How Many Years Does NSFAS Cover 2026

How Many Years Does NSFAS Cover 2026

If you’re thinking about applying for NSFAS in 2026 or you’re already receiving funding, you might be asking yourself, “How many years will NSFAS support me?” This is a very important question, especially when planning your studies and making sure you have the financial help you need to complete your qualification. NSFAS is a government program that helps many South African students pay for university or TVET college. It covers things like tuition fees, accommodation, transport, food, and learning materials.

But NSFAS doesn’t fund students forever. There are specific rules about how long you can be supported, and one of the main rules is called the N+ Rule. The N+ Rule means NSFAS will pay for the minimum number of years your course takes (N), plus one extra year (+1) in case you repeat a year or face academic challenges. So, if your degree is supposed to take 3 years, NSFAS can fund you for up to 4 years.

But to keep your funding, you must pass most of your subjects and keep up with your academic progress. Students with disabilities or those in certain programs may have special conditions, and NSFAS takes that into account too. Knowing how long NSFAS covers you is key to planning your studies wisely. This guide will explain everything you need to know so you can stay focused and make the most of your funding in 2026 and beyond.

Learn more: Who Does NSFAS Cover

Eligibility Criteria for NSFAS Funding in 2026

To be eligible for NSFAS funding in 2026, applicants must meet specific financial and academic criteria;

• All South African citizens
• All SASSA grant recipients qualifies 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.

How Many Years Does NSFAS Cover 2026

How To Maintain Your NSFAS Funding

The following factors must be considered to continue receiving NSFA funding;

Academic Progress:

• In order to keep NSFAS funding, students must typically achieve the minimum academic performance standards.
• Failure to meet these criteria may result in NSFAS assistance being suspended or withdrawn.

Course period:

• Typically, the period of coverage is connected to the normal term of your selected program.
• If your program is longer than usual for academic reasons, NSFAS may not fund the extra years.

Qualification of Study:

• NSFAS is primarily concerned with undergraduate qualifications.
• Postgraduate students seeking master’s or doctoral degrees may be disqualified from NSFAS funding.

Reapplication:

• Students must typically reapply for NSFAS support each year.
• The continuation of assistance is subject to your qualifications and the availability of funds.

Financial Qualification:

• NSFAS gives preference to students from low-income families.
• Your family’s financial position determines your qualification for assistance.

Bursaries/Loans:

• Some NSFAS funds are offered as a bursary (non-repayable), while others may be in the form of a loan, which must be returned after your studies are over.

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.

Learn more: How Much Is NSFAS Money 2026

How To Apply For NSFAS Funding 2026

Follow the steps below to complete the NSFAS application;

• Visit the official website of NSFAS at: www.nsfas.org.za
• 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’.

NSFAS Contact  Details

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

NSFAS coverage normally lasts for the three to four years required to earn an undergraduate degree, which is the industry standard. To continue receiving NSFAS funding, students must maintain academic progress, reapply yearly, and fulfill other qualification conditions. Visit the official website of NSFAS for more information.

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