How To Register For NSFAS 2026/2027

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is one of the main ways South African students can get financial support for higher education. Many young people who cannot afford tuition fees depend on NSFAS to achieve their study goals. If you are planning to study in the 2026-2027 academic year, learning how to register for NSFAS is an important step. This funding is available to South African citizens and permanent residents who can show financial need and who meet the academic requirements to study at public universities or TVET colleges.

Instead of turning to bank loans or private bursaries, NSFAS gives students a fair chance to access education without being held back by financial challenges. Registering for NSFAS may feel overwhelming at first, but once you understand the process, it becomes easier to manage. The application window for 2026-2027 is expected to open towards the end of 2025 and close early in 2026.

To prepare, applicants should collect all the necessary documents ahead of time. These usually include a valid ID, proof of household income, and academic results. It is very important to submit a complete application before the closing date to avoid delays or rejection. By creating a MyNSFAS account, filling in your details correctly, and uploading all supporting documents, you improve your chances of being approved. With the right preparation, NSFAS can help you pay for your studies and move closer to your future career.

Learn more: NSFAS Status Check Login 2026/2027

Registration Dates for NSFAS 2026

Below are the estimated dates for the 2026-2027 academic session;

NSFAS 2026 Opening Date: September 2025
NSFAS 2026 Closing Date: January 2026

Eligible Criteria to register for NSFAS 2026

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 Register?

Students who have completed a previous qualification.
Applicants with a combined household income of more than R350 000 per annum.
Students who have already applied, are qualified, and receive funding. They are automatically funded for the duration of their studies, provided they pass their modules and meet the academic requirements.

How To Register For NSFAS 2026/2027

Step-by-Step Registration Guide for MyNSFAS Account

Visit the official NSFAS website or portal to register for the forthcoming academic year. This will allow you to access the NSFAS Portal.

Establish an Account: Create an account by providing correct personal information and creating a login.
All information related to registration: Provide the necessary facts, such as your contact information, household income, and academic background.
Upload Required Documents: As instructed, prepare and upload the required documents, including identification, proof of income, academic transcripts, etc.
Send in your registration: After checking all the information, submit your registration for review.

How to Re-register for NSFAS Online 2026

The following steps will help you to re-register for NSFAS 2026:

Visit www.nsfas.org.za
Then you click the myNSFAS tab
After that, you click on “Register“
You have to tick the box to allow NSFAS to confirm your details
Then provide your ID number as it is stated on your ID document
Enter your full name and surname on your ID document
Enter your current email address
Verify your email address
Type in your cellphone number
And then, you create a password
Confirm password
Upload all your ID copies
Click on “Register“
A one-time PIN (OTP) will be sent to the email and cellphone number provided (after 24 hours, this OTP will expire)
Enter the OTP and click on submit
You just completed your Re-registration for NSFAS 2026