Categories: NSFAS Application

NSFAS Application Dates 2026/2027

If you are planning to study in South Africa and need financial assistance, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) can help cover your study costs. Knowing the application dates is very important, as missing the deadline means you will not be considered for funding. In this complete guide, we will walk you through the key dates, eligibility requirements, and how to apply. NSFAS applications will officially open on 1 September 2025 and close on 31 January 2026.

This funding is designed for students entering the post-school education system for the first time, as well as those who are already studying but do not have the financial means to continue. NSFAS provides comprehensive support that covers tuition fees, registration, accommodation, transport, and learning materials. To qualify, students must meet the eligibility criteria set by NSFAS, which usually include academic performance, household income limits, and enrollment at a public university or TVET college.

It is highly recommended that you apply as soon as applications open to avoid last-minute issues or missing out completely. Late applications are not accepted under any circumstances. The best way to stay updated on application announcements or possible date changes is to regularly visit the official NSFAS website at www.nsfas.org.za and follow their official social media channels.

Learn more: Application Dates For NSFAS 2026-2027

Application Dates for NSFAS 2026-2027

The NSFAS online application for the 2026-2027 academic year is expected to open on 1 September 2025 and close on 31 January 2026. Students are encouraged to apply as early as possible to avoid missing the deadline, as late applications will not be accepted. To stay updated on any changes or official announcements, it’s best to regularly check the NSFAS website at www.nsfas.org.za and follow their social media pages. NSFAS 2026/2027

Eligibility Criteria for NSFAS Funding 2026-2027

To be eligible for NSFAS funding for the 2026-2027 academic year, applicants must meet specific requirements:

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.

NSFAS Application Dates 2026/2027

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 bursary Academic Criteria

For NSFAS money to study at a TVET college, you must have completed Grades 9 through 12, and for funding to study at a university or TVET college, you must have completed Grade 12. Before receiving any support from NSFAS, if your application is accepted, you must fulfill the university’s or TVET college’s academic admission standards.

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.

Learn more: NSFAS Application 2026-2027

Other documents that may be required, if applicable

Retrenchment letter
Death certificate/s
Divorce Decree
Proof of legal guardianship
Marriage certificate
Other documents may be required for appeal purposes, eg, retrenchment letter,

Apply online to 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

NSFAS Contact Details