NSFAS reference number in South Africa: How to get it today
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a South African government student financial aid scheme. It provides financial aid to undergraduate students to further their studies to the tertiary level after finishing high school. NSFAS covers tuition fees, accommodation fees, transport fees, and various allowances. This post provides a simple, step-by-step guide on how to obtain your NSFAS reference number in South Africa.
Source: Original
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Key takeaways
- What is my NSFAS reference number in South Africa in 2026?
- What does NSFAS stand for?
- Where can you apply for NSFAS?
- Is NSFAS available for foreign students?
- NSFAS status check using reference number?
- How do I know if NSFAS has approved my application?
- What are NSFAS numbers?
- Is it safe to share your NSFAS reference number?
- Do we reapply for NSFAS every year?
Key takeaways
- NSFAS is an excellent place to explore if you are a South African student searching for financial support to further your studies.
- You must first obtain a reference number before applying for funding.
- This number is used to identify your account and the status of your application.
What is my NSFAS reference number in South Africa in 2026?
The NSFAS reference number is a unique number generated by the National Student Financial Aid Scheme immediately after you apply for funding. The reference number is sent to the email address you provided during your application process. It serves as official documentation that your application was received by NSFAS.
How to get the NSFAS reference number
Source: UGC
The NSFAS application reference number is essential because you will need to use it whenever you want to make queries to NSFAS. So, if you are wondering how to check the NSFAS reference number in South Africa? Follow these three easy steps to get the NSFAS reference number.
- Go to www.nsfas.org.za.
- Create MyNSFAS account.
- After completing the application, NSFAS will send a reference number through email or SMS to the phone number you used to create your account.
Note: If you do not receive your NSFAS reference number, that means your application was not submitted successfully.
How do I find my NSFAS reference number?
Here are four ways to find your NSFAS reference number.
- Log in to your MyNSFAS Account, and your reference number will be displayed on your dashboard.
- Log in to your email address to find the reference number sent to you by NSFAS.
- Check your SMS book via cell phone to retrieve your NSFAS reference number.
- Contact NSFAS via social media or email to help you retrieve your reference number.
Example of an NSFAS reference number
If you are wondering what a reference number is and how to identify it, here is an example of how a reference number sent by NSFAS should look: OB7012973.
How do I activate my NSFAS student portal?
To activate your NSFAS student portal, follow these steps:
- Visit the NSFAS website.
- Click on the “MyNSFAS" button at the page's top right corner.
- Click on “Register” and provide the required personal information.
- Create a unique username and password.
- Check your email for a verification link and activate your account.
If you encounter any issues during the activation process, do not hesitate to contact the National Student Financial Aid Scheme support at 0860 067 327 or info@nsfas.org.za.
How do I upload a reference to NSFAS?
Source: UGC
To upload a reference to NSFAS, you must upload supporting documents on the National Student Financial Aid Scheme portal. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to upload documents to NSFAS properly:
- Visit the NSFAS website.
- Log in to your MyNSFAS account using your username and password.
- Click on the “Upload Outstanding Supporting Documents” button.
- A window will appear on your screen that requires you to upload the necessary supporting information.
- Select the document files and click on “Submit Documents”.
- Wait for feedback that reads “Outstanding Documents have been Successfully Uploaded”.
Does the NSFAS reference number expire?
NSFAS reference numbers do not expire. Once you receive your unique NSFAS reference number by email or SMS, it is valid for the duration of your application process.
What does NSFAS stand for?
NSFAS stands for National Student Financial Aid Scheme. It is a South African government initiative that provides financial assistance to eligible students who cannot afford tertiary education.
Where can you apply for NSFAS?
The undergraduate students who want to get funds for their tertiary education after finishing high school should apply for the National Financial Aid Scheme funding online by visiting the website.
Is NSFAS available for foreign students?
According to the National Student Financial Aid Scheme, foreign students are not eligible for funding.
NSFAS status check using reference number?
You can check your NSFAS application status by logging into the myNSFAS portal and entering your reference number. The system will display whether your application is submitted, approved, provisionally funded, or declined.
How do I know if NSFAS has approved my application?
NSFAS notifies successful applicants via SMS and email, and the status on the myNSFAS portal will show “Approved” or “Provisionally Funded.” You may also see details of allowances once funding is confirmed.
What are NSFAS numbers?
NSFAS numbers usually refer to the NSFAS reference number or ticket number used to track your application or queries. These numbers help NSFAS identify your records quickly.
Source: UGC
Is it safe to share your NSFAS reference number?
It is generally safe to share your reference number with NSFAS officials or your institution only. Avoid sharing it publicly or with unknown people to prevent misuse of your personal information.
Do we reapply for NSFAS every year?
No, continuing students do not need to reapply every year if they meet academic progression rules. You only reapply if your funding was stopped or if NSFAS requires a new application.
NSFAS is a government-sponsored student aid programme that provides financial assistance to students who have graduated from high school. Obtaining an NSFAS reference number in South Africa is the first step towards accessing funding for your studies. By following the simple step-by-step guide above, you can easily create an account, complete your profile, and apply for funding.
DISCLAIMER: This article is not sponsored by any third party. It is intended for general informational purposes only and does not address individual circumstances. It is not a substitute for professional advice or help and should not be relied on to make decisions. Any action you take upon the information presented in this article is strictly at your own risk and responsibility.
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Rodah Mogeni (Lifestyle writer) She is a content creator with more than 4 years of experience. She graduated from Chuka University with a BA degree in Journalism and Mass Communication (2023). She joined Briefly in 2019. Rodah has been working as a health/fitness writer at BetterMe (since 2020), London Brokers, The Hoth, and Ardor Content. In 2023, Rodah finished the AFP course on Digital Investigation Techniques. Her email is rodahmugeni998@gmail.com
John Ouma (Lifestyle writer) John Ouma is a journalist with six years of experience. He has published sharply argued think pieces that live at the intersection of power, politics, and society. He was awarded the FirstGen scholarship by Biola University and a merit-based scholarship by AMDA College and Conservatory of the Performing Arts in January 2021. He has worked for The Standard and Nation Africa as an opinion columnist between 2018 and 2022. He is currently working on his first novel—a literary fiction that traces the life of a contemporary Kenyan artist. Email: gervasjohn97@gmail.com
