Will NSFAS Be Open In January 2026

As the new year approaches, many students across South Africa are naturally curious about whether the NSFAS application portal will be open in January. You’ll be pleased to hear that, yes, the NSFAS application portal is indeed open and will remain accessible throughout the entire month of January. This is excellent news for all prospective students, and they strongly urged everyone interested in financial help to submit their applications during this period. The National Student Financial Aid Scheme is a base initiative by the South African government, specifically designed to help students who demonstrate financial need and academic merit access higher education.

NSFAS offers a complete range of financial support options, which can include both scholarships and loans. This aid is created to cover various essential educational expenses, such as tuition fees, accommodation costs, and even funds for study materials, ensuring that students have the resources they need to succeed. This broad support aims to remove financial barriers, making tertiary education a more attainable goal for deserving individuals.

In this guide, we’ve gathered all the important information you’ll need regarding the NSFAS application process for January. We’ll cover crucial details like the exact application dates and deadlines, so you know exactly when to apply. Additionally, we’ll outline all the required documents you’ll need to prepare, helping you gather everything in advance. Finally, we’ll provide clear instructions on how to complete and submit your application online, making the process as straightforward as possible for you.

Learn more: Will NSFAS Pay For January 2026

Important Information for NSFAS Application 2026

To increase your chances of gaining financial assistance from NSFAS, consider the following;

Begin the application procedure as soon as possible to prevent a last-minute rush.
Ensure that all necessary supporting documents are correct and up to date.
Keep copies of all documents and application information for future reference.
Check your NSFAS account for changes regularly, and reply quickly to any requests for further information.

Key Dates and Application Periods

If you’re planning to apply as a new or returning student, make sure you know the important dates so you don’t miss out. NSFAS normally opens its online applications in the last quarter of the year, around September or October, and closes in January of the following year. It’s a good idea to mark them on your calendar and get your documents ready early. Applications sent in outside the official period won’t be accepted. For TVET college students, different application windows depend on when you want to start studying in 2026.

Eligibility criteria for NSFAS 2026

The NSFAS bursary is available for the category of people listed below:

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 Still Open

Application Process For NSFAS for 2026

Follow the guide below to apply online for NSFAS.

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’.

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#

If you want to study in South Africa in January 2026 and require financial support, NSFAS will be accepting applications. Stay informed, complete the qualifying requirements, and submit your application on time to begin your educational path with NSFAS assistance. Visit the official website of NSFAS for more information.

Is NSFAS Still Open For 2026