Application Date For NSFAS 2026-2027
Application Date For NSFAS 2026-2027
Apply for NSFAS 2026-2027: Opening and Closing Dates Explained:
Students planning to apply for financial assistance through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) for the 2026–2027 academic year, knowing the official application dates is essential. Missing the deadline could mean missing out on government-funded financial support that covers tuition fees, accommodation, transport, and more. The NSFAS online application for 2026–2027 officially opens on 21 November 2025 and will close on 31 January 2026. This gives students just over two months to complete and submit their applications through the myNSFAS portal.
NSFAS is a government entity established under the Department of Higher Education and Training to support academically deserving but financially disadvantaged students. If your household income is R350,000 or less per year and you are planning to study or are already studying at a public university or TVET college in South Africa, you may qualify for full funding.
It is important to mark the NSFAS 2026–2027 application dates on your calendar and begin preparing your documents in advance. You will need certified copies of your ID, proof of income, consent forms, and academic records, among others. Submitting your application early also helps avoid technical issues and gives you time to fix any errors before the closing date.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the NSFAS 2026–2027 application period, what you need to apply, and tips to ensure your application is complete and submitted on time. Do not let the opportunity pass you by. Stay informed and apply early for your chance to access fully funded higher education.
Application Date For NSFAS 2026-2027
The applicant can apply for NSFAS by the following dates;
- Application opening date: 21st November 2025
- Application closing date: January 31, 2026
NOTE: The NSFAS secretariat does not entertain late applications
READ ALSO: How To Apply For The New R350 Grant
Who Is Qualified To Apply Online For NSFAS for 2026-2027
The following are those who qualify to apply for NSFAS for the academic year 2026-2027:
- 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 annum.
Documents Needed To Apply Online For NSFAS For 2026-2027
Nsfas applicants for the academic year 2026-2027 are to upload the following documents:
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Certified ID copies of parents, guardians, or spouse
- Proof of income (latest payslips, pension slips, or affidavit if unemployed)
- Disability Annexure A form (if applicable)
- Consent form signed by all household members whose income is declared
- Academic records or proof of registration (if currently enrolled)
What Does The NSFAS Bursary Cover For Students in 2026-2027
The NSFAS funds cover the following for both university and TVET College students:
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
How To Apply Online For NSFAS 2026-2027
To start a new application process, follow these steps to apply online;
- Visit the NSFAS Application portal at www.nsfas.org.za
- locate the top right menu of the NSFAS homepage, click on the “myNSFAS” tab
- Then, create a “myNSFAS Account” to continue the application
- After completing all blank pages, click on the “APPLY” tab
- Upload all the requested scanned copies of your supporting documents
- Click on “Submit” to forward your applications to NSFAS online for evaluation
How to Reset myNSFAS Login Details
Follow the steps below to reset your myNSFAS login details:
- Go to: www.nsfas.org.za
- Click on ‘myNSFAS’
- Click on ‘forgot password’
- Type in your ID number
- Choose what you require help with: password, username, or both
- Then click on ‘ submit’.
- The username and the link to change your password will be sent via SMS and email
- Open the link, and you will be redirected to the reset password page.
- Reset your password by following the prompts on your
NSFAS Contact Information
- Website: www.nsfas.org.za
Email: info@nsfas.org.za - South African students: 0860 067 327
- International students: +27 21 763 3232
- Physical Address: 10 Brodie Road, Wynberg, Cape Town, South Africa, 7700
- Postal Address: Private Bag X1, Plumstead, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa, 7801
READ HERE: Apply For NSFAS 2025-2026
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
The NSFAS 2026-2027 application period is a critical window of opportunity for South African students in need of financial support for higher education. With applications opening on 21 November 2025 and closing on 31 January 2026, it’s important to act fast, gather your documents, and submit your form through the official myNSFAS portal before the deadline. Missing these dates means missing out on tuition, accommodation, transport, and study-related support. Visit the Official Website For More