NSFAS application 2026/2027: Deadline, requirements, qualifications

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has helped students with limited financial access realise their dreams. NSFAS is funded by the Department of Higher Education and Training. To ensure more students get funding for their education, here is everything you need to know about the NSFAS application for 2026/2027.

Key takeaways

• NSFAS offers financial aid to students from poor and working-class backgrounds who attend public institutions of higher learning.
• Currently, 50 TVET colleges and 26 public universities are considered for NSFAS.
• All applications must be made through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme portal.
• Application for the 2026 academic year has officially closed. The deadline was 15 November 2025.

NSFAS application for 2026/2027

NSFAS provides financial assistance to eligible South African students from disadvantaged backgrounds to fund their higher education. To apply for 2026/2027, you must submit the required documents online through the NSFAS portal.

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When are NSFAS applications opening for 2026?

NSFAS applications for the 2026 academic year are closed. Applications opened in mid-September 2025 and closed on 15 November 2025. It is worth noting that late NSFAS applications for 2026 will not be processed.

NFSAS online application for 2026/2027

The online application process can be done in the comfort of your home or office using a smartphone, tablet or computer. Here are the simple steps on how to apply for NSFAS.

• Visit the NFSAS application portal.
• Create a myNSFAS account and keep your NSFAS login details safe.
• Go to the application tab, then enter the required details.
• Upload the necessary documents.
• Select the submit button.
• After making your submission, you will receive a reference number as proof that the application has been submitted successfully.

Note: For students without internet or the necessary gadgets, go to the nearest National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) or Thusong Centre for assistance.

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Who qualifies for the NASFAS grant?

Every applicant must meet certain requirements; failure to do so will result in the applicant not being considered for financial aid. They include:

• A citizen of South Africa
• A permanent resident in possession of a valid Permanent Residency Permit from the Department of Home Affairs
• First-time and returning students at a public university or TVET college
• Recipients of the SASSA grant, but the Covid-19 SASSA grant is not considered
• Students from families earning a total of no more than R600,000 a year.
• People with disabilities whose total family income is no more than R600,000 a year.

NSFAS application form

The NSFAS application form can be accessed and completed online via the NSFAS website. Alternatively, you can visit an NSFAS office or designated locations to obtain a hard copy. Ensure you fill in all required sections and upload the necessary documents.

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NSFAS documents needed for application in 2026/2027

Students must attach supporting documents that prove their eligibility for the NSFAS application. The documents help the National Student Financial Aid Scheme determine who qualifies for the grant. The NSFAS documents needed for the application are listed below.

• A copy of your identification card. For the Smart ID cards, the student should attach a copy of both sides.
• A temporary ID from the Department of Home Affairs
• Legal guardian(s), spouse(s), or parent(s) identification copies are required for non-SASSA applicants.
• Students need to provide proof of income. This can include a pay-slip from the last three months, a UIF letter, an appointment letter, or a retrenchment letter for themselves or their parents, legal guardians, or partners.

NSFAS contact details

You can contact NSFAS through the following means:

• Toll-Free Number: 0800 067 327
• Email: info@nsfas.org.za
• WhatsApp: 061 309 0628
• X: @myNSFAS

Does child grant affect NSFAS?

Receiving a child support grant does not negatively affect your NSFAS eligibility. If your family is reliant on SASSA grants, this can strengthen your application as it demonstrates financial need. NSFAS prioritises students from low-income households.

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When can you apply for NSFAS for 2026?

Applications for 2026 closed on 15 November 2025. If you have been wondering how to make a late NSFAS application in 2026, you may have to wait until the 2026 opening for the 2027 provision.

Has NSFAS started paying for 2026?

NSFAS has not started paying for the 2026 academic year. The application process for 2026 was recently concluded, and funding decisions are underway.

Will NSFAS be open for the second semester in 2026?

Sometimes, NSFAS opens separate windows for TVET College Semester 2 funding. It is not confirmed whether this will happen in 2026.

South African students have several post-secondary education options regardless of income. Many students will benefit from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme in the future. The NSFAS application process concluded on 15 November 2025.

Briefly.co.za published the application dates for SA universities. If you recently completed your secondary education, the next step is to find a higher learning institution where you can pursue your dream course.

The universities have varying academic years and open the application window at different times. Knowing when the process needs to be done will help you plan and also avoid missing the chances of getting into your dream university.

Source: Briefly News