Is NSFAS Open For Student In 2026

Is NSFAS Open For Student In 2026

NSFAS 2026: Application Dates and Opening Information:

Are you currently studying or planning to study at a public university or TVET college, and your family earns R350,000 or less per year? If so, you could qualify for a government bursary through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). NSFAS is a government-funded program under the Department of Higher Education and Training. It was created to help financially disadvantaged students access higher education at public universities and TVET colleges across South Africa.

As the 2026 study year approaches, many students are eager to know when NSFAS will officially open for new applications. The online application window for the academic year 2026 for NSFAS will open on the 21st of November 2025, and the application window will close on the 31st of January 2026. Applicants are to note that late applications will not be accepted; therefore, early submission is required.

Whether you are a new applicant or a returning student, it is important to keep track of the NSFAS opening and closing dates so you do not miss out. The application process is done online through the myNSFAS portal, and it is completely free. To qualify, your household income must be R350,000 or less per year, or R600,000 if you are living with a disability. If you receive a SASSA grant, you automatically qualify.

If you are planning to study at a public university or TVET college in South Africa in 2026, you might be wondering, “Is NSFAS open for students in 2026?” The good news is that NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme) is expected to open its application window for the 2026 academic year, just like in previous years. NSFAS is a government-funded bursary program that helps students from low-income families cover the cost of higher education. It covers tuition, accommodation, meals, transport, learning materials, and more, making it possible for thousands of students to pursue their dreams.

READ ALSO: Documents Needed To Apply For NSFAS 2025-2026

Is NSFAS Open For Student In 2026

Yes, the online application for NSFAS will officially open and close on the following dates:

• Nsfas Application opening date 2026: 2oth September 2025
• Nsfas Application closing date: 15th December 2025
• Nsfas Extended Application Deadline: 31st January 2026

Who Qualifies for NSFAS Funding After Applications Are Open

The below are those who qualify for NSFAS bursaries for the 2026/2027 academic year:

• All South African citizens
• All SASSA grant recipients qualify for funding
• Applicants whose combined household income is not more than R350,000 per annum
• Person with disability: Combined household income must not be more than R600,000 per annum
• Students who started studying before 2018, whose household income is not more than R122,000 per

What Does The NSFAS Bursary Cover for Students  In 2026-2027

Students on the NSFAS Scheme enjoy the following allowance;

UNIVERSITY STUDENTS:

• Accommodation: As per the actual costs charged by the university (costs for private accommodation must not exceed costs for university residence)
• Transport (up to 40 km from the institution) R7,500 per annum
• Living allowance R15, 000 per annum
• Book allowances R5200 per annum
• Incidental/personal care allowance of R2900 per annum for students in catered residences

TVET College STUDENTS:

• Accommodation in an urban area is R24,000 per annum
• Accommodation in a peri-urban area is R18,900 per annum
• Accommodation in a rural area is R15,750 per annum
• Transport (up to 40 km from the institution) R7,350 per annum
• Transport R7000 per annum
• Incidental/personal care allowance R2900 per annum

Requirements And Documents Needed For NSFAS Application For 2026-2027

Nsfas applicants will need the following documents to authenticate their applications for Nsfas  bursaries:

• Certified copy of your South African ID document:
• Proof of income for your parents, legal guardian, or spouse (if applicable)
• Certified copy of your parents’ or guardians’ South African ID documents
• Consent Form signed by your parent(s), guardian, or spouse
• Completed NSFAS Application Form
• Proof of disability (if applicable)
• Completed and signed Disability Annexure A Form (if applicable)
• Proof of orphan status (if applicable)

READ HERE: Which Bank Does NSFAS USE in 2025

How To Apply For Online NSFAS 2026-2027

Follow the step-by-step guide below to apply online for NSFAS 2026-2027.

• Log onto www.nsfas.org.za
• Go the myNSFAS
• Click on ‘register’
• Complete the required fields (ID number, cellphone number, and email address)
• Upload the required supporting documents
• Click On Submit

NSFAS Contact

All other queries regarding students:

• Tel No.: 08000 67327
• Email:info@nsfas.org.za
• Physical Address
• The Halyard, 4 Christiaan Barnard St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8001

If you are aiming to study in 2026 and need financial assistance, NSFAS remains one of the best options available in South Africa. While the official application dates for 2026 may not yet be confirmed, they typically open in November and close at the end of January. So yes, NSFAS will be open for students in 2026. Make sure you prepare your documents early, stay updated through the NSFAS website, and apply as soon as the window opens to secure your chance for funding. For details, click HERE