NSFAS Applications are OPEN for 2026

 

The long wait is over – NSFAS applications have finally opened! Apply before the closing date of 15 November 2025.

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a programme created by the South African government, that provides financial assistance to students who cannot afford to pay for their studies. The programme provides funding for tuition, accommodation, books, and other study-related expenses, making it possible for more students to attend public universities and TVET colleges. NSFAS aims to ensure that financial challenges don’t stop you from achieving your academic dreams.

Before you apply for NSFAS funding, there is some important information you should know. Read below to find out Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) and answers about NSFAS.
 

1. Who can apply for NSFAS funding?

To qualify for NSFAS funding, you must:

  • You must be a South African citizen or permanent resident in South Africa
  • You must have a valid South African ID
  • You must have a combined gross household income does NOT more than R350 000 per annum OR R600 000 per annum if living with a disability
  • You must have been accepted to study at a public university or TVET college in South Africa, for the 2026 academic yea OR you must be currently registered at a public university or TVET college in South Africa, but are not yet funded by NSFAS
  • SASSA grant recipients automatically qualify

 

2. Who CANNOT apply for NSFAS funding?

The following students will unfortunately NOT be able to receive NSFAS funding:

  • Students with a combined household income of MORE than R350 000 per annum OR R600 000 per annum if living with a disability
  • Students who have received FULL study funding from a source other than NSFAS
  • Students who have already completed an undergraduate qualification and want to study a second undergraduate qualification
  • Students who have achieved a certificate qualification and wants to study a second certificate qualification
  • Students who are studying short courses
  • Students who are studying at a private institution
  • Students who are enrolled for qualifications that are not approved by DHET and/or SAQA accredited

 

3. Does NSFAS fund all courses/ study programmes?

NSFAS funding covers most accredited programs offered at public universities and TVET colleges, including undergraduate degrees, diplomas, and some vocational programs.

Students who are current NSFAS recipients will automatically be funded for the duration of their studies provided they pass their modules and meet the academic requirements.
 

4. What expenses does NSFAS cover?

NSFAS can cover the following expenses, depending on the type of institution you will be attending:
University studies:

  • Accommodation (the actual costs charged by the university – costs for private accommodation must not exceed costs for university residence)
  • Transport (up to 40 km from institution): capped at R7 500 per annum
  • Living allowance: capped at R15 000 per annum
  • Book allowances: capped at R5 200 per annum
  • Incidental/ personal care allowance: capped at R2900 per annum for students in catered residences

TVET studies:

  • Accommodation in an urban area: capped at R24 000 per annum
  • Accommodation in an peri-urban area: capped at R18 900 per annum
  • Accommodation in an rural area: capped at R15 750 per annum
  • Transport (up to 40 km from institution): capped at R7 350 per annum
  • Transport: capped at R7 000 per annum
  • Incidental/ personal care allowance: capped at R2900 per annum

 

5. How do I apply for NSFAS funding?

  • Visit the myNSFAS web page
  • Start by creating a profile – you will fill in your full name (as stated on your ID document), ID number, marital status, disability status, race, province where you reside, your home town, email address and phone number, you will need to agree to NSFAS’s terms and conditions and lastly you will select a password
  • After creating your profile and verifying your account, you can proceed to login
  • After logging in, you should complete the online application form
  • The next step is to upload your supporting documents
  • Lastly, make sure you submit your application before the closing date

 

6. What documents will I need when applying for NSFAS funding?

After creating your NSFAS profile, you will be requested to upload your supporting documents. All applicants will be required to submit the following documents

  • Copy of ID document
  • Most recent academic record
  • Proof of acceptance into University or TVET College
  • Proof of household income
  • NSFAS 2026 Consent form: NSFAS has the right to validate all information and details provided by the applicant and parent/guardian/spouse against independent third party data source. (download here)
  • NSFAS Declaration form: submit this form if you are 34 years old or younger. This form is used to verify parental or guardian details. (download here)

The following documents may also be required, depending on your circumstances:
Students with disabilities: submit a completed and signed Disability Annexure Form if you are living with a disability. Make sure that the medical report is merged with this disability annexure when you create a file to submit with your application. (download here)

If an Orphan or Vulnerable Child – Declaration form: submit this form if you are an orphan under the age of 18 OR you are a vulnerable child that has been exposed to abuse, neglect, exploitation, risk of violence and substance abuse. (download here)

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

 

7. How long does it take for NSFAS to approve my funding?

After submitting your application, NSFAS generally takes a few weeks to process it. You will be notified via email or SMS whether your application is successful or if more documents are needed.
 

8. What happens if I my NSFAS funding application is rejected or does not cover all fees?

If you are not approved, you can explore alternative funding options or top up your funding with:

  • Bursaries and Scholarships (these are awarded by companies, government departments, municipalities and universities) (see which bursaries are open for application here)
  • Student loans from banks or private lenders
  • Part-time work, freelance opportunities, or family support
  • Crowdfunding options for tuition and living expenses

 

9. Is NSFAS funding a loan or a grant?

NSFAS funding is a bursary, which means it does not have to be repaid if you pass your course. However, if you fail or drop out without valid reasons, some funding may need to be repaid.
 

10. How can I check my NSFAS application status?

Log in to your myNSFAS account or contact the NSFAS Call Centre at 0800 067 327.
 

11. Can international students apply for NSFAS?

No. NSFAS funding is only available to South African citizens or permanent residents.
 

CONTACT NSFAS

For any queries related to this bursary programme, please contact NSFAS directly:
Tel: 0860 067 327
Email: info@nsfas.org.za
 

This page was last updated in September 2025.

SA Bursaries wishes you the best of luck with your application! Please remember to SHARE this page with anyone you know who may be in need of bursary funding.