The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) bursary is now open for 2026 applications. If you are a South African student in need of financial support for higher education, you can apply before the closing date of 15 November 2025. NSFAS provides funding for tuition, accommodation, transport, books, and living allowances, ensuring that financial challenges do not block your path to a university or TVET college qualification.
This guide explains who can apply for NSFAS, what the bursary covers, the required documents, and how to complete your NSFAS bursary application online.
Who Can Apply for NSFAS?
You may apply for NSFAS funding if you meet the following requirements:
- You are a South African citizen or permanent resident.
- You have a valid South African ID.
- Your combined household income is not more than R350 000 per year (or R600 000 per year if you live with a disability).
- You have been accepted to study at a public university or TVET college for 2026, or you are currently registered but not yet funded by NSFAS.
- If you are a SASSA grant recipient, you automatically qualify.
Who Cannot Apply for NSFAS?
NSFAS will not approve funding for:
- Students with household income above the required limits.
- Students who already have full study funding from another source.
- Students applying for a second undergraduate qualification or a second certificate.
- Students enrolled at private institutions.
- Students pursuing qualifications not accredited by DHET or SAQA.
- Students registered for short courses.
What Does NSFAS Cover?
University students
- Tuition fees and registration.
- Accommodation: university residence or accredited private accommodation (costs capped).
- Transport: up to R7 500 per year (within 40 km from campus).
- Living allowance: up to R15 000 per year.
- Book allowance: R5 200 per year.
- Incidental allowance: R2 900 per year (for students in catered residences).
TVET college students
- Tuition fees and registration.
- Accommodation:
- Urban: R24 000 per year.
- Peri-urban: R18 900 per year.
- Rural: R15 750 per year.
- Transport: up to R7 350 per year (within 40 km from campus).
- Living and incidental allowances as set by NSFAS.
Required Documents for NSFAS Application
When applying, prepare and upload the following documents:
- Copy of your ID document.
- Recent academic record.
- Proof of acceptance at a public university or TVET college.
- Proof of household income (payslips, affidavits, or grant documents).
- NSFAS 2026 Consent Form (to verify income and household details).
- NSFAS Declaration Form (for applicants under 34).
Depending on your situation, additional documents may be required:
- Disability Annexure Form with medical report.
- Orphan or Vulnerable Child Declaration Form.
- Retrenchment letters, death certificates, divorce decrees, or proof of legal guardianship if applicable.
How to Apply for NSFAS Bursary 2026
Follow these steps to complete your NSFAS bursary application:
- Create a myNSFAS Account
- Visit the myNSFAS portal.
- Enter your personal details, ID number, contact information, and create a secure password.
- Verify your account via email or SMS.
- Start Your Application
- Log in to your profile.
- Click on “Apply” and complete the online application form.
- Upload Supporting Documents
- Upload all required documents.
- Ensure they are clear, certified, and in the correct format.
- Submit Your Application
- Double-check all information before submitting.
- Once submitted, you can track your status on your myNSFAS profile.
How Long Does NSFAS Take to Approve?
NSFAS applications usually take a few weeks to process. You will be notified via email or SMS if your application is successful or if more documents are needed. During peak times, it may take up to six weeks.
What If Your Application Is Rejected?
If your NSFAS bursary application is not approved, you can consider:
- Bursaries and scholarships offered by companies, municipalities, or government departments.
- Student loans from banks or private lenders.
- Part-time jobs, freelancing, or crowdfunding.
Is NSFAS a Bursary or Loan?
NSFAS is primarily a bursary, meaning you don’t need to repay it if you meet academic requirements. In earlier years, funding was structured as a loan with partial repayment, but under the current system, NSFAS is a grant-based bursary for qualifying students.
How to Check Your NSFAS Application Status
- Log in to your myNSFAS account.
- Alternatively, call the NSFAS Contact Centre at 0800 067 327 or email info@nsfas.org.za.
NSFAS Contact Details
For queries about your NSFAS bursary application, use the following details:
- Tel: 0860 067 327
- Email: info@nsfas.org.za
- Website: www.nsfas.org.za
The NSFAS bursary application 2026 is your chance to access higher education without the burden of financial stress. With funding available for tuition, accommodation, books, and allowances, thousands of students can pursue their studies at public universities and TVET colleges.
Apply early, prepare your documents, and ensure you meet the eligibility criteria before the closing date of 15 November 2025.
