Can Foreigners Apply For NSFAS

Studying in South Africa opens many doors for students, especially with the variety of degrees and courses offered at universities and TVET colleges. However, the cost of higher education can be overwhelming, and that is where the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) comes in. NSFAS was designed to provide financial assistance to South African students from poor and working-class families so they can access quality education without worrying about money.

With funding that covers tuition, accommodation, study materials, and even living allowances, NSFAS has changed the lives of many students. Because of its benefits, many international students and foreign residents living in South Africa often ask if they too can apply for NSFAS. The answer to this question depends on the specific eligibility rules set by NSFAS, which outline who can qualify for funding. Knowing these rules beforehand is very important so that students do not waste time applying if they are not eligible.

This article will explain whether foreigners can apply for NSFAS, highlight the requirements for funding, and discuss possible alternatives for those who do not qualify. If you are a foreign student hoping to study in South Africa, understanding these details will help you plan better and explore the right opportunities to support your studies. By the end of this guide, you will have a clearer idea of whether NSFAS is available to you or if you should explore other bursaries and scholarships.

Learn more: How Do I Apply For NSFAS 2026/2027

Eligibility for NSFAS Funding 2026

If you are a citizen of South Africa, intend to enrol in school in 2026, or are enrolled in a public university or TVET college, and match the following criteria, you are eligible for an NSFAS bursary:

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.

Who is Not Eligible to Apply for NSFAS?

Not every student can apply for NSFAS funding. You should not apply if you fall into any of these categories:

Students who have already completed a previous qualification.
Students whose combined household income is more than R350,000 per year.
Students who have already applied, qualified, and are currently funded. These students will continue to receive financial support for the rest of their studies as long as they pass their modules and meet the academic requirements.

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.

Other documents that may be required, if applicable

Retrenchment letter
Death certificate/s
Divorce Decree
Proof of legal guardianship
Marriage certificate
Other documents may be required for appeal purposes, eg, retrenchment letter

Learn more: How To Qualify For NSFAS 2026

NSFAS Application Procedure for 2026

Follow the process below to apply online for the NSFAS bursaries for 2026-2027:

Create a profile: Use this link to register for a myNSFAS account: https://my.nsfas.org.za/ or get the NSFAS App from the App Store or Google Play. Your username will be your ID number.
Apply now: To amend your personal information and upload the supporting documents for your application, click the “Apply” option.
Complete: Submit your application

While supporting South African nationals is the primary goal of NSFAS, there are several exceptions for foreigners who satisfy certain residency or status requirements. International students who wish to apply for financial aid in South Africa must comprehend these requirements.

NSFAS Contact Details

NSFAS Contact Center: