NSFAS Application Process 2026-2027

NSFAS Application Process 2026-2027

NSFAS 2026-2027 Applications: Eligibility, Documents & Process Explained:

Do you wish to study or are already studying at a public university or TVET college and come from a family with an income of R350,000 or less? The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is here to help. NSFAS offers a government-funded bursary to South African students who come from families earning a combined income of R350,000 or less per year. The NSFAS application process for 2026-2027 is your chance to access funding that covers essential costs like tuition, accommodation, transport, and learning materials.

NSFAS was established under the Department of Higher Education and Training to make tertiary education more accessible for students who cannot afford to pay for their studies. If you are a South African citizen or a SASSA grant recipient, you may qualify for full funding, including living allowances, personal care allowances, and book allowances, depending on your institution and financial background.

Applications for the 2026 academic year will open on the official NSFAS website (www.nsfas.org.za) from the 21st of September 2025 to the 31st of January 2026. It is important to apply early and ensure you submit all required documents, such as your ID copy, proof of income, and academic records. The process is done entirely online, making it easier than ever to apply from home or anywhere with internet access.

Whether you are applying for the first time or returning for continued support, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the NSFAS application process for 2026-2027, including who qualifies, what the bursary covers, and how to apply successfully.

READ HERE: NSFAS Application Status Check 2025

Opening Date And Deadline For NSFAS Application 2026-2027

Below are the application dates for NSFAS 2026:

Nsfas Application Opening Date 2026: September 21, 2025
Nsfas Application Closing Date 2026: January 31, 2026

Required Documents When Applying For The NSFAS Application Process

These are the following documents you need to provide during the application process for NSFAS. Make sure you log in to your myNSFAS account to upload the following documents:

Students with health conditions (disabilities) must provide:

A complete and signed Disabilities Annexure A form

Students recognized as vulnerable children must be provided:

Applicants who have been recognized as vulnerable by the Department of Social Development must provide a Vulnerable Child Declaration Form by the social worker.

Other Required Documents To Provide

Retrenchment Letter
Death certificate/s
Divorce Decree
Proof of legal guardianship
Marriage certificate
Other documents may be requested for appeal purposes, retrenchment letter

Supporting Documents For the Application Process

A certified copy of their ID (not older than three months).
A completed and signed consent form.
If a SASSA recipient, only an ID copy and a consent form are required.
Dependent applicants must submit certified ID copies of parents, guardians, or spouse, and proof of income (payslip or appointment letter).
Self-sufficient applicants must submit proof of income (payslip or appointment letter) and three years of IRP5 documentation.
A valid working email and contact number.

NSFAS Application Process 2026-2027

The process will guide you in applying for the NSFAS bursary for the year 2026-2027:

Visit the NSFAS website at www.nsfas.org.za.
Click on the “myNSFAS” tab.
Register for a myNSFAS account using your email address and phone number.
Create a secure password and verify your account with the OTP sent to your email and phone.
Click on “Apply” and follow the prompts to fill in your details.
Upload all required supporting documents.
Submit your application and wait for confirmation.

ALSO READ: Is NSFAS Open For 2025 Students?

Contact Details Of NSFAS

NSFAS Virtual Contact Centre

Nsfas is available to assist through the following channels:

Email: info@nsfas.org.za
Facebook: National Student Financial Aid Scheme
Twitter: @myNSFAS
Instagram: @myNSFAS
WhatsApp: +27 63 093 5671
USSD:*120*67327#

For general and student enquiries:

For all other queries regarding students:
Tel No.: 08000 67327
Email: info@nsfas.org.za
Physical Address (Head Office):
The Halyard, 4 Christiaan Barnard St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8001

The NSFAS application process for 2026-2027 is a crucial step for students who need financial support to pursue higher education in South Africa. If you meet the eligibility criteria, don’t miss this opportunity to receive funding that covers your tuition, accommodation, transport, and study materials. Make sure you gather the correct documents, complete your online application on time, and stay updated with important dates from the NSFAS website. Visit The Official Website For More.