NSFAS Requirements

NSFAS Requirements

Are you hoping to study further in South Africa but feeling unsure about how you’ll afford the costs? You’re not alone—many students worry about paying for tuition, books, and living expenses. That’s where the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) steps in. NSFAS was created to help students from low-income families get the funding they need to study at public universities and TVET colleges. With this support, you can concentrate on your education instead of stressing over money.

With NSFAS, you don’t have to worry about how you’ll pay for things like tuition fees, textbooks, study materials, meals, transport, or accommodation. All of these costs can be covered, giving you the freedom to focus on your education without the stress of financial pressure. It’s one of the most helpful resources available for students who are serious about their studies but need extra support to make their goals a reality. However, not everyone automatically qualifies for NSFAS. To get this financial help, you need to meet certain requirements.

These include being a South African citizen, coming from a household with an income below a specific amount, and either being accepted to or already studying at a public university or TVET college. You also need to show that you are committed to your education and making good academic progress. Understanding the NSFAS requirements is the first step toward receiving the help you need. Once you meet them, you’re on your way to achieving your academic goals without the heavy burden of student debt.

Read more: NSFAS Who Qualifies

NSFAS Eligibility Requirements for 2026-2027

To qualify for NSFAS, you must meet the following requirements:

• South African citizens or permanent residents
• SASSA grant recipients
• Applicants whose combined gross household income is not more than R350,000 per year
• Persons with disabilities whose combined gross household income is not more than R600,000 per year.
• Must have an email account and cell phone number.

Required Documents For NSFAS 2026-2027

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.

How To Apply For NSFAS 2026-2027

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’

Read more: Who Gets NSFAS

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#

For general, student, and Wallet enquiries

• For all other queries regarding students:
• Tel No.: 08000 67327
• Email: info@nsfas.org.za

Physical Address

• The Halyard, 4 Christiaan Barnard St,
• Cape Town City Centre,
• Cape Town, 8001

You can obtain financial assistance to cover tuition, textbooks, and other required costs if you meet the NSFAS requirements and carefully complete the application process. To make the most of this great opportunity, keep up to current with NSFAS deadlines and rules. Visit the official website of NSFAS for more information. I hope the provided information is helpful. Share your thoughts below in the comment section.

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