When Will NSFAS Close For 2026-2027

When Will NSFAS Close For 2026-2027

How Long Do You Have to Apply for NSFAS 2026-2027?

Those planning to apply for financial assistance through NSFAS for the 2026-2027 academic year, it is very important to know when the application period will close. Missing the deadline means you could miss out on vital funding that helps cover your tuition, accommodation, learning materials, and other student needs. For the 2026-2027 cycle, NSFAS is expected to close applications on January 31, 2026. This gives prospective students just over two months to gather their documents and complete the online application process.

Whether you are a matriculant entering university for the first time, or a returning student at a public university or TVET college, being aware of this closing date is essential. The application window opens around late November, tentatively on November 21, 2025, so acting promptly ensures your application is processed on time. Waiting until the last minute often leads to technical issues, missing documents, or submission errors.

Applying before the NSFAS closing date for 2026-2027 can make all the difference in securing your funding. This article will break down not just the exact closing date, but also what documents you will need, tips for a successful application, and what happens after you submit your form. If you want to avoid financial stress during your studies, keep reading to ensure you do not miss this important deadline.

When Will NSFAS Close For 2026-2027

• The NSFAS Online Application 2025-2026 Academic Intake will be closing on 31 January 2026.

NOTE: Make sure to send the application within the time frame from November 2024 to January 2025. The NSFAS secretariat doesn’t entertain late applications.

NSFAS Appeal Closing Date 2026

• Appeals for new and continuing students will close on February 20th, 2026.

READ ALSO: NSFAS Appeal For 2025-2026

Documents Needed To Apply For NSFAS For 2026-2027

Attaching these documents gives the applicant an extra advantage over others.

• 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)

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

 How To Apply For NSFAS For 2026-2027

To submit the NSFAS Application online, follow the steps outlined below:

• Create a profile:

Create a 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:

Provide your personal information in the blank spaces and update your supporting document as indicated.

• Complete:

Send your application

How Do I Qualify For NSFAS Appeal 2026

You can file an appeal to NSFAS if your application is rejected. This can be done through the following steps;

• The appeal decisions are subject to budget availability.
• Appeals will only be considered for students who have applied to NSFAS for Financial Aid.

How To Receive NSFAS Fund Through Wallet 2026

Here are the things you will need to receive NSFAS allowances via the NSFAS Wallet.

• Get yourself a cell phone and a valid SIM card
• Make sure to sign your NSFAS Bursary Agreement if you are a new student to NSFAS
• You will not need to withdraw cash to pay your landlord or any registered merchant.

READ HERE: Which Bank Does NSFAS USE in 2025

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

Knowing when NSFAS will close for the 2026-2027 academic year is essential for every student hoping to secure funding for their studies. With the official closing date expected to be January 31, 2026, applicants have a limited window to submit their information and supporting documents through the myNSFAS online portal.  For details, click HERE