Is NSFAS Application Still Open For 2026/2027

Many students in South Africa rely on the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) to fund their studies and achieve their dream of higher education. If you are planning to study in the 2026-2027 academic year, you may be wondering whether applications are still open. NSFAS has officially confirmed that funding applications will open on 1 September 2025 and will close on 31 January 2026. This gives applicants several months to prepare and submit their applications.

It is very important to note that NSFAS does not accept late applications. Once the deadline passes, students who have not applied will not be considered for funding in the 2026-2027 academic year. To avoid missing out, all eligible students are strongly encouraged to apply as early as possible. Submitting your application early also allows you time to correct any mistakes, upload all required documents, and track your status without rushing at the last minute.

The funding provided by NSFAS covers tuition fees, accommodation, study materials, and living allowances for qualifying students. This makes it an essential support system for those who cannot afford the costs of higher education on their own. If you plan to start or continue your studies in 2026, make sure you prepare your documents in advance and apply as soon as applications open. By applying on time, you give yourself the best chance of securing financial support and focusing fully on your studies without worrying about money.

NSFAS Application Dates for 2026-2027

Applications for NSFAS funding for the 2026-2027 academic year will officially open on 1 September 2025 and close on 31 January 2026. This period covers new students applying for the first time as well as current students who need financial support for the second semester. To avoid missing out, it is recommended that applicants keep an eye on the NSFAS official website (www.nsfas.org.za) and follow their official social media platforms. These channels will provide the latest updates, reminders, and any possible changes to the application dates.

Learn more: Requirements For NSFAS Bursary 2026/2027

Eligibility Criteria for NSFAS Funding 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.

Is NSFAS Application Still Open For 2026/2027

What does the NSFAS bursary cover?

NSFAS will cover your costs for the following:

Accommodation
Living allowance
Learning material allowance
Personal care allowance

UNISA students will receive funding for:

Tuition
Books (subject to the number of modules registered)
Personal care allowance

Eligible students with a disability will receive funding for:

Assistive Devices
Meals
Tuition
Transport
Tuition
Human Support
Accommodation

Who should not apply for NSFAS 2026

Students who have previously applied for and been awarded financing are not yet finished with their current degree and have no intention of switching from one industry to another (TVET College to University or vice versa). If they pass all of their modules and fulfil the academic standards, they will get automatic funding for the remainder of their study.

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.

Apply For NSFAS 2026

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: www.nsfas.org.za apply 2026 online application

How to Check Your myNSFAS Application Status

Follow these steps to see how your application is progressing:

Visit the myNSFAS Portal