NSFAS Vulnerable Child Declaration Form 2026

NSFAS Vulnerable Child Declaration Form 2026

Applying for financial aid can be a bit overwhelming, especially for students who don’t have a stable home or family support. That’s why NSFAS, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme, has made special provisions to help those who are most in need. One important document in this process is the NSFAS Vulnerable Child Declaration Form. This form is specifically for students who are under 18 years old and are either orphans or considered vulnerable children.

The form isn’t just another paper to fill out; it serves an important purpose. It helps NSFAS understand the applicant’s situation and confirms that the student doesn’t have a parent or legal guardian who can provide support. This allows NSFAS to consider these special circumstances when reviewing the application for financial aid. By completing the form, vulnerable children have a better chance of accessing the funding they need for university or college.

It acts as an official record that explains the student’s living situation, which is key in making sure help is given where it’s needed most. As the 2026 academic year begins, it’s important that both students and their caregivers understand what this form is for and how to complete it correctly. Doing so ensures that no eligible student is left behind simply because of difficult life circumstances. This form helps open the door to education for many who might otherwise be left out.

Learn more: NSFAS Qualifying Criteria

The NSFAS Vulnerable Child Declaration Form Importance

The vulnerable form plays a very important role. Below are some roles that the form plays;

• Equal chance: The form is an important step in ensuring that all South African students, regardless of financial status, have an equal chance to pursue higher education.
• Financial aid: By completing this form, qualified students can obtain NSFAS financial help, including grants and loans, to pay tuition, housing, and study materials.
• Reducing Inequality: It contributes significantly to alleviating socioeconomic disparities by offering financial assistance to students who would otherwise be unable to pursue higher education.

Who Should Fill Out the Vulnerable Child Declaration Form?

You should complete this form if:

• You are an orphan with no living parents,
• You live with extended family, a foster family, or in a child-headed household,
• Or you can’t give details about your parents’ income because of your family circumstances.

How To Complete the NSFAS Vulnerable Child Declaration Form 2026

It is simple to complete the NSFAS Vulnerable Child Declaration Form; therefore, follow the steps below:

• Get the Form: The form can be obtained from your educational institution or downloaded from the NSFAS website.
• Fill out the Form: Fill out all of the essential information, including personal information, family information, and financial information, with care. Make certain you submit precise and truthful information.
• Attach supporting documents: Include any relevant supporting papers, such as birth certificates, death certificates (if applicable), and evidence of family income.
• Submit the form: As directed, submit the completed form and accompanying documentation to your educational institution or the NSFAS office.
• Keep track of the status of your application and react as soon as possible.

NSFAS Declaration Form PDF Download 2026

• NSFAS 2026 Orphan or Vulnerable Child Declaration form – final
• NSFAS 2026 Declaration Form – final

Eligibility Criteria For NSFAS Funding 2026

• 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.

Learn more: NSFAS Upload Documents

Required Documents To Apply For NSFAS 2026

All applicants are required to upload and submit the following documents;

• 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

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’.

READ: 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#

The NSFAS Vulnerable Child Declaration Form is a lifeline for financially disadvantaged South African students, allowing them to break free from poverty and pursue a higher education. You can get the financial help you need to achieve a better future if you provide accurate information and meet the requirements. Visit the official website of NSFAS for more information.

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