How To Qualify For NSFAS 2026

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) aims to provide financial support to deserving students pursuing higher education in South Africa. Understanding the qualifications for NSFAS funding is important for prospective students seeking to embark on or continue their academic journeys. NSFAS financial aid is designed for South African citizens and permanent residents who demonstrate financial need and meet specific academic criteria. This scheme, funded by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), helps students who cannot afford their studies or access other forms of financial assistance like bank loans or bursaries.

Applications are typically open for a limited period, often from late September to late January of the preceding year. To ensure a successful application, it is essential to be aware of the specific eligibility requirements, gather all necessary documentation, and submit the application within the stipulated deadlines. NSFAS serves as a beacon of hope, making higher education accessible to many South African students by offering vital financial support.

Knowing the eligibility rules and application process increases the chances of being approved for funding. The criteria are carefully set to ensure that students with the greatest financial need are prioritized, while also promoting fair access to higher education.

Learn more: NSFAS Eligibility Criteria 2026/2027

Eligibility Criteria for NSFAS

To qualify for NSFAS 2026, applicants typically need to meet the following criteria:

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.

Academic and Enrollment Requirements

University academic eligibility criteria

To stay eligible for funding, university students need to pass at least 60% of their courses. In 2026, this means having a 60% course credit pass rate by the end of the 2026 academic year.

TVET academic eligibility criteria

Students advancing to the next NC(V) level must have passed at least 5 subjects in their current level to receive a bursary.
Those moving to the next Report 191 level must pass at least 3 subjects in their previous N-Level.
Academic progression requirements for occupational programmes are set by each TVET College, and the results are shared with NSFAS.

Financial Eligibility Criteria

Prospective students seeking financing for the first time, as well as continuing and returning students, are evaluated based on their financial eligibility.

If a student or applicant is unmarried, the household income is the total income from all sources earned by their biological or adoptive mother, biological or adoptive father, and the student/applicant.
If the student or applicant is under the care of a legal guardian, the household income is the combined total income of the guardian and the student/applicant.
If the student or applicant is married, the household income is the total income from all sources earned by both the student/applicant and their spouse.
Unmarried students who are financially independent from their parents and meet the definition of an “adult learner” in the Requirements and Conditions for Matriculation Endorsement and Certificates of Exemption for admission to higher education do not need to submit the NSFAS declaration form.

Social Grants Recipients (SASSA)

Students who receive a South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) grant and are confirmed by NSFAS automatically meet the financial eligibility requirements. If they are registered at an approved institution and meet the academic standards, they can receive a bursary.
Qualifying SASSA grants for funding include the Foster Care Grant, Care Dependency Grant, and Child Support Grant.

Non–Social Grants Recipients (NON-SASSA)

Students, other than those with disabilities, will be considered financially eligible if their total household income is R350,000 or less per year, regardless of when they first enrolled at an institution.
For students with disabilities, the income limit is R600,000 or less per year to qualify for financial eligibility.

Learn more: NSFAS Application Criteria 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.

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

Prospective students can prepare themselves for a better future by opening doors to possibilities for learning by knowing the requirements and carefully completing the application procedure.

Contact Details Of NSFAS

NSFAS Contact Center: