Apply for NSFAS Funding 2026 | All Information You Need is Here

NSFAS Funding 2026, How to create a myNSFAS online account, documents needed, who can apply, when to apply, how to apply, requirements, contact details, and other important information are published below.

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a lifeline for thousands of financially disadvantaged South African students seeking access to tertiary education. Whether you’re applying for the first time or returning for a new academic year, this guide walks you through the full NSFAS application process for 2026, covering requirements, documents, deadlines, tips, and how to avoid common mistakes.

What Is NSFAS?

NSFAS is a government-funded bursary scheme that provides financial support to eligible South African students who want to study at public universities or TVET colleges. It covers:

• Registration and tuition fees
• Accommodation
• Transport
• Living allowance
• Book and personal care allowances

Unlike loans, NSFAS funding does not require repayment — it’s a bursary if you pass your modules and complete your studies.

When Will NSFAS Applications for 2026 Open?

Expected opening date: September/October 2025
Expected closing date: 31 January 2026

Exact dates will be confirmed on the NSFAS website and social media platforms. You are encouraged to apply as early as possible.

Who Can Apply for NSFAS in 2026?

You may apply if you meet all of the following:

• You are a South African citizen.
• You’re applying to a public university or TVET college.
• Your combined household income is less than R350,000 per year.
• If you are disabled, your household income must be less than R600,000.
• You are either:
  • A Grade 12 learner in 2025, or
  • Already registered at a university or college and need funding

NSFAS does not fund:

• Private college/university students
• Students pursuing short courses or part-time qualifications

Required Documents for NSFAS 2026 Application

Before applying, make sure you have the following documents:

For All Applicants:

• Copy of your ID document or smart card
• Your parents’ or guardian’s ID documents
• Proof of household income (payslips or affidavits)
• Your phone number and email address

If applicable:

• SASSA recipients: Provide your SASSA card number (no proof of income needed)
• Orphans: Death certificates of parents
• Disability applicants: Completed Disability Annexure A form
• Students with unemployed parents: Sworn affidavits

📝 Tip: Scan or photograph all documents clearly before uploading them.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for NSFAS in 2026

STEP 1: Create a myNSFAS Account

1. Visit the official NSFAS website: https://www.nsfas.org.za
2. Click on “myNSFAS” at the top right corner.
3. Select “Register” and provide the following:
   • ID number
   • Full name
   • Surname
   • Valid email address and cellphone number
4. Choose a secure password and verify your details
5. Click “Register” – you’ll receive a verification SMS or email

✅ Important: Keep your login details safe. You’ll need them to track your application.

STEP 2: Login to Apply

1. Return to https://www.nsfas.org.za
2. Click on myNSFAS login
3. Enter your ID number and password to access your dashboard

STEP 3: Start the Online Application

1. Click “Apply” on your dashboard
2. Fill out the application form with the required personal and academic details
3. Upload your supporting documents one by one
4. Review the details for accuracy

STEP 4: Submit Your Application

• After uploading documents and checking everything, click “Submit”
• A confirmation screen will appear. You’ll receive a reference number via SMS or email.

📧 Save this number! You’ll use it to follow up on your application.

How to Track Your NSFAS 2026 Application Status

1. Go to: https://www.nsfas.org.za
2. Login to your myNSFAS account
3. Click on “Track Application”
4. You’ll see one of the following statuses:

• Application Submitted
• Filtering – checking if you meet requirements
• Validation – verifying documents with third parties
• Evaluation – checking academic and financial eligibility
• Funding Eligible
• Awaiting Academic Results / Admission
• Application Approved / Rejected

What If You Need to Change or Update Your Application?

You can edit certain fields before the closing date, such as:

• Contact information
• Uploaded documents (if you missed one)
• Academic institution or course

To update:

1. Login to your myNSFAS portal
2. Navigate to the relevant section
3. Click Edit, then save changes

Application Tips to Avoid Rejection

1. Apply early – avoid last-minute server crashes.
2. Use accurate contact details – don’t use a school or relative’s email.
3. Ensure documents are clear – blurry uploads may lead to delays.
4. Don’t submit multiple applications – apply once per academic year.
5. Check your messages regularly – NSFAS will contact you if something’s missing.

What Does NSFAS Cover in 2026?

Expense Type	University Student	TVET Student
Tuition	Full coverage	Full coverage
Registration Fees	Yes	Yes
Accommodation	On/Off-campus covered	On-campus or transport
Transport	R7,500 per year (if off-campus)	R7,000 per year
Living Allowance	R15,000 per year	R2,900 per year
Learning Materials	R5,200 per year	R5,200 per year
Personal Care	R3,045 per year	R2,900 per year

💬 Figures may change for 2026 based on government funding adjustments.

Can I Reapply if I Was Previously Rejected?

Yes, you can reapply during the next cycle. However, be sure to:

• Fix the issue that led to your rejection (e.g., missing documents)
• Provide updated academic transcripts or affidavits if needed

You can also appeal a rejection on the myNSFAS portal, usually within 30 days of the rejection notice.

Where Can You Study with NSFAS?

You can use NSFAS at any public university or TVET college in South Africa.

✅ Public Universities (Examples):

• University of Johannesburg (UJ)
• University of Cape Town (UCT)
• University of Pretoria (UP)
• Stellenbosch University (SU)
• Walter Sisulu University (WSU)
• Durban University of Technology (DUT)
• … and more (all 26 public universities)

✅ TVET Colleges (Examples):

• Ekurhuleni East TVET College
• Northlink College
• Tshwane South TVET College
• Coastal TVET College
• West Coast TVET College
• … and more

❌ NSFAS does not fund private institutions or international studies.

Official NSFAS Contact & Support

• Website: https://www.nsfas.org.za
• Toll-Free Number: 0800 067 327
• Email: info@nsfas.org.za
• Social Media:
  • Facebook
  • Twitter/X
  • Instagram

Final Thoughts

NSFAS is a game-changer for thousands of South African students — but only if you apply correctly and on time. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to secure your future. Gather your documents, set up your myNSFAS account, and submit your application as early as possible.

Your dreams are valid. Let NSFAS help you achieve them.

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