the myNSFAS button at the top right of the homepage.

Log In to Your Account

• Enter your email address and password.
• Complete the CAPTCHA to confirm it’s you.
• Click Sign In.

Check Your Application Status

• After logging in, find the Track Application Progress or Application Status tab.
• Click it to see your current status.

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#

The NSFAS application period is from September 1 to January 31, giving students a longer window of opportunity to receive the financial aid they need to pursue higher education. Whether you’re a recent high school graduate or a returning student, NSFAS is here to help you succeed in your education. Visit the official website of NSFAS for more information.

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