NSFAS Eligibility Criteria 2026/2027

Securing financial assistance for higher education is a significant concern for many South African students, and the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) stands as a beacon of hope. Knowing the detailed eligibility requirements is crucial for all aspiring and returning students. This complete insight into NSFAS criteria will enable applicants to prepare their submissions, thereby maximizing their chances of receiving vital financial support for their studies at public universities and TVET colleges. The application period for NSFAS funding for the 2026/2027 academic year is anticipated to commence on September 1, 2025, and will close on January 31, 2026.

This consistent application window for both university and TVET college students provides ample time for applicants to gather necessary documentation and submit their forms. The fundamental eligibility requirements for NSFAS funding are straightforward and aim to support deserving students. Firstly, all applicants must be South African citizens. Secondly, a primary financial criterion is that the applicant’s combined annual household income must not exceed R350,000.

This threshold is adjusted for students with disabilities, whose household income limit is set at R600,000 per annum. Students who are recipients of any SASSA grant are automatically deemed eligible for NSFAS funding. Furthermore, for students who commenced their studies before the 2020 academic year, a specific household income cap of R122,000 per annum applies. These criteria collectively ensure that NSFAS funding is directed towards those who genuinely require financial aid to pursue their academic aspirations.

Learn more: Criteria For NSFAS 2026-2027

Who Qualifies for NSFAS 2026-2027

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.

The NSFAS Requirements for 2026-2027?

Academic Eligibility Criteria

The percentage of course credits that a student earns during the academic year will be used to calculate the academic progression requirements. Institutions and NSFAS will gradually align the standards for academic advancement.

University academic eligibility criteria

To stay eligible for funding, university students need to pass at least 60% of their courses. In 2026, this means having a 60% course credit pass rate by the end of the 2026 academic year.

TVET academic eligibility criteria

Students advancing to the next NC(V) level must have passed at least 5 subjects in their current level to receive a bursary.
Those moving to the next Report 191 level must pass at least 3 subjects in their previous N-Level.
Academic progression requirements for occupational programmes are set by each TVET College, and the results are shared with NSFAS. NSFAS Eligibility Criteria 2026/2027

Financial Eligibility Criteria

Prospective students seeking financing for the first time, as well as continuing and returning students, are evaluated based on their financial eligibility.

If a student or applicant is unmarried, the household income is the total income from all sources earned by their biological or adoptive mother, biological or adoptive father, and the student/applicant.
If the student or applicant is under the care of a legal guardian, the household income is the combined total income of the guardian and the student/applicant.
If the student or applicant is married, the household income is the total income from all sources earned by both the student/applicant and their spouse.
Unmarried students who are financially independent from their parents and meet the definition of an “adult learner” in the Requirements and Conditions for Matriculation Endorsement and Certificates of Exemption for admission to higher education do not need to submit the NSFAS declaration form.

Social Grants Recipients (SASSA)

Students who receive a South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) grant and are confirmed by NSFAS automatically meet the financial eligibility requirements. If they are registered at an approved institution and meet the academic standards, they can receive a bursary.
Qualifying SASSA grants for funding include the Foster Care Grant, Care Dependency Grant, and Child Support Grant.

Non–Social Grants Recipients (NON-SASSA)

Students, other than those with disabilities, will be considered financially eligible if their total household income is R350,000 or less per year, regardless of when they first enrolled at an institution.
For students with disabilities, the income limit is R600,000 or less per year to qualify for financial eligibility.

Learn more: What Are The NSFAS Requirements 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.

Application Process for 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

Contact Details Of NSFAS

NSFAS Contact Center: