How Do I Apply For NSFAS 2026/2027

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) offers vital financial assistance to eligible South African students pursuing higher education at public universities and TVET colleges. This government program aims to alleviate financial burdens, covering expenses such as tuition fees, registration costs, accommodation, transport, living allowances, and study materials. The NSFAS application window is scheduled to open on September 1, 2025, and will close on January 31, 2026, for the 2026-2027.

Prospective students must adhere to these deadlines, as late submissions will not be considered. To qualify for NSFAS funding, applicants generally need to be South African citizens or permanent residents and be enrolled or planning to enroll in a public university or TVET college. Eligibility criteria also involve household income thresholds. Students with disabilities have a different income threshold, qualifying for a bursary or loan.

SASSA grant recipients automatically qualify for funding and are not required to submit proof of income. The application process is primarily online through the myNSFAS portal, requiring applicants to create an account, complete an online form, and upload necessary supporting documents.

Learn more: NSFAS Application for 2026-2027

Eligibility Criteria 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.

Who is not qualified to apply for NSFAS

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.

How Do I Apply For NSFAS 2026/2027

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

Apply for NSFAS online 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

Learn more: NSFAS Requirements 2026-2027

A planned strategy and strict deadline observance are required when applying for NSFAS funding for the 2026-2027 academic year. Students who meet the requirements can improve their chances of receiving financial aid for their postsecondary education by carefully following these steps.

Contact Details Of NSFAS

NSFAS Contact Center: