Is The NSFAS Application Open for 2026/2027

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) plays a vital role in helping thousands of South African students access higher education every year. NSFAS has officially confirmed that financial aid applications will open on 1 September 2025 and close on 31 January 2026. This funding opportunity is designed for students who wish to enrol in college or university programs but do not have the financial means to pay for their studies. By applying for NSFAS support, students can cover tuition fees, accommodation, study materials, and other essential costs related to their education.

Understanding the NSFAS application process and deadlines is important if you are planning to study in 2026. Missing the application window could mean losing the chance to secure funding, which is why prospective applicants are encouraged to prepare all the necessary documents in advance. Whether you are a first-time applicant or a returning student who needs continued support, keeping track of the official NSFAS dates ensures you do not miss this opportunity.

With education being one of the key drivers of personal and professional growth, financial challenges should not stand in the way of achieving your academic goals. NSFAS funding for the 2026–2027 academic year offers students a fair chance to pursue their dreams and gain access to quality education. Staying informed about the application period will help you plan and take full advantage of the support available.

NSFAS Application Open Date 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: NSFAS Online Applications for 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 if you are enrolled in a public university or TVET college and you 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 eligible 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. Is The NSFAS Application 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

NSFAS Application Process for 2026-2027

Below is a comprehensive guide that will help you easily follow the National Student Financial Aid Scheme application process by providing all the necessary information. NSFAS 2026/2027

Getting the Necessary Documents

Collect the necessary paperwork for the application procedure, including your school or university admission letter, a certified copy of your ID, and evidence of your income for yourself or your guardian.

Qualifications for NSFAS Registration

Make sure that you meet the NSFAS eligibility requirements before applying.
To be eligible, a person must normally meet certain requirements, such as being a citizen of South Africa, being enrolled in or accepted into a public university or TVET college, and having a recognized qualification.

How to utilize the NSFAS Application

Find the application section by visiting the NSFAS portal or website. Register for an account, or sign in with an existing account.
To obtain the application for the 2026-2027 school year, follow the instructions. www.nsfas.org.za apply

Fill out the Application Form.

Complete the application form with precision and thoroughness. Make sure the information is accurate and up to date, and include any pertinent facts.
Prepare yourself to enter personal, academic, and financial data as needed. www.nsfas.org.za apply

Putting in the Application

Please submit your application online after filling it out and attaching the required files.
For your records, make sure you obtain an application reference number or a confirmation of submission.

Verify the Status of Your Application and Follow Up

Utilizing your application reference number or login information, follow up on the status of your application once it has been submitted.
This will assist you in being updated on any changes or new prerequisites that may be required to process your application

Learn more: When Do Applications For NSFAS 2026 Open

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. NSFAS 2026/2027

Apply for NSFAS online 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

How to Check Your myNSFAS Application Status

Follow these steps to see how your application is progressing:

Visit the myNSFAS Portal