Categories: NSFAS Application

NSFAS For Private Colleges 2026/2027

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a vital financial aid source for many South African students, primarily those attending public universities and TVET colleges. As the 2026/2027 academic year approaches, students often seek clarity on the application process, eligibility, and important dates. It’s essential for both prospective and returning applicants to understand the scope of NSFAS funding to prepare effectively. The NSFAS online application window is anticipated to open on September 1, 2025, and close on January 31, 2026, for the 2026-2027 school year. This period is consistent for both university and TVET college applicants.

A key point of confusion for many applicants is whether NSFAS extends its funding to private colleges. While NSFAS provides financial assistance in the form of study bursaries to qualifying students at public universities and TVET colleges, it generally does not fund students studying at private colleges or universities. The National Student Financial Aid Scheme Act applies to education institutions established or declared as public colleges or registered as private colleges in terms of this Act. However, specific eligibility criteria explicitly state that NSFAS does not fund students attending private institutions. This distinction is important for applicants to consider when planning their studies and seeking financial support.

To qualify for NSFAS funding, applicants must be South African citizens, and their combined household income should not exceed R350,000 per annum, or R600,000 for individuals with disabilities. SASSA grant recipients automatically qualify for funding. Students who commenced their studies before 2020 and whose household income is not more than R122,000 per annum also meet the criteria. NSFAS is also improving its online systems to facilitate easier applications, quicker feedback, and direct payment of allowances into student bank accounts. It is highly recommended to apply early and ensure all required documents are accurately submitted to avoid delays.

Learn more: NSFAS For Tvet College 2026/2027

Who qualifies for NSFAS funding?

The following are some of the documents required for the NSFAS application:

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.

Institutions Covered by NSFAS

The following are the registered TVET Colleges in South Africa that offer NSFAS:

Eastern Cape

Buffalo City TVET College
Eastcape Midlands TVET College
Ikhala TVET College
Ingwe TVET College
King Hintsa TVET College
King Sabata Dalindyebo TVET College
Lovedale TVET College
Port Elizabeth TVET College

Free State

Flavius Mareka TVET College
Goldfields TVET College
Maluti TVET College
Motheo TVET College

Gauteng

Central Johannesburg TVET College
Ekurhuleni East TVET College
Ekurhuleni West TVET College
Sedibeng TVET College
South West Gauteng TVET College
Tshwane North TVET College
Tshwane South TVET College
Western TVET College

KwaZulu-Natal

Coastal TVET College
Elangeni TVET College
Esayidi TVET College
Majuba TVET College
Mnambithi TVET College
Mthashana TVET College
Thekwini TVET College
Umfolozi TVET College
Umgungundlovu TVET College

Limpopo

Capricorn TVET College
Lephalale TVET College
Letaba TVET College
Mopani South East TVET College
Sekhukhune TVET College
Vhembe TVET College
Waterberg TVET College

Mpumalanga

Ehlanzeni TVET College
Gert Sibande TVET College
Nkangala TVET College

Northern Cape

Northern Cape Urban TVET College
Northern Cape Rural TVET College

North West

Orbit TVET College
Taletso TVET College
Vuselela TVET College

Learn more: TVET Colleges That Are Funded By NSFAS 2026/2027

Western Cape

Boland TVET College
College of Cape Town
False Bay TVET College
Northlink TVET College
South Cape TVET College
West Coast TVET College

Alternative Funding for Private College Students

Since NSFAS doesn’t fund private colleges, students can explore other options.

Employer Sponsorship: Some employers fund studies if the course supports career growth or skills they need.
Government Grants: Certain government programs fund courses that address key skill shortages.
SETA Funding: SETAs support skills training in various sectors, such as AgriSETA’s grants for agriculture in 2026/2027.
Scholarships and Bursaries: Many private colleges offer these based on grades, financial need, or other criteria.
Student Loans: Banks and financial institutions provide loans for tuition and study costs, which must be repaid.

NSFAS Contact Details