NSFAS Online Application 2026 Opening Date

NSFAS Online Application 2026 Opening Date

NSFAS Online Application 2026 Opening Date

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) plays a very important role in helping South African students who cannot afford the cost of higher education. Every year, thousands of students look forward to the official announcement of when applications will open. The NSFAS online application opening date is a key detail that all prospective students need to know. According to the latest update, NSFAS applications for the 2026 academic year will officially open on 1 September 2025 and close on 31 January 2026.

This means students will have five months to complete and submit their applications online. It is important to apply early during this period to avoid last-minute issues such as system delays or technical errors. Late applications are not accepted, so marking these dates on your calendar is highly recommended. NSFAS has also highlighted the importance of providing correct and complete information during the application process. In particular, students are encouraged to ensure that all parental or guardian details are accurate.

This helps the system verify funding eligibility quickly with Home Affairs and reduces the chances of applicants being asked to appeal later because of missing or incorrect information. If you are planning to study in 2026 or continue your current studies without financial support, NSFAS is an opportunity you should not miss. Preparing your required documents in advance and understanding the application process will make it easier to submit a successful application when the portal opens.

Learn more: My NSFAS Application 2026-2027

NSFAS Application Opening and Deadline Date 2026

Prospective students can apply for financial aid during the NSFAS funding application season, which usually opens within a certain duration. The exact dates for the 2026-2027 academic year begin on 1st September 2025 and close on 31st January 2026. Therefore, eligible qualified students are encouraged to apply before the closing date of the application.

Who can apply 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.

NSFAS Funding Academic Criteria for 2026

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.

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: When Are Applications For NSFAS 2026 Opening

How to 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

Keep yourself informed about when the NSFAS 2026 online application will open, make sure you meet the requirements, and submit your application as soon as possible. For details, go to https://www.nsfas.org.za

USEFUL LINKS