How to Apply for NSFAS Application For 2026

NSFAS Opening Date For 2026 Applications

How to Apply for NSFAS Application For 2026

How to Apply for NSFAS Application For 2026, www.nsfas.org.za/apply-2026

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is back for the 2026 academic year. This South African government-funded initiative aims to support students who wish to enroll or are currently enrolled in South African universities and TVET colleges. The NSFAS application period is open from September 1st, 2025, to January 31st, 2026. Students can access the application form at www.nsfas.org.za

Applicants should be aware of the application deadlines and submit their applications promptly, as late submissions—whether online or manual—will not be accepted once the deadline has passed.

NSFAS Application Guide for 2026

All qualified students can participate because the registration and application process is free. The steps listed will help you apply successfully

Please visit the NSFAS Application 2026 website at www.nsfas.org.za/apply-2026.
Then click on the’myNSFAS’ tab.
Create a myNSFAS account. Go HERE if you don’t know how to create the account.
Choose the ‘APPLY’ tab.
Make any necessary changes to your personal information.
Respond to the questions on the screen.
Upload any supporting documents that are required.
Finally, you click the “submit” button.

Read Also: How to appeal NSFAS rejection 2026

NSFAS Application Requirements

NSFAS funding is available to all applicants who possess a valid South African identification number, whether by birth or through legal means. This is the primary requirement for receiving NSFAS funding for the 2026 academic year. Additional criteria must be met for approval, which will be outlined in the following sections.:

All SASSA grant recipients qualify for funding
Applicants whose combined household income is not more than R350 000 per annum
A person with a disability: Combined household income must not be more than R600 000 per annum
Students who started studying before 2018 and whose household income is not more than R122 000 per annum.

NSFAS Application Documents

If you require NSFAS funding, do not throw away the following documents. Before submitting or uploading these documents online, ensure that they are original. NSFAS has removed the requirement for documents to be certified.

Copy of your student ID or Birth certificate if you don’t have the ID yet
Copy of parent/s or guardian/spouse ID (They must be south African Citizens)
Smart card: both sides of the card required
Proof of income (where applicable)
Persons living with disability (Disability Annexure A form)
An applicant who is recognised as a vulnerable child by the Department of Social Development must provide a completed Vulnerable Child Declaration form completed by a social worker
An applicant who has indicated that s/he has no family member details and/or abridged birth certificate must complete the Declaration: Non-SASSA

Academic requirements for the NSFAS bursary

To receive NSFAS funding to study at a TVET college, you must have completed Grades 9 to 12, and Grade 12 to study at a university or TVET college. If you are approved for NSFAS funding, you must first meet the academic admission requirements of the university or TVET college before NSFAS will provide you with any funds.