Will NSFAS Pay For January 2026

Are you planning to start your studies in South Africa this coming January and wondering if NSFAS will be there to help with funding? You’re in the right place, and we’re here to answer your questions! The great news is that NSFAS normally announces its grant rules and application deadlines well in advance. This gives you plenty of time to prepare and submit your application. Whether NSFAS funding will be available for the January 2026 intake largely depends on a few key aspects, such as the South African government’s budget allocated for higher education and the total number of deserving students who apply.

NSFAS has a strong focus on supporting students who have the greatest financial need. This means that if you come from a low-income household, you generally have a higher chance of being approved for funding. This commitment ensures that financial barriers don’t stand in the way of qualified students pursuing their academic dreams. It’s all about providing opportunities for those who need them most.

On this page, we’ll cover everything you need to know about NSFAS funding specifically for the January intake. We’ll go through the eligibility criteria, guide you through the application process step-by-step, and set clear expectations about what you can anticipate. Don’t let this incredible opportunity pass you by; securing this funding could be the key to starting your academic year successfully and confidently.

Learn more: How Often NSFAS Pay For College Students 2026

Will You Get NSFAS Funds in January 2026?

NSFAS usually follows the academic calendar when making payments. In most cases, students don’t get a separate payment just for January. Instead, NSFAS often pays out the first few months’ allowances together, usually around March, once your registration is confirmed. So, while there might not be a payment specifically for January 2026, it will likely be included in a bigger upfront payment for the start of the year.

Who Qualifies for NSFAS Funding?

To qualify for NSFAS funding for the 2026 academic year, you must be:

All South African citizens
All SASSA grant recipients qualify for funding
Applicants whose combined household income is not more than R350,000 per annum
A person with a disability: Combined household income must not be more than R600,000 per annum
SASSA recipients automatically qualify for funding and need not submit any proof of income.

Allowances Covered by NSFAS

NSFAS bursaries cover various expenses to ensure students can focus on their studies without financial burden. These include:

UNIVERSITY

Accommodation
As per the actual costs charged by the university (costs for private accommodation must not exceed costs for university residence)
Transport (up to 40 km from institution) R7,500 per annum
Living allowance R15, 000 per annum
Book allowances R5200 per annum
Incidental/personal care allowance R2900 per annum for students in catered residences

Will NSFAS Pay For January 2026

TVET

Accommodation in an urban area R24,000 per annum
Accommodation in a peri-urban area R18,900 per annum
Accommodation in a rural area R15,750 per annum
Transport (up to 40 km from institution) R7,350 per annum
Transport R7000 per annum
Incidental/personal care allowance R2900 per annum

When Will NSFAS Payments Be Made?

NSFAS has shared monthly payment dates for the 2025 academic year, which gives a good idea of what to expect in 2026. Students usually receive around 11 payments throughout the year. In 2025, the first payment came around March 5th, and the following payments were made near the end of each month, around the 28th, 30th, or 31st.

Learn more: How Often Does NSFAS Pay For Tuition Fees 2026

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.

Application Procedure For NSFAS Funding 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#

NSFAS is an important resource for South African students seeking financial aid to further their education. To enhance your chances of getting NSFAS funding in January 2026, make sure you complete the qualifying requirements and submit your application as soon as possible. Visit the official website of NSFAS for more information.

How Do I Apply For NSFAS 2026