NSFAS Requirements For 2026

NSFAS Requirements For 2026

Who Qualifies? Full List of NSFAS Requirements for 2026:

Prospective applicants planning to study at a public university or TVET college in South Africa in 2026 or 2027 and need financial support, understanding the NSFAS requirements is a crucial first step. The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) helps thousands of students from low-income households access higher education by covering essential study-related costs like tuition, accommodation, transport, and more. However, before applying, you need to ensure that you meet the NSFAS eligibility criteria for the 2026-2027 academic year.

To qualify for NSFAS funding for 2026, you must be a South African citizen, and your combined household income should not exceed R350,000 per year. If you are a SASSA grant recipient, you automatically qualify for NSFAS support. For students living with disabilities, the income threshold is slightly higher, up to R600,000 per year.

Apart from financial eligibility, you must be enrolled or planning to enroll at a public university or TVET college in an approved program. Applications must be submitted online through the myNSFAS portal, and you will need to upload supporting documents such as your ID, proof of income, and academic records.

Meeting all NSFAS requirements for 2026-2027 ensures an easy application process and increases your chances of receiving the funding you need. Make sure to apply early, check deadlines, and stay informed about any updates from NSFAS or the Department of Higher Education and Training.

When Is NSFAS Opening For 2026-2027

• The NSFAS online application for 2026-2027 will open from the 21st of November 2025, and the applications will close on the 31st of January  2026

Who Qualifies For NSFAS Funds For 2026-2027

To be eligible for NSFAS funding, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be a South African citizen.
• Be a recipient of a SASSA grant (automatically qualifies).
• Have a combined household income of no more than R350,000 per year.
• For applicants living with a disability, the combined household income must not exceed R600,000 per year.
• Students who started their studies before 2018 may qualify if their household income is R122,000 per year or less.

READ Also: When Will NSFAS Open For 2025

NSFAS Requirements For 2026

To qualify for NSFAS funding, you must meet the following:

Basic Eligibility Criteria:

• Must be a South African citizen
• Must be applying for or currently studying at a public university or TVET college
• Must be registered (or intend to register) in an approved qualification

Financial Requirements:

Your combined household income must be:

• R350,000 or less per year (general applicants)
• R600,000 or less per year (for applicants living with a disability)
• R122,000 or less per year (for students who began studying before 2018)
• If you are a SASSA grant recipient, you automatically qualify for NSFAS (no need to submit proof of income)

Academic Requirements:

• Must meet the admission and academic progression requirements of the institution
• Must pass a minimum number of modules to continue receiving NSFAS each year (as per NSFAS progression rules)

What Are The Documents Needed when Applying For NSFAS For 2026-2027

All NSFAS applicants are to upload the following documents during the application submission:

• 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)

How to Apply for NSFAS Funding 2026-2027

Applying for NSFAS funding is a simple, online process. Follow these steps:

Go to the official website of NSFAS and click on myNSFAS

• Create a profile:

Open myNSFAS account via this link: https://my.nsfas.org.za/ or download the NSFAS App on Google Play or App Store. Your ID number will be your username.

• Apply now:

“Apply’ is the tab to update your personal information and upload your application supporting documents, as indicated.

• Complete:

Submit your application

ALSO READ: Which Bank Does NSFAS Use in 2025

NSFAS Contact Details

• website:www.nsfas.org.za
• E-mail: info@nsfas.org.za
• South African Students:08060 067 327
• International Students: +27 21 763 3232
• Postal Address: Private Bag X1, Plumstead, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa,7801

Meeting the NSFAS requirements for 2026 is essential if you want to receive financial aid for your university or TVET college studies. The scheme is designed to help students from low-income households, so eligibility is based on financial need, academic performance, and South African citizenship. You will also need to provide supporting documents such as your ID, proof of income, and academic records. Visit the site here for additional information.