NSFAS Closing Date For 2026/2027

NSFAS Closing Date For 2026/2027

Applying for the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is one of the most important steps for many South African students who need financial support for their studies. Whether you are applying for the first time or continuing your funding, knowing the NSFAS closing date for the 2026/2027 academic year is essential. Missing this date could mean losing the chance to have your tuition fees, accommodation, and other study-related costs covered.

The NSFAS closing date is the final day to submit your application and all required documents. This deadline is set to ensure that all applications can be processed in time for the new academic year. Once the window closes, late applications are not accepted, so planning is key. Submitting your application early also gives you time to fix any mistakes or add missing documents without the stress of rushing at the last minute.

Students are encouraged to stay alert to official NSFAS updates for the 2026-2027 funding cycle. Deadlines are usually announced on the NSFAS website, social media pages, and through universities or TVET colleges. Keeping track of these announcements will help you avoid missing out. Knowing and preparing for the NSFAS closing date is more than just a formality; it’s the first step toward securing your education and building your future. By applying on time, you give yourself the best chance to receive the support you need for a successful academic year.

Learn more: Requirements For NSFAS Application 2026/2027

Dates for NSFAS 2026-2027 Applications

The NSFAS application period is an important time for students in South Africa who need financial help to study at a university or TVET college.

• NSFAS 2026-2027 Opening Date: Applications will open online on 1 September 2025.
• NSFAS 2026-2027 Closing Date: The final day to apply is 31 January 2026

Who Qualifies For NSFAS 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.

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.

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

Learn more: Application For NSFAS 2026-2027 Closing Date

NSFAS Application Procedure for 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

For details, go to https://www.nsfas.org.za

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