NSFAS Bursaries 2026/2027

NSFAS Bursaries 2026/2027

As the 2026-2027 academic year draws near, NSFAS is once again offering bursaries that can truly change students’ lives. These bursaries come from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme in South Africa. The main goal is to help students from low-income households afford the costs of higher education so that money doesn’t stand in the way of their dreams. NSFAS bursaries cover a wide range of expenses that students face when they go to college or university.

They pay for tuition fees, which are often the biggest cost, as well as accommodation for students who need a place to stay while studying. On top of that, they help with buying textbooks, learning materials, and other essentials needed for success. To qualify for this funding, students must meet certain requirements. Generally, applicants need to show that their household income falls below a set limit, proving that they need financial assistance.

They also have to meet academic criteria to demonstrate that they are committed to their education and able to keep up with their studies. Applying for an NSFAS bursary is done online through the NSFAS website. Students are encouraged to gather all the necessary documents and submit their applications on time. This financial support can lift a huge burden off students’ shoulders, making it possible for them to focus fully on their studies and build a better future.

Learn more: NSFAS Bursaries For 2026

NSFAS Bursary Eligibility Criteria for 2026-2027

• 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 The NSFAS Bursary Cover?

Funded by the government, NSFAS supports eligible students with the costs of studying at public universities and TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) institutions. Amounts indicated for accommodation, living allowance, transport, and learning materials need to be aligned with the latest approved DHET guidelines.

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.

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.

NSFAS Bursaries 2026/2027

Learn more: Who Does NSFAS Cover

 Apply For NSFAS 2026-2027

NSFAS applications are done online on the official website of the agency during the application period. Follow the steps below to apply for NSFAS 2026;

• 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’.

NSFAS Contact Details

NSFAS Virtual Contact Centre

We are available to assist through the following channels:

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

NSFAS Bursaries for the 2026-2027 academic year are a lifesaver for students who want to study in South Africa. NSFAS ensures that financial constraints do not stand in the way of your aspirations by providing complete financial support that includes tuition, accommodation, allowances, and more. Visit the official website of NSFAS for more information. I hope the provided information is helpful. Share your thoughts below in the comment section.

RELATED LINKS