How NSFAS Assist Students 2026

How NSFAS Assist Students 2026

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) helps make higher education possible for many South African students, especially those who don’t have the money to pay for university or college on their own. NSFAS will continue to support eligible students who are accepted to public universities and TVET colleges. This support includes paying for tuition and registration fees, which can be very expensive. On top of that, NSFAS also provides extra allowances to help cover daily living costs. These allowances can be used for accommodation, transport, books, study materials, and personal care items.

This financial help makes a big difference. Students can focus on their studies without having to stress about money or how they will pay for things like rent and textbooks. It gives them the freedom to study with peace of mind and aim for good results.

NSFAS also offers support with the application process. Students can apply online, and NSFAS guides who qualify and what documents are needed. Once accepted, students continue to receive help throughout their time at college or university. Each year, thousands of students benefit from this programme. For many, NSFAS is the reason they can study and plan for a better future. In 2026, the scheme will continue to be a lifeline for those who need financial support to achieve their dreams. With NSFAS, education becomes more affordable, and opportunities become more equal for all.

Learn more: How NSFAS Help Students 2026

What Does NSFAS Fund Conceal?

NSFAS funds cover a variety of expenditures associated with higher education. NSFAS funds are typically used to pay for:

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 Colleges

• 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.

Who qualifies for NSFAS  funding in 2026?

NSFAS provides funding for qualified students who meet the qualified criteria for the fund. To qualify for NSFAS assistance, students typically need to 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.

How To Apply For NSFAS Funding 2026

The application procedure is simple and straightforward and can be done from the comfort of your home, provided you meet the qualification criteria and have in possession all supporting documents. Follow the steps below to apply;

• 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’

Learn more: NSFAS Helpline

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 not only helps individual students, but it also helps to shape a more equal and prosperous South Africa for all. If you want to pursue higher education but are limited by finances, NSFAS may be the key to unlocking your potential and realizing your aspirations. Visit the official NSFAS website for more information.

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