When NSFAS Application Close For 2026

When NSFAS Application Close For 2026

Starting university or college is an exciting step, but for many students in South Africa, figuring out how to pay for it can be stressful. That’s why the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is so important. It provides financial help to students who need support to continue their education after high school. Whether you’re finishing matric or already studying, NSFAS can make a big difference in helping you achieve your goals. NSFAS funding covers more than just your tuition. If you qualify, it can also help with accommodation, transport, food, and learning materials.

This support helps reduce the pressure on both students and their families, making it easier to focus on studying. Each year, NSFAS opens applications for new and returning students. Knowing when to apply is very important. If you miss the application deadline, you could lose the chance to study that year. Although the official dates for the 2026 academic year haven’t been confirmed yet, they are usually shared around September. Based on previous years, the application window stays open until the end of January.

This gives students enough time to prepare all their documents and complete the application properly. Applications are done online through the myNSFAS portal, so you need to pay close attention to details. Any missing or incorrect information can cause delays or rejection. To avoid problems, make sure you stay up to date with all announcements about NSFAS 2026 and apply on time. It’s the first step toward securing your future.

Learn more: NSFAS How To Apply

NSFAS Application Deadline for 2026

NSFAS hasn’t shared the exact closing date for 2026 applications yet, but looking at previous years, applications usually open in September and close by the end of January the following year. So, for the 2026 academic year, students can expect the application period to end around late January 2026.

Eligibility Criteria For NSFAS 2026

To be qualified for NSFAS funding, you must meet the following requirements;

• All South African citizens
• All SASSA grant recipients qualifies 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.

Supporting documents required for NSFAS

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 Funding

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’

Learn more: When Will NSFAS Open For 2026 Application

How to Check Your myNSFAS Application Status

Follow these steps to see how your application is progressing:

Visit the myNSFAS Portal

• Go to www.nsfas.org.za.
• Click the myNSFAS button at the top right of the homepage.

Log In to Your Account

• Enter your email address and password.
• Complete the CAPTCHA to confirm it’s you.
• Click Sign In.

Check Your Application Status

• After logging in, find the Track Application Progress or Application Status tab.
• Click it to see your current status.

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#

For South African students seeking financial support for their education, the NSFAS application deadline is essential. You can receive the funds you need to achieve your academic goals if you apply before the deadline. Visit the official website of NSFAS for more information.

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