Categories: NSFAS Application

How To Apply For NSFAS At Unisa 2026/2027

If you are planning to study at the University of South Africa (UNISA) for the 2026-2027 academic year but are worried about how to pay for your studies, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) can be a solution. NSFAS is a government-funded program that provides financial support to South African students who cannot afford the costs of higher education. With this assistance, thousands of students are able to access quality education and work towards their career goals.

NSFAS is the key to making university education possible. It covers tuition fees, accommodation, learning materials, and even allowances for daily needs. This makes it easier for learners to focus on their studies without the heavy stress of financial struggles. If you wish to enrol at UNISA, it is important to understand how the NSFAS application process works.

The application requires you to provide certain documents and personal information to prove that you qualify for funding. Knowing the steps in advance can save you time and prevent mistakes during the process. Our step-by-step guide will help you through the NSFAS application for UNISA. From creating an account, completing the application form, to uploading the required documents, we explain each stage clearly and simply. By following this guide, you will be better prepared and have a higher chance of securing the financial aid you need.

Learn more: Unisa NSFAS Application 2026/2027

NSFAS Application Dates for Unisa Students 2026/2027

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) will open its application period for Unisa students for the 2026/2027 academic year on 1 September 2025. The closing date for applications is 31 January 2026. Students are strongly advised to apply as early as possible and not wait until the last minute. Submitting applications on time is very important, as late applications are usually not considered.

Eligibility Criteria for NSFAS Funding at Unisa 2026/2027

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 for Unisa NSFAS

received NSFAS funding in 2025
have already completed an undergraduate degree or diploma.
are not South African citizens.
need funding for a Short Learning Certificate or Programme or a postgraduate qualification.

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.

UNISA 2026 NSFAS Application Procedure

For the registration dates, please visit the Unisa website: www.unisa.ac.za/Apply/Apply. To apply, follow the steps below;

Create a profile: Create a myNSFAS account via this link: https://my.nsfas.org.za/ or download the NSFAS App on Google Play or App Store. Your ID number will be your username.
Apply now: Click on the “Apply’ tab to update your personal information and upload your application supporting documents, as indicated.
Complete: Submit your application

Learn more: Unisa NSFAS Allowance 2026/2027

How to Check Your myNSFAS Application Status

Follow these steps to see how your application is progressing:

Visit the myNSFAS Portal

Go to www.nsfas.org.za.
Click the myNSFAS button at the top right of the homepage.

Enter your email address and password.
Complete the CAPTCHA to confirm it’s you.
Click Sign In.

Check Your Application Status

After logging in, find the Track Application Progress or Application Status tab.
Click it to see your current status.

The UNISA NSFAS application process requires careful attention to detail and accuracy. By being aware of the requirements, getting the paperwork ready, and following the steps carefully, you can improve your chances of getting the financial assistance that you need to continue your education.

NSFAS Contact

For all other queries regarding students:

Tel No.: 08000 67327
Email:info@nsfas.org.za
Physical Address
The Halyard, 4 Christiaan Barnard St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8001.

Contact UNISA

University of South Africa
P O Box 392 Unisa
0003
Ethics Hotline: 0800 075 278
unisa@thehotline.co.za

Visit the Official Website for more details.

OTHER RELATED POST

NSFAS Online Applications 2026-2027

Application Tracker NSFAS 2026-2027