Closing Date For NSFAS 2026/2027

Are you planning to apply for the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) to help fund your studies for the 2026-2027 academic year? If yes, then one of the most important things you need to keep in mind is the application closing date. Missing this deadline could mean losing out on the chance to get financial support for your education. The NSFAS closing date is the final day for students to submit their online applications along with all the required supporting documents.

Applications submitted after this date may not be considered, which is why applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early. Submitting your application on time gives you a better chance of being funded and reduces the risk of last-minute errors or technical issues. According to the official announcement by NSFAS, applications for the 2026-2027 funding period will open in September 2025 and close on 31 January 2026.

This gives students several months to prepare and ensure that all documents, such as proof of income and identification, are ready for submission. If you are hoping to study at a public university or TVET college in South Africa, applying before the deadline is very important. NSFAS funding covers tuition fees, accommodation, transport, and allowances for study materials, making it a vital support system for many students.

Learn more: Application For NSFAS 2026-2027 Closing Date

NSFAS Application closing date for 2026-2027

The deadline for NSFAS applications for the 2026 academic year is January 31, 2026, which all prospective students need to be aware of. If this deadline is missed, the application may not be reviewed, which might harm the applicant’s prospects of receiving important financial aid for their educational institution.

Who Qualifies For NSFAS 2026-2027

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. NSFAS 2026/2027

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.

NSFAS Application Process for 2026-2027

Below is a comprehensive guide that will help you easily follow the National Student Financial Aid Scheme application process by providing you with all the necessary information.

Getting the Necessary Documents

Collect the necessary paperwork for the application procedure, including your school or university admission letter, a certified copy of your ID, and evidence of your income for yourself or your guardian.

Qualifications for NSFAS Registration

Make sure that you meet the NSFAS eligibility requirements before applying.
To be eligible, a person must normally meet certain requirements, such as being a citizen of South Africa, being enrolled in or accepted into a public university or TVET college, and having a recognized qualification.

How to utilize the NSFAS Application

Find the application section by visiting the NSFAS portal or website. Register for an account, or sign in with an existing account.
To obtain the application for the 2026–2027 school year, follow the instructions.

Learn more: Does NSFAS Have A WhatsApp Number?

Fill out the Application Form.

Complete the application form with precision and thoroughness. Make sure the information is accurate and up to date, and include any pertinent facts.
Prepare yourself to enter personal, academic, and financial data as needed.

Putting in the Application

Submit your application online after filling it out and attaching the required files.
For your records, make sure you obtain an application reference number or a confirmation of submission. Closing Date For NSFAS 2026/2027

Verify the Status of Your Application and Follow Up

Utilizing your application reference number or login information, follow up on the status of your application once it has been submitted.
This will assist you in being updated on any changes or new prerequisites that may be required to process your application

For potential applicants looking for financial help, the NSFAS 2026-2027 closing date is an important milestone. You must meet this deadline for your application to be taken into account for financing. To increase your chances of receiving financial help, be well-informed, make plans ahead of time, and submit your application on time.

NSFAS Contact Details

NSFAS Contact Center: