The NSFAS Application 2026 period is now open. Applications started on 17 September 2025 and will close on 15 November 2025. This is the opportunity for students who want to study at a South African university or TVET college in 2026 but need financial support.
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) provides bursary funding that covers tuition, accommodation, allowances, and more. Unlike a loan, NSFAS is structured as a bursary and only requires repayment once you’ve completed your studies and secured employment.
If you are planning to apply, here’s a complete breakdown of the NSFAS Application 2026 process, requirements, and documents you’ll need.
NSFAS Application Dates 2026
- Opening Date: 17 September 2025
- Closing Date: 15 November 2025
Make sure to apply before the deadline to avoid missing out.
Requirements for NSFAS Application 2026
To qualify for NSFAS in 2026, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be a South African citizen with a valid ID book or smart card.
- Combined household income must be R350,000 or less per year.
- For students with disabilities, household income must be R600,000 or less per year.
- You must have passed Grade 12 at a recognized institution.
- You should be applying to study at a public university or TVET college.
What NSFAS Funding Covers
NSFAS does not only pay tuition. If approved, your bursary may include:
- Registration and tuition fees
- Allowance for food
- Allowance for learning materials
- Personal care allowance
- Accommodation (if applicable)
- Travel costs (if applicable)
Supporting Documents for NSFAS Application 2026
When submitting your application, you’ll need the following:
- Certified copy of your ID or birth certificate
- Certified ID copies of parents, guardian(s), or spouse
- Proof of income: IRP5 or payslip for parents/guardians/spouse (not required if you are a SASSA grant recipient)
- Disability Annexure A form (if applicable)
- Vulnerable Child Declaration Form (if applicable)
- Additional documents if relevant:
- Retrenchment letter
- Death certificate(s)
- Divorce decree
How to Apply for NSFAS 2026
You must create a myNSFAS account to complete your application. Here’s the step-by-step process:
- Visit the NSFAS website.
- Click Register.
- Accept the terms to verify your details.
- Enter your ID number, full name, surname, email address, and cellphone number.
- Create and confirm your password.
- Upload a copy of your ID.
- Click Register to complete the profile setup.
- Enter the OTP (One-Time Pin) sent to your email and cellphone.
- Once confirmed, log in to your account and complete the NSFAS application form.
- Upload the required documents and submit your application.
You will receive confirmation via SMS and email once your application is successfully submitted.
Who Cannot Apply for NSFAS 2026?
Not all students are eligible. NSFAS does not fund the following:
- Students already funded from another full bursary.
- Students who have completed an undergraduate qualification.
- Students applying for a second qualification at the same level.
- Students studying at private institutions.
- Students enrolled in courses not accredited by DHET or SAQA.
Apply Now for NSFAS 2026
If you are not funded for the 2025 academic year, now is the time to apply. Don’t wait until the last minute.
- Visit: NSFAS Application 2026 – Apply Here
- Log in or create your myNSFAS account
- Complete the form and upload the required documents
- Submit before 15 November 2025
For further help, email info@nsfas.org.za or check the official NSFAS FAQ page.
