NSFAS Qualifying Criteria

NSFAS Qualifying Criteria

NSFAS helps students in South Africa who don’t have enough money to pay for their higher education. But to receive this support, you need to meet certain requirements, known as the NSFAS qualifying criteria. First, you must be a South African citizen or a permanent resident. Then, your family’s yearly income is taken into account. If you want a bursary, your household income must be R350,000 or less before any deductions. If your family earns more than that but less than R600,000, you may qualify for a loan. If you have a disability, your household income must not go over R600,000.

Other important factors include how well you’ve done in school and whether you’ve been accepted or are currently studying at a public university or TVET college supported by NSFAS. You also need to submit your application on time and make sure all your personal and academic details are filled in correctly.

NSFAS also looks at whether you’ve received funding from them before. If you already got NSFAS funding, you can still be supported as long as you’re doing well in your studies and meeting their rules. Students who are part of vulnerable groups, such as those receiving social grants, may be given extra attention during the selection process. These rules are in place to make sure that the financial support goes to students who need it most, so they can get a fair chance to study and build a better future.

Learn more: NSFAS Qualifying Students 2026-2027

NSFAS Qualifying Criteria for 2026-2027

It is important to understand the NSFAS qualifying criteria and eligibility requirements to gain from the NSFAS program. The general qualifying criteria are provided below;

Citizenship or Permanent Residency in South Africa.

• The primary condition for NSFAS eligibility is South African citizenship or permanent residency in the nation.
• This stipulation guarantees that the monies will be used to support the education of South African students who require financial help. NSFAS Qualifying Criteria

Financial Needs State:

• NSFAS is intended to assist students in financial hardship. To be eligible, you must pass a means test that evaluates your family’s income and financial circumstances.
• This evaluation assists in determining the amount of financial aid you are eligible for. The lower your family’s income, the more likely you are to receive NSFAS support.

Academic Achievement

• When reviewing NSFAS applicants, academic achievement is also considered.
• While there are no hard and fast rules, candidates should exhibit a dedication to their studies and demonstrate that they are making adequate academic progress.

Eligibility for the Program and the Institution

• NSFAS funding is largely aimed at students seeking undergraduate or National Diploma credentials at South African public institutions and TVET colleges.
• As a result, it is critical to confirm that your selected program and school are NSFAS-eligible.

Disability or Vulnerable Group Status

• Students with disabilities and those from disadvantaged groups are given special consideration.
• These individuals may be eligible for additional benefits and assistance through NSFAS.

Acceptance Letters from Universities/Colleges

• When applying for a bursary, you must present confirmation of acceptance or initial acceptance to a recognized public university or TVET college in South Africa. NSFAS Qualifying Criteria

Supporting documents required for NSFAS

• Upload your application supporting documents. Upload the following documents;
• Copy of student ID / Birth certificate
• Copy of parent/s or guardian/ spouse ID
• Smart card: both sides of the card are required
• Proof of income (where applicable)
• Persons living with disability (Disability Annexure A form)
• An applicant who is recognised as a vulnerable child by the Department of Social Development must provide a completed Vulnerable Child Declaration form completed by a social worker
• An applicant who has indicated that s/he has no family member details and or abridged birth certificate must complete the Declaration: Non-SASSA.

Learn more: NSFAS Check Status

 Apply for NSFAS 2026

Follow the steps below to apply for NSFAS funding 2026.

• Create a myNSFAS account via this link: https://my.nsfas.org.za/.
• Provide Your ID number and your username.
• Click on the ‘Apply’ tab to update your personal information
• Submit your application.

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 is an excellent resource for South African students looking for financial aid for their higher education. Understanding and achieving the NSFAS qualifying requirements is critical to obtaining the financial assistance you require to accomplish your academic ambitions. Visit the official NSFAS website for more information.

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