When NSFAS Application Close For 2026

If you’re thinking about going to university or a TVET college in South Africa, and you need help paying for your studies, NSFAS could be the answer. The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) gives financial help to students from low-income households so they can further their higher education. But to get this assistance, you need to apply, and apply on time. One of the most important things to know is the closing date for NSFAS applications for the 2026-2027 academic year. If you miss the deadline, you may not get the funding you need, which could affect your plans to study.

The NSFAS application window will open on September 1, 2025, and will close on January 31, 2026, for the 2026 academic year. This deadline applies to students applying to universities and those planning to start at a TVET college in the first trimester.

However, if you’re applying to a TVET college, keep in mind that they often accept new students in trimesters or semesters, and each intake might have a different NSFAS deadline. That’s why it’s a good idea to also check the dates with the college where you want to study. Make sure you prepare all your documents early and keep an eye on updates from NSFAS. Applying on time gives you the best chance to receive the financial aid you need for your studies.

Learn more: When Will NSFAS Open For 2026 Application

NSFAS Application Deadlines for 2026

The main time to apply for NSFAS funding for the 2026/2027 school year starts on September 1, 2025, and ends on January 31, 2026. It’s important for everyone who wants to get funding, whether you’re applying for the first time or renewing your support. If you miss this deadline, your application will be rejected, and you will have to reapply the following year. As a result, applying early is advised, as NSFAS will not accept late applications for the 2026 academic year.

Eligibility for 2026 NSFAS Funding

To be qualified for NSFAS funding for the 2026 academic year, you must meet the following criteria;

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.

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.

Steps to Apply For NSFAS Funding 2026

Follow the gradual guide below to apply online for NSFAS for the 2025 academic year.

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’.

Learn more: NSFAS Bursary Application Form 2026 PDF

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.

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.

Contact NSFAS

Email: info@nsfas.org.za
Facebook: National Student Financial Aid Scheme
Twitter: @myNSFAS
Instagram: @myNSFAS
WhatsApp: +27 78 519 8006
USSD:*120*67327#

It is vital to keep you informed and begin the application process as soon as possible to meet the NSFAS 2026 application deadline. Stay up-to-date on any changes or updates to the application requirements, and contact NSFAS or your educational institution if you have any questions or concerns. Visit the official NSFAS website for more information.

RELATED LINKS

NSFAS Form 2026 PDF Download