How NSFAS Work At Unisa 2026

How NSFAS Work At Unisa 2026

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government-funded program in South Africa that helps students who can’t afford to pay for their higher education. Its main goal is to make education more affordable and accessible, especially for students from low-income households. NSFAS offers financial help through bursaries and loans that cover important costs like tuition fees, learning materials, and even living expenses.

UNISA, which stands for the University of South Africa, is the largest open distance learning institution on the continent. It gives students the opportunity to study from anywhere, which is especially helpful for those who can’t attend classes in person. UNISA welcomes a wide range of students, making higher education more flexible and accessible. NSFAS works closely with UNISA to ensure that qualifying students get the financial support they need to succeed in their studies.

If you’re a UNISA student and need financial help, you must apply directly to NSFAS during their application period. The application can be completed online on the NSFAS website, where you’ll also find clear instructions and requirements. It’s very important to apply on time, as late applications are usually not accepted. Before you apply, make sure you meet the eligibility criteria. Once approved, NSFAS will cover your educational costs, making it easier for you to focus on your studies without worrying about money.

Learn more: How NSFAS Work

Who Qualifies for NSFAS at UNISA?

To be funded by NSFAS in 2026, a UNISA student 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.

What Does NSFAS Cover at UNISA?

The University of South Africa’s (UNISA) National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) provides financial aid to eligible students to help cover different educational expenditures. UNISA’s NSFAS grant normally covers the following expenses:

Prescribed Study Materials:

• NSFAS may also pay for prescribed study materials such as textbooks and other course materials.
• Access to these resources is critical for academic achievement, and NSFAS guarantees that you can get them without breaking the bank.

Accommodation and food:

• In some circumstances, NSFAS may cover the costs of lodging and food. This is, however, subject to specified conditions and availability.
• Students who are qualified for accommodation and Meal allowances are frequently subject to extra conditions based on their financial situation and the distance they reside from the campus.

Tuition fees:

• For qualifying students, NSFAS normally covers the full cost of tuition. This implies that UNISA will pay the costs for your academic courses or programs on your behalf.
• This is a huge advantage because tuition costs are one of the most important expenses for those pursuing higher education. How NSFAS Work At Unisa 2026

Transportation:

• NSFAS may provide transportation support to students who fulfill the qualification requirements.
• This support might assist in paying the cost of traveling to and from UNISA’s campuses or study centers.

Personal Care Payment:

• Students with impairments or unique medical requirements may be qualified for personal care payments from NSFAS.
• This allowance is designed to support students in paying their extra care-related expenditures.

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: NSFAS Unisa Allowances 2026

How to Apply for NSFAS at UNISA

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 at UNISA is a lifeline for South African students who want to go to university. You can get the financial support that can drive you toward your academic objectives if you are conscious of how NSFAS operates and fulfill the qualification criteria. UNISA and NSFAS are committed to ensuring that no qualified student is denied the chance to excel due to a lack of funds. Visit the official website of NSFAS for more information.

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