What Is The Closing Date Of NSFAS For 2026?

What Is The Closing Date Of NSFAS For 2026?

If you’re planning to study at a university or TVET college in 2026 and need financial support, NSFAS is inviting all qualified students to apply for financial help for the 2026-2027 academic year. NSFAS, which stands for the National Student Financial Aid Scheme, helps thousands of South African students each year by covering the cost of their tuition, accommodation, meals, books, and more. But to benefit from this funding, you must apply on time, and that means knowing the exact closing date for applications. NSFAS applications are normally accepted several months before the start of the academic year. This gives prospective students plenty of time to gather the necessary documentation and submit their applications.

However, it is important to be informed of the closing date to prevent losing this important assistance. NSFAS is a government-funded organization whose mission is to make higher education available to financially disadvantaged South African students. It offers financial aid in the form of bursaries and loans to qualified applicants. NSFAS is expected to open applications around September 2025 and close them in January 2026. While these are the typical timelines, the exact dates can change from year to year, so it’s a good idea to regularly check the official NSFAS website for updates.

Missing the application deadline means you won’t be considered for funding, no matter how good your reasons are. That’s why it’s so important to keep an eye on the closing date and start your application early. This gives you enough time to gather your documents, complete your online form, and fix any problems before the deadline arrives. In this complete guide, we’ll break down when the NSFAS 2026 applications are expected to close and how you can make sure your application is submitted on time. Whether you’re a new applicant or returning student, applying early gives you the best chance of getting the support you need to continue your academic journey.

Read more: NSFAS Supporting Documents 2026/2027

NSFAS 2026 Application Dates

The NSFAS application portal opens in September 2025 and closes on January 31, 2026; therefore, applications must be submitted before the closing date. Late applications will not be considered for the 2026-2027 academic year. The application closing date is very important to all applicants who need financial assistance for the 2026 academic year.

Eligibility Criteria for NSFAS Funding 2026

All applicants must meet certain eligibility criteria. The eligibility criteria are provided below;

• You must be a South African citizen
• You must be studying or intend to study towards an undergraduate qualification in 2026
• You must be studying or intend to study at a public tertiary institution within South Africa (a University or TVET College)
• You must have satisfactory academic records
• You must NOT have completed any previous qualifications
• You must be in a state of financial need.

What NSFAS Funding Covers

NSFAS helps students by paying for important things needed for their studies. NSFAS usually covers your;

• Tuition fees
• Books
• Accommodation
• Meals
• Transport

Required Documents for NSFAS Application 2026

Certified copies of the following documents must be uploaded to apply for NSFAS in 2026;

• A certified copy of your ID document or birth certificate
• Proof of income for yourself and your parents or guardians, such as salary slips or an affidavit
• A certified copy of your latest academic results or a statement of results
• A letter of acceptance from the tertiary institution you will be attending
• A completed and signed NSFAS bursary application form
• Retrenchment letter
• Death certificate/s
• Divorce Decree
• Proof of legal guardianship
• Marriage certificate

Read more: NSFAS Application 2026 Closing Date

How to Apply for NSFAS 2026

The NSFAS application process is done online on the official website of the agency. Follow these steps to submit your application for NSFAS funding:

• Visit the NSFAS portal at https://www.nsfas.org.za/
• Select the “Create an account” tab, where you will be required to fill in your ID number, first and last name, email address, contact number, and your selected password
• You will then be required to validate your account and the information you have provided
• After creating your account, you can select the “Login” tab and log in by filling in your ID number and password.
• Fill in all the required information and upload your supporting documents.
• Submit your application before the closing date.

Contact NSFAS

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#

Higher education is an essential component of both personal and national development. Remember that applying early and fulfilling all conditions are critical stages in obtaining NSFAS financing for your studies. Visit the official website of NSFAS for more information.

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