Are NSFAS Applications Open For 2026

NSFAS has officially opened its application process for the 2026 academic year. This is great news for South African students who need help paying for their university or college studies. If you’re hoping to get financial support from NSFAS, now is the time to take action and start your application. All qualified students are urged to apply as soon as possible. It’s very necessary to know the opening and closing dates for applications. Submitting your application on time gives you the best chance of getting approved and avoids any issues that may come with late submissions.

NSFAS applications for the 2026 academic year open on September 1, 2025, and close on January 31, 2026. To apply, go to the official NSFAS website. There, you’ll find the online application form. Fill it out carefully with your personal and academic details. You’ll also need to upload a few supporting documents, such as your South African ID, proof of income (for you or your parents/guardians), and your academic records.

These documents help NSFAS decide whether you meet the requirements for financial assistance. Once you have completed everything and uploaded your documents, make sure to submit your application before the deadline. Late applications will not be accepted. Remember, NSFAS funding can help cover your tuition fees, accommodation, learning materials, and even transport. So if you qualify, don’t miss this opportunity.

Learn more: NSFAS How To Apply

Is the NSFAS 2026 Application Portal Open?

The application portal is open and accepting applications from all students across South Africa who are registered or have been accepted in Public universities and TVET Colleges for the 2026 academic year. Below are the application dates for the NSFAS application for TVET Colleges and Universities:

The NSFAS application portal generally opens in September and closes on January 31.
TVET Colleges Trimester 2 and 3 Applications open in May and September, respectively
TVET Colleges Semester 2 Applications open in July

Eligibility for NSFAS funding 2026

To apply for NSFAS funding, you need to meet specific qualification criteria. However, the qualification criteria for NSFAS funding include;

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.

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 online for NSFAS 2026

To apply for NSFAS funding for the 2026 academic year, follow the steps below;

Go to www.nsfas.org.za and click on the ‘myNSFAS’ tab.
Create a myNSFAS account
Click on the ‘APPLY’ tab and complete the sections on the screen
Upload the required supporting documents, where applicable
Click on ‘Submit’

Learn more: NSFAS Online Application 2026

NOTE: If you do not have a digital device or internet connection, do not worry; simply go to your local National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) or Thusong Centre and apply in the same manner.

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#

Higher education is an essential decision in your future, and NSFAS can help qualified South African students gain access to it. To enhance your chances of getting financial assistance, stay educated, fulfill the qualifying requirements, and complete your application on time. Visit the official website of NSFAS for more information.