The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has officially opened applications for the 2026 funding cycle, inviting eligible South African students to apply for bursaries to study at public universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges.

NSFAS, established under the National Student Financial Aid Scheme Act (Act 56 of 1999), plays a critical role in ensuring that students from poor and working-class families can access and succeed in higher education.

According to NSFAS, the application window closes on 15 November 2025, and students are encouraged to submit their applications well before the deadline via the official portal at www.nsfas.org.za.

Who Qualifies for NSFAS 2026 Funding?

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

Must be a South African citizen or permanent resident.
A combined gross household income of not more than R350,000 per annum.
For persons with disabilities, the combined gross household income must not exceed R600,000 per annum.
Must be planning to study at or currently enrolled in one of South Africa’s 26 public universities or 50 TVET colleges.
Applicants must not already be funded by NSFAS.

NSFAS funding covers tuition fees, accommodation, study materials, transport, and living allowances, depending on the institution and program of study.

The scheme also ensures sustainability by collecting repayments from past student loans, which helps replenish the fund for future beneficiaries.

How to apply for NSFAS 2026 applications online, what documents you’ll need, and the mistakes to avoid.

Step 1: Check if You Qualify for NSFAS 2026 Applications

Before starting, make sure you meet the NSFAS eligibility requirements. You can apply if you are:

A South African citizen with a valid ID number.
Planning to register at a public university or TVET college in 2026.
From a household with a combined annual income of R350 000 or less (or R600,000 if you have a disability).
A first-time applicant or returning student who hasn’t previously applied for NSFAS funding.

Step 2: Create Your myNSFAS Account

To apply online, you need a myNSFAS account. This is where you’ll submit your application, upload documents, and track your status.

Go to the official NSFAS website: www.nsfas.org.za.
Click on myNSFAS at the top of the page.
Select Register if you don’t already have an account.
Enter your personal details as they appear on your ID.
Provide a valid email address and cellphone number (make sure they’re active NSFAS will send updates here.
Create a secure password and confirm your details.
Check your email and SMS for a One-Time Pin (OTP) and use it to verify your account.

Tip: Use your own email and cellphone number, not your parents or a friend’s, so you don’t miss important messages.

Step 3: Log In and Start Your NSFAS 2026 Application

Once your account is ready:

Log in to your myNSFAS account.
Click Apply and carefully fill in all the required details.
Make sure your information matches your supporting documents (no spelling mistakes or incorrect ID numbers).

Step 4: Upload the Required Supporting Documents

Your application will not be processed without the correct documents. For NSFAS 2026 Applications, you’ll usually need:

A certified copy of your South African ID (or Smart ID card).
Proof of household income:
- If parents/guardians are employed: recent payslips or employment letters.
- If self-employed: an affidavit.
- If unemployed: an affidavit confirming unemployment.
For applicants with disabilities: a completed Disability Annexure A form.
If you are an orphan: a Death Certificate of your parent(s) or a letter from Social Services.
If you receive a SASSA grant, no proof of income is needed (NSFAS automatically verifies this).

All documents should be clear, certified, and in PDF or JPEG format before uploading.

Step 5: Submit Your Application

Once you’ve completed all the fields and uploaded your documents, click Submit.
You’ll get an application reference number — keep it safe as proof.
You’ll also receive confirmation by SMS and email.

FAQs About NSFAS 2026 Applications

1. When is the closing date for NSFAS 2026 applications?
The application deadline is 15 November 2025.

2. Who is eligible to apply for NSFAS funding?
South African citizens or permanent residents with a household income of R350,000 or less per annum (R600,000 for persons with disabilities).

3. What costs does NSFAS cover?
NSFAS typically funds tuition, accommodation, learning materials, meals, and transport allowances, depending on the institution and program.

4. Can current students apply?
Yes. Current students at any of the 26 public universities or 50 TVET colleges can apply if they are not already funded by NSFAS.

5. How do I apply?
Applications must be submitted online at www.nsfas.org.za.