Can Foreigners Apply For NSFAS

Can Foreigners Apply For NSFAS; Bursaries For International Students

Can foreigners access NSFAS funding? Knowing the eligibility requirements for foreign students seeking financial aid is important for those interested in pursuing higher education in South Africa. Since NSFAS is only available to South African citizens, it is a good idea for foreign applicants to explore alternative sponsorship opportunities, such as bursaries. That being said, you may be eligible for NSFAS financing if you are successful in obtaining South African citizenship.

The NSFAS is a government initiative in South Africa that seeks to provide access to higher education for all deserving students, regardless of their financial situation. Gaining knowledge about the eligibility standards and application process will help you determine if you are eligible to apply for NSFAS and receive the funding you require to continue your study in South Africa.

Eligibility Criteria for NSFAS 2025

If you are a citizen of South Africa, intend to enrol in school in 2025, or are enrolled in a public university or TVET college and match the following criteria, you are eligible for an NSFAS bursary:

SASSA grant recipients
South African citizens or permanent residents
Candidates whose annual gross household income combined is not greater than R350 000
individuals with disabilities whose annual gross family income is not greater than R600,000.
Both a cell phone number and email address are required.

NSFAS Application Procedure for 2025

Follow the process below to apply online for the NSFAS bursaries for 2025-2026:

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

NSFAS Needed Documents for 2025 Applications

You will need the following support for your NSFAS online application 2025:

You must provide a copy of your student ID / Birth certificate
A copy of the parent/s or guardian/spouse’s ID
A Smart card: both sides of the card required
Proof of income (where applicable)
Persons living with disability (Disability Annexure A form)
A vulnerable child must provide a completed Vulnerable Child Declaration form completed by a social worker
An applicant who has indicated that he/she has no family member details and or abridged birth certificate must complete the Declaration: Non-SASSA

Bursaries For International Students

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

SEE ALSO: NSFAS Applications 2025-2026

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: