When Will NSFAS Open For 2026

Access to financial aid through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) plays a vital role in helping South African students attend university or a TVET college. One question that often comes up is, “When will NSFAS open for 2026?” Knowing the application dates is key for students who want to secure funding in time for their studies. NSFAS usually opens its application portal each year several months before the new academic year begins. While the exact 2026 dates haven’t been announced yet, applications typically start around September of the previous year and stay open into the early months of the academic year.

This timeline allows students enough time to prepare and submit all the required documents. Applying early is highly recommended because late applications may be delayed or even rejected, which could mean losing out on important financial support. The application process requires students to provide personal details, proof of their financial status, and academic information, so it’s important to gather these documents ahead of time.

To stay informed, students should regularly visit the official NSFAS website or follow trusted news sources for updates on when the 2026 application window will open. Being proactive and ready to apply as soon as possible can make a big difference in securing the funding needed to pursue higher education goals with confidence.

Learn more: When Will NSFAS Open For 2026 Application

NSFAS 2026 Application Opening and Closing Dates

The NSFAS online application for the 2026 academic year is likely to open on September 1, 2025, and close on January 31, 2026. Although this closing date is not yet confirmed and is based on information from online sources, it’s a good idea to apply as early as possible. This helps you avoid last-minute problems or missing the deadline.

Eligibility Criteria For NSFAS Funding 2026

To qualify for NSFAS funding, you need to meet specific criteria. Below are the general requirements for 2026;

Only South African citizens are eligible for this bursary scheme.
A student must be registered or intending to register on a PLP, NC(V), or Report 191 programme at any of the fifty (50) public TVET Colleges in South Africa;
Must need financial assistance (NSFAS will determine whether or not a student meets the financial eligibility criteria);
Returning students must demonstrate proven and accepted academic performance (academically deserving) in line with the College’s progression policy or the progression prescriptions of the Bursary Rules and Guidelines (whichever is higher);
Must not be enrolling for a qualification that duplicates previous learning that was state-funded; and
Applicants will qualify if they fall within the maximum threshold of up to R350,000 of combined gross family income per annum and have been admitted/received a firm offer for enrolment in a College.

What NSFAS Will Pay In 2026

Registration & Tuition Fees
Personal Care Allowance
Transport Allowance
Accommodation Allowance

Documents Required for NSFAS 2026 Application

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 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’.

Learn more: Are NSFAS Applications Open For 2026

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.

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#

By meeting these requirements and submitting applications before the deadline, students can enhance their chances of securing the financial support they need to pursue their academic dreams.. Visit the official website of NSFAS for more information.

RELATED LINKS

Apply To NSFAS