NSFAS Unisa Second Semester 2026

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) accepts applications for Unisa’s second semester, giving students a helpful opportunity to access funding for the rest of the academic year. This second-semester intake at the University of South Africa (Unisa) is ideal for students who couldn’t apply or register earlier in the year, or for those who want to add more subjects to their course. Unisa’s flexible study system allows students to register twice a year.

This means that if you missed the first semester or need to catch up on modules, you still have a chance to continue your studies without waiting an entire year. NSFAS supports this by offering financial aid to eligible students who register during this period. To qualify for NSFAS funding, you must be a South African citizen, studying at an approved public institution like Unisa, and come from a household with a combined annual income of R350,000 or less. Students with disabilities and those who receive social grants may also qualify.

NSFAS covers more than just tuition. It also includes allowances for learning materials, transport, and living costs (depending on your needs and type of study). If you plan to study in the second semester of 2026 at Unisa and need financial support, don’t miss the chance to apply for NSFAS. It’s a valuable resource that helps many students achieve their educational goals.

Learn more: NSFAS For Second Semester 2026

NSFAS Unisa Second Semester Date for 2026

All students whose applications for 2026 NSFAS funding have been approved may register during Unisa’s semester 2 registration period, which opened between August and October 2025. Prospective applicants are urged to submit their applications before the closing date. Late applications will not be considered for the second semester.

Who Qualifies for NSFAS in the Second Semester?

To be considered for NSFAS funding for the Unisa Second Semester, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria. All applicants must meet the following requirements:

Must be a South African citizen / permanent resident.
Combined gross household income should not exceed R350 000 per annum.
SASSA recipients automatically qualify for financial eligibility.
To qualify, you need to be registered for an approved undergraduate course at Unisa.
If you’re a first-time student, you also need to meet the academic requirements to be accepted.

What Does NSFAS Cover for Unisa Students?

At Unisa, NSFAS gives students allowances instead of paying tuition directly. These allowances usually cover things like:

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 institution) R7 500 per annum
Living allowance R15, 000 per annum
Book allowances R5200 per annum
Incidental/personal care allowance R2900 per annum for students in catered residences

Documents Required To Apply for NSFAS 2026

The following documents are required to apply for NSFAS;

All applicants must provide a copy of their ID. A temporary ID issued by the Department of Home Affairs will be accepted.
Non-SASSA applicants must provide ID copies of parent/s, legal guardian/guardian, or spouse.
Smart ID cards: a copy with both sides of the smart ID must be provided.
Proof of income: The applicant and/or parents/legal guardian/spouse (where applicable (non-SASSA) should provide the latest payslip not older than 3 months, UIF letter, appointment letter, retrenchment letter (applicant and/or parent(s), legal guardian/spouse)
Passports/Driver’s licenses will not be accepted as proof of ID.

Learn more: Do I Have To Apply For NSFAS Every Semester?

Apply For NSFAS Second Semester At UNISA 2026

Applications are done online on the NSFAS website: www.nsfas.org.za. The application process is straightforward. Follow the steps below to apply.

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 required supporting documents where applicable
Click on ‘Submit. ’

How Are NSFAS UNISA Allowances Paid?

The NSFAS Allowance is paid through the following method:

NSFAS allowances are paid by the NSFAS service provider COINVEST.
Coinvest will send communication to students to onboard/register to receive their allowances.
Students are required to onboard/register on the co-invest platform to receive the NSFAS MasterCard and digital money account.

NSFAS Contact Details

NSFAS Virtual Contact Centre

We are available to assist through the following channels: