Do You Renew NSFAS Every Year?

Many South African students depend on the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) to help cover the cost of their higher education. If you are one of them, you may be unsure whether you have to renew your NSFAS funding each academic year. This is an important question because staying informed about the process can prevent delays or interruptions in receiving your financial aid.

The good news is that once your application has been approved for NSFAS funding, the funding covers you until you complete your qualification, provided you continue to meet the academic progression criteria. When applying for the NSFAS for the first time, students must complete a thorough application process that involves supplying information about their finances, academic credentials, and personal information. However, you must remember that your funding is not guaranteed if you do not maintain satisfactory academic results or fail to update your personal information when required.

Staying proactive and checking your NSFAS status regularly will help you avoid any unexpected issues. If their application is accepted, they will be granted NSFAS money for the length of their studies. Funding is frequently offered throughout the student’s program, whether it be a three-year bachelor’s degree or a one-year certificate program. In this guide, we will clarify whether annual renewal is needed and explain the steps you should follow to keep your funding secure.

Learn more: Is NSFAS Open For 2026?

NSFAS Eligibility Criteria for 2026-2027

To qualify for NSFAS funding 2026-2027, you must meet certain eligibility criteria. The eligibility criteria are provided below;

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.
Must have an email account and cell phone number.

What Does NSFAS Bursary Cover?

NSFAS support will cover the following fees: registration fees, tuition fees, study material expenditures, meal allowance, incidental/personal care, and lodging or transportation.

UNIVERSITY

Accommodation: As per the actual costs charged by the university (costs for private accommodation must not exceed costs for university residence)
Transport (up to 40 km from the institution) R7,500 per annum
Living allowance R15, 000 per annum
Book allowances R5200 per annum
Incidental/personal care allowance of R2900 per annum for students in catered residences

TVET –

Accommodation in an urban area is R24,000 per annum
Accommodation in a peri-urban area is R18,900 per annum
Accommodation in a rural area is R15,750 per annum
Transport (up to 40 km from the institution) R7,350 per annum
Transport R7000 per annum
Incidental/personal care allowance R2900 per annum

Learn more: NSFAS Login Portal

How To Apply For NSFAS 2026