Categories: NSFAS Application

Documents Required For NSFAS Application 2026/2027

Getting funding for your studies is a big step toward achieving your education goals, and the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) makes this possible for thousands of students each year. If you are planning to apply for the 2026–2027 academic year, one of the most important things you need to know is the list of required documents. Submitting the correct paperwork is the foundation of a successful NSFAS application. Many students miss out on funding opportunities because of incomplete or incorrect documents.

To avoid delays, it’s best to prepare early and make sure everything is accurate. For example, you will need your South African ID or birth certificate to prove your identity. Your parents or guardians may need to provide proof of income, or if they are unemployed, you may need to submit an affidavit. If you receive a SASSA grant, you should include your confirmation letter as part of the application.

NSFAS may also ask for academic records or proof of registration. All documents must be clear, certified, and submitted in the correct format through the online application system. Providing these documents is not just a formality; it shows that you qualify for support and allows NSFAS to process your application faster. Preparing them in advance will give you confidence when applying and increase your chances of being approved. Think of this step as securing the financial support you need to focus fully on your education.

Learn more: NSFAS Application for 2026-2027

NSFAS Funding Eligibility for 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.

Who should not apply?

Students who have completed a previous qualification.
Students with a combined household income of more than R350 000 per annum.
Students who have already applied, qualified, and received funding. They are automatically funded for the duration of their studies, provided 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: Requirements For NSFAS 2026-2027

Application Process for NSFAS 2026-2027

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

An accepted application depends on these documents being accurate, full, and submitted on time. Recall that incomplete or inaccurate documentation may cause your financial aid application to be delayed or compromised. Comment below if you have any questions about this post.

Contact Details Of NSFAS

NSFAS Contact Center: