What Are The Requirements To Qualify For NSFAS 2026/2027

What Are The Requirements To Qualify For NSFAS 2026/2027

What Are The Requirements To Qualify For NSFAS 2026/2027

Are you planning to study in 2026/2027 and need financial support from NSFAS? If so, it is important to know the requirements you must meet to qualify for funding. As the new academic year approaches, thousands of students across South Africa are preparing to apply for financial aid. The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) remains one of the main sources of funding for students from low-income and working-class families, helping them cover tuition fees, accommodation, learning materials, and other study-related costs.

Whether you are applying for the first time or renewing your application, knowing the eligibility criteria is the first step towards a successful application. Meeting all the requirements will make the process smoother and increase your chances of approval. To be eligible for NSFAS funding for the 2026/2027 academic year, you must meet specific specifications. Applicants need to be South African citizens or permanent residents, enrolled or planning to enrol at a public university or TVET college.

You must also come from a household with a combined annual income not exceeding the set NSFAS threshold. In addition, applicants must provide the necessary supporting documents, such as a certified copy of their ID, proof of household income, and academic records. By knowing and meeting these requirements before the application period opens, you can avoid delays and ensure your application is processed without issues.

Learn more: How To Qualify For NSFAS 2026

Eligibility Criteria for NSFAS 2026/2027

To qualify for NSFAS 2026, applicants typically need to meet the following criteria:

• 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.

Who is not qualified to apply for NSFAS

• Students who have completed a previous qualification.
• Students with a combined household income of more than R350,000 per annum.
• Students who have already applied, qualified, and received funding. They are automatically funded for the duration of their studies, provided they pass their modules and meet the academic requirements.

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.

What Are The Requirements To Qualify For NSFAS 2026/2027

NSFAS Application Procedure for 2026-2027

Below is a comprehensive guide that will help you easily follow the National Student Financial Aid Scheme application process by providing all the necessary information.

Getting the Necessary Documents

• Collect the necessary paperwork for the application procedure, including your school or university admission letter, a certified copy of your ID, and evidence of your income for yourself or your guardian.

Qualifications for NSFAS Registration

• Make sure that you meet the NSFAS eligibility requirements before applying.
• To be eligible, a person must normally meet certain requirements, such as being a citizen of South Africa, being enrolled in or accepted into a public university or TVET college, and having a recognized qualification.

How to utilize the NSFAS Application

• Find the application section by visiting the NSFAS portal or website. Register for an account, or sign in with an existing account.
• To obtain the application for the 2026-2027 school year, follow the instructions. www.nsfas.org.za apply

Fill out the Application Form.

• Complete the application form with precision and thoroughness. Make sure the information is accurate and up to date, and include any pertinent facts.
• Prepare yourself to enter personal, academic, and financial data as needed. www.nsfas.org.za apply

Learn more: How Much Must I Earn To Qualify For NSFAS 2026

Putting in the Application

• Please submit your application online after filling it out and attaching the required files.
• For your records, make sure you obtain an application reference number or a confirmation of submission.

Verify the Status of Your Application and Follow Up

• Utilizing your application reference number or login information, follow up on the status of your application once it has been submitted.
• This will assist you in being updated on any changes or new prerequisites that may be required to process your application

Students can increase their chances of receiving financial aid for their academic endeavours by being aware of and meeting these standards. Visit the NSFAS official website for additional information.

Contact Details Of NSFAS

For general and student enquiries:

For all other queries regarding students:
Tel No.: 08000 67327
Email: info@nsfas.org.za

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