NSFAS 2026 Application Portal Is Now Open

What Documents Do I Need To Apply For NSFAS Bursary 2026

NSFAS 2026 Application Portal Is Now Open

NSFAS 2026 Application Portal Is Now Open, www.nsfas.org.za Apply 2026

The NSFAS 2026 Application Portal is now open until January 31, 2026, allowing South African students to apply for financial assistance for tertiary education. Students can use the portal to apply, submit documents, and track their application status while it remains active.

NSFAS is dedicated to providing financial assistance, including grants, loans, and bursaries, to ensure that all students can access quality higher education, regardless of their circumstances. Students in need of financial aid are encouraged to apply promptly

Understanding the NSFAS Eligibility Criteria For 2026

To qualify for NSFAS funding, applicants must meet certain eligibility criteria. While the specifics may vary slightly from year to year, the general criteria include the following:

South African Citizenship: Applicants must be South African citizens or permanent residents.
Financial Need: Combined gross household income should not exceed R350 000 per annum
Academic Performance: Prospective students must have a solid academic record to be considered for funding.
Persons living with disabilities: Combined gross household income should not exceed R600 000 per annum
Age limit: There is no age limit for NSFAS funding applications.
SASSA recipients automatically qualify for financial eligibility
Applicant’s Contact Information: Must have email and cell phone number

What does the 2026 NSFAS cover?

NSFAS is a scholarship for deserving South African students to help cover higher education costs. Students awarded NSFAS 2026 funding are exempt from registration and tuition fees and may also be eligible for reimbursements for living expenses, learning materials, personal care, accommodation, and transportation.

Read Also: How to Register for NSFAS 2026

How to Complete NSFAS 2026 Application Form

Once you have accessed the application portal, you will need to complete the application form accurately and thoroughly by following the steps below:

Click on register
Type in your ID number as it appears on your ID document.
Enter your name and surname as they appear on your ID Document.
Enter your email address and cellphone number. Your username will be your email address.
set up and Create a password and confirm your password.
Upload a copy of your ID.
Click on register.
After clicking register, a One Time Pin (OTP) will be sent to the email address and cellphone number you provided.
Check your cell phone and email for the OTP.
Enter the OTP in the tab provided and click submit.
- You will then receive another SMS and email confirming that your myNSFAS account has been created.
- You may now continue with your application by Clicking on the ‘APPLY’ tab and completing the sections on the screen
Submit by uploading all required supporting documents as shown below:
- A copy of student ID / Birth certificate
- A Copy of the parent/s or guardian/spouse’s ID
- A two-sided Smart card
- Proof of income (where applicable)
- Disability Annexure A form
- 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

How to Track NSFAS Application Status

The steps below will walk you through the process of checking your NSFAS bursary status for 2026 and answering any queries you may have regarding the procedure.

Visit the NSFAS Student Portal website (www.nsfas.org.za/mynsfas).
Log in with your MyNSFAS username and password.
Your NSFAS status will appear on the homepage of the portal.
Once logged in, you can also view your application details, financial aid information, and messages.