NSFAS 2026 Applications Open on 16 September 2025
Students planning to study in 2026 can now apply for NSFAS funding. The Minister of Higher Education and Training announced the opening on 15 September 2025. Applications run from 16 September 2025 to 15 November 2025. You must apply online through the myNSFAS portal. This helps new and returning students access public higher education.
As of 3 October 2025, the application window is active. Apply early to avoid technical issues at the end. This ensures quick processing of your application.
Who Can Apply: Eligibility Criteria
NSFAS offers bursaries (non-repayable) and loans (repayable). Each has specific rules. Funding covers only approved programmes at public institutions registered on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF).
Private institutions and unaccredited programmes do not qualify. NSFAS supports community colleges and universities.
General Requirements
- You must be a South African citizen or permanent resident with a valid South African ID.
- You plan to register or have registered at a public university or TVET college for the 2026 academic year.
- You follow an undergraduate qualification, TVET programme (such as NC(V) or Report 191/NATED), or for loans, postgraduate studies.
- You do not exceed the N+ rule (normal study duration plus extra years for completion, plus allowances for disability or valid appeals).
- You receive no full funding from another source or sponsor (partial funding may adjust).
Financial Eligibility
- Bursaries: Your combined household income must not exceed R350,000 per year. For students with disabilities, the limit is R600,000. SASSA grant recipients (except child support grants) qualify automatically on financial grounds.
- Loans: For “missing middle” students, household income must fall between R350,001 and R600,000 per year. Loans prioritise STEM fields (70% allocation). They can convert to bursaries up to 50% if academic performance exceeds 70%.
Academic Eligibility
- First-time applicants: You must meet the admission requirements of your chosen institution.
- Continuing students: You must achieve progression requirements, such as passing a minimum percentage of modules (for example, 60% for loans).
- Funding does not cover repeated modules at the same level or unapproved programmes by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) or South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
Students with disabilities, orphans, or those from child-headed households may get extra consideration. Provide supporting proof for these cases.
How to Apply for NSFAS 2026
The application process is fully online via the myNSFAS portal. This makes it accessible without paper forms. You need a valid email address and cell phone number to create an account.
NSFAS verifies details against government databases for accuracy.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Visit the Official Website: Go to www.nsfas.org.za. Click on the “myNSFAS” tab to create or log into your account.
- Create a myNSFAS Account: Use your South African ID number as the username. Enter your full name (as on ID), email, and cell number. Accept the terms and conditions to verify data.
- Complete the Application Form: Log in and fill sections with personal details, education info, household income, and dependants. Specify if you apply for a bursary or loan.
- Upload Supporting Documents: The system requests files based on your profile (for example, SASSA vs. non-SASSA).
- Review and Submit: Double-check all details for accuracy, then submit. You will receive a reference number via email or SMS.
- Track Your Application: Return to the portal to check status (such as “Submitted,” “Under Review,” “Approved”). Upload missing documents quickly if needed.
- Sign the Agreement: If approved, sign the official NSFAS Bursary or Loan Agreement to finalise funding.
If your application fails, appeal online with supporting evidence (such as special academic or financial circumstances). Processing may take a few weeks, so apply early.
Required Documents
Documents must be certified copies (not older than three months). Upload them as PDF files during application. NSFAS verifies all info with external sources.
The NSFAS Consent Form is compulsory. Parents, guardians, or spouses must complete it to allow income checks and employment verification.
Common Required Documents
- Proof of Identity: Certified copy of your South African ID or birth certificate (if under 18). IDs of parents, guardians, or spouse.
- Proof of Income: Recent payslips, employment letters, or affidavits (if unemployed) from parents, guardians, or spouse. SASSA grant letters (if applicable). Bank statements or UIF documents.
- Consent and Declaration Forms: NSFAS Consent Form (compulsory for non-SASSA recipients). NSFAS Declaration Form (to confirm details). Orphan/Child-Headed Household Declaration Form (if applicable).
- Proof of Disability: Completed Disability Annexure Form and medical report from a registered doctor.
- Educational Documents: Proof of registration or admission letter from the institution. Academic transcripts for continuing students.
- Other: Proof of guardianship (court order if applicable), death certificates (for orphans), or divorce decrees (if relevant).
SASSA recipients often need fewer documents, as financial eligibility is automatic. Ensure all files are clear and readable to avoid delays.
Closing Date and Extra Tips
The NSFAS 2026 application deadline is 15 November 2025. Late applications are not accepted, so submit early.
- Tips: Use a reliable internet connection and keep your reference number safe. Contact NSFAS at 08000 67327 or email [email protected] for help. Check the official website often for updates.
- What NSFAS Covers: Bursaries and loans support tuition, registration, living allowances, books, travel, and accommodation (up to location-based limits).
- Loan Repayments: Start after employment, based on income terms; bursaries are grants and do not repay.
NSFAS empowers millions of students. Make sure your application is complete and correct to secure your 2026 spot.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When do I apply for NSFAS 2026?
Applications opened on 16 September 2025. They remain open from October 2025.
How do I apply for NSFAS 2026?
Follow the step-by-step process on the myNSFAS portal as described above. Ensure you have all correct documents.
What is the NSFAS application deadline?
The deadline is 15 November 2025.
Which colleges offer NSFAS?
All public universities and TVET colleges in South Africa qualify for NSFAS funding.
What is the NSFAS 2026 allowance amount?
2026 allowances are not finalised yet but expected to match 2025: Living allowance around R1,500–R1,716 per month (R15,000–R17,160 per year), plus books and accommodation.
Which colleges are open for 2026?
Many, including UKZN, Unisa, CUT, TUT, Tshwane South TVET, Ehlanzeni TVET, and Central Johannesburg TVET. Check individual websites for exact deadlines.
How do I apply for the NSFAS laptop 2025?
If funded, download the DLD form from your institution’s Finance Office, complete it, and pay online.
Is NSFAS a loan or bursary?
Both: Bursaries for low-income students (non-repayable); loans for missing middle (repayable, with possible conversion).
Can NSFAS fund me for six years?
It depends on your qualification. Under the N+2 rule, a four-year degree can get up to six years if you meet progression requirements.
How do I apply for NSFAS accommodation allowance 2025?
Check your funding status on myNSFAS. If approved, accommodation allowances disburse automatically; apply for approved options online.
Will NSFAS open for second semester in 2025?
Yes, TVET colleges opened Semester 2 applications in July 2025 for 2025 registrations.
Which TVET colleges offer teaching courses?
Examples include False Bay TVET (ECD and Educare), Ekurhuleni West TVET, Tshwane South TVET, Boland TVET, and Buffalo City TVET.
How do I apply for late NSFAS?
No, late applications are not accepted after the deadline. Apply before 15 November 2025 for 2026.
Related Resources
For more education and planning sources, check these guides:
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