NSFAS Application Dates For 2026/2027

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) plays a key role in helping South African students access higher education by providing financial assistance to those who qualify. Each year, NSFAS opens its online application process for new and returning students who need funding for tuition fees, accommodation, study materials, and other essential costs. The application dates are an important detail for anyone planning to study at a public university or TVET college for the 2026 school year. Missing these dates could mean losing out on the chance to receive funding, so it is important to prepare early. The application window for NSFAS funding for the 2026/2027 academic year is set to begin on September 1, 2025. Prospective students have until January 31, 2026.

Typically, NSFAS applications open towards the end of the year before studies begin, giving applicants several months to submit all the required documents and complete their online application. During this period, students should make sure they have their certified ID copy, proof of income, and any other necessary supporting documents ready. Applying as soon as the portal opens is highly recommended to avoid last-minute issues such as technical delays or incomplete submissions.

By keeping track of the NSFAS application dates for 2026-2027, students can plan their submissions on time and increase their chances of securing financial aid. Staying informed and prepared will make the process much smoother, allowing applicants to focus on their studies without the stress of financial uncertainty. Whether you are a first-time applicant or a continuing student, knowing these dates is the first step toward receiving the support you need for your academic journey.

Learn more: NSFAS Application 2026-2027

Opening and closing dates for NSFAS 2026-2027 Applications

The NSFAS application period for the 2026-2027 academic year will open on 1 September 2025 and close on 31 January 2026. Students are encouraged to apply as early as possible to avoid last-minute issues, as late applications will not be considered after the deadline.

Eligibility Criteria for NSFAS Funding

To be eligible for NSFAS funding, applicants must meet specific 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.

What does the NSFAS funding cover?

Amounts indicated for accommodation, living allowance, transport, and learning materials need to be aligned with the latest DHET guidelines.

UNIVERSITY

Accommodation as per the actual costs charged by the university (costs for private
accommodation must not exceed the costs for university residence)
Transport (up to 40 km from the institution) R7 500 per annum
Living allowance R15, 000 per annum
Book allowances R5200 per annum
Incidental/personal care allowance of R2900 per annum for students in catered residences

TVET

Accommodation in an urban area is R24,000 per annum
Accommodation in a peri-urban area is R18,900 per annum
Accommodation in a rural area is R15,750 per annum
Transport (up to 40 km from the institution) R7,350 per annum
Transport R7000 per annum
Incidental/personal care allowance R2900 per annum

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.

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.

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. NSFAS Application Dates For 2026/2027

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 Is NSFAS Application Open For 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.

How to Apply Online 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

NSFAS Contact Details