Which Colleges Accept NSFAS 2026/2027

Which Colleges Accept NSFAS 2026/2027

Choosing the right college to further your studies is an important decision, especially when considering financial aid options like the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). For many South African students, NSFAS plays an important part in making higher education affordable and accessible. If you’re planning to study for the upcoming academic year, it’s essential to know which colleges accept NSFAS funding to ensure you can access the financial support you need. NSFAS primarily supports students enrolled at public universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges across South Africa.​

These institutions offer a wide variety of programs from academic degrees to practical vocational courses. The good news is that many well-known public institutions, both universities and TVET colleges, are part of the NSFAS funding scheme, allowing qualified students to pursue their studies without the heavy burden of financial stress. While NSFAS funding covers tuition, accommodation, and other education-related expenses, it is important to note that only approved public institutions participate in the scheme.

Private colleges and universities generally do not accept NSFAS funding, so students should verify their institution’s status before applying. If you are aiming to apply for NSFAS bursaries in 2026/2027, knowing which colleges are eligible is the first step towards a smooth application process. This knowledge helps you plan your educational journey better, ensuring you can focus on your studies with financial backing. In this article, we’ll explore the range of NSFAS-accepting colleges in South Africa for 2026/2027.

Learn more: NSFAS Coinvest

Colleges Accepting NSFAS 2026/2027

The colleges listed below accept NSFAS;

• Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University
• Rhodes University
• Sol Plaatje University
• University of Mpumalanga
• University of Fort Hare
• Walter Sisulu University (Queenstown Campus)
• Cape Peninsula University of Technology
• Stellenbosch University
• University of Cape Town
• University of the Western Cape
• Central University of Technology
• University of Free State
• Boland TVET College
• College of Cape Town
• False Bay College
• Northlink TVET College
• South Cape TVET College
• West Coast TVET College
• Eastern Cape TVET Colleges
• Buffalo City TVET College
• Eastcape Midlands TVET College
• Ikhala TVET College
• Ingwe TVET College
• King Hintsa TVET College
• King Sabata Dalindyebo TVET College
• Lovedale TVET College
• Port Elizabeth TVET College

Eligibility Criteria for NSFAS 

To apply for NSFAS funding, you need to meet specific qualification criteria. However, the qualification criteria for NSFAS funding are;

• 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.

Learn more: Is NSFAS Open For Late Applications 2026

How To Apply For NSFAS At Colleges

Follow the steps below to apply for NSFAS funding;

• 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’.

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#

Many South African students have gained access to higher education because of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). You may pursue your academic aims without being constrained by money if you fulfill the qualification requirements and select one of the many schools and universities that accept NSFAS applications. Visit the official website of NSFAS for more information.

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