Categories: NSFAS Application

Requirements For NSFAS Bursary 2026/2027

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) helps South African students who need financial support to study at universities and TVET colleges. NSFAS will continue to provide funding to eligible students, covering tuition fees, accommodation, and other study-related costs for the 2026 academic year. To benefit from this bursary, it is important to know the requirements and prepare all necessary documents before applying. To qualify, applicants must meet specific criteria such as being a South African citizen, coming from a household with an annual income within the set limits, and being accepted or enrolled at a public university or TVET college.

In addition, students must meet academic performance standards to continue receiving support. When applying, you will need to provide essential documents like a certified copy of your ID, proof of household income, academic records, and proof of acceptance or registration. Having these ready before the application period opens will make the process smoother and faster.

Whether you are applying for the first time or reapplying for continued support, understanding the NSFAS requirements is key to securing funding. Preparing early and ensuring all documents are correct can increase your chances of approval. This financial aid opportunity can open doors to higher education, so take the time to familiarise yourself with the process and submit a complete and accurate application for the 2026/2027 NSFAS bursary.

Learn more: Requirements For NSFAS 2026-2027

NSFAS Eligibility Requirements for 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

NSFAS Bursary Application Process for 2026-2027

The application process for provisionally funded NSFAS involves the following steps:

Create a profile: Create a myNSFAS account via this link: https://my.nsfas.org.za/ or download the NSFAS App on Google Play or App Store. Your ID number will be your username.
Apply now: Click on the “Apply’ tab to update your personal information and upload your application supporting documents, as indicated.
Complete: Submit your application.

What does the NSFAS bursary cover?

NSFAS will cover your costs for the following:

Accommodation
Living allowance
Learning material allowance
Personal care allowance

UNISA students will receive funding for the following:

Tuition
Books (subject to the number of modules registered)
Personal care allowance

Learn more: NSFAS Bursary Application 2026-2027

Eligible students with a disability will receive funding for:

Assistive Devices
Meals
Tuition
Transport
Tuition
Human Support
Accommodation

Students can greatly increase their chances of receiving financial support from NSFAS by fulfilling the qualifying requirements and timely submitting of required documents. Visit the NSFAS Official Website for additional information or leave your comment in the section below.

NSFAS Contact Details