NSFAS-Funded Universities in South Africa – Apply in 2026

Planning to study in 2026? Here's everything you need to know about NSFAS and which universities it funds.

If you're a student looking to study at a public university in South Africa in 2026, you may be eligible for full financial support through NSFAS – the National Student Financial Aid Scheme. This government program helps thousands of students each year by covering tuition, accommodation, learning materials, and more.

In this blog, we’ll break down how NSFAS works, who qualifies, and which universities are NSFAS-funded for the 2026 academic year.

NSFAS-Funded Universities in South Africa – Apply in 2026

What Is NSFAS?

NSFAS is a bursary scheme funded by the Department of Higher Education and Training in South Africa. It supports eligible students who want to study at public universities and TVET colleges.

Unlike student loans, NSFAS does not require repayment if you complete your studies. It’s designed to remove financial barriers for underprivileged students and enable equal access to higher education.

Who Qualifies for NSFAS in 2026?

To qualify for NSFAS in 2026, you must meet the following criteria:

• Be a South African citizen
• Planning to study at a public university or TVET college in 2026
• Your household income is less than R350,000 per year (or R600,000 for students with disabilities)
• Be a first-time applicant or a returning student who meets the academic criteria
• You must not be funded by another bursary provider

If you are a SASSA beneficiary, you automatically qualify — but you still need to apply.

NSFAS 2026 Application Dates

• Applications Open: 1 September 2025
• Applications Close: 31 January 2026
• TVET College Deadline: Extended until 14 February 2026
• Reopening Period: Mid-January for late university applicants

Apply as early as possible. Late applications are often not accepted.

What Costs Does NSFAS Cover?

NSFAS provides comprehensive financial support, including:

• Registration and tuition fees
• Learning materials (e.g., textbooks)
• Accommodation or transport allowance
• Living allowance (meals, personal care)
• Disability support (if applicable)

This support applies throughout your studies, as long as you pass your modules and meet academic requirements.

Universities Still Open for 2026 Applications!!!

• Vaal University of Technology (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• Walter Sisulu University (Closing Date: 31 October 2025)
• University of Mpumalanga (Closing Date: 30 November 2025)
• University of Cape Town (Closing Date: 31 July 2025)
• Stellenbosch University (Closing Date: 31 July 2025)
• North West University (Closing Date: 31 August 2025)
• Tshwane University of Technology (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• University of Free State (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• University of Limpopo (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• University of Venda (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• Cape Peninsula University of Technology (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• Central University of Technology (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• University of Johannesburg (Closing Date: 31 October 2025)
• Nelson Mandela University (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• University of Witwatersrand (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• University of Western Cape (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• Sefako Makgatho University (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• University of KwaZulu-Natal (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• Durban University of Technology (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• University of Zululand (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• Mangosuthu University of Technology (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)
• Sol Plaatje University (Closing Date: 30 November 2025)

List of NSFAS-Funded Universities in South Africa

All 26 public universities in South Africa are funded by NSFAS. Here are some of the major institutions:

Traditional Universities:

• University of Cape Town (UCT)
• University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
• Stellenbosch University
• Rhodes University
• University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
• University of the Free State (UFS)
• University of Limpopo (UL)
• University of Pretoria (UP)
• University of Fort Hare (UFH)

Comprehensive Universities:

• University of South Africa (UNISA)
• University of Johannesburg (UJ)
• University of Venda (UNIVEN)
• Walter Sisulu University (WSU)
• University of Zululand (UNIZULU)
• North-West University (NWU)
• Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
• University of Mpumalanga (UMP)
• Sol Plaatje University (SPU)

Universities of Technology:

• Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
• Durban University of Technology (DUT)
• Vaal University of Technology (VUT)
• Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
• Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)
• Central University of Technology (CUT)

These universities all accept NSFAS funding for eligible undergraduate students.

Note: NSFAS does not fund private institutions unless they have a specific partnership arrangement.

How to Apply for NSFAS in 2026

Follow these steps to apply once applications open on 1 September 2025:

1. Visit the official NSFAS website: www.nsfas.org.za
2. Create a myNSFAS account or log in
3. Complete the online application form
4. Upload all required supporting documents
5. Submit your application and save your reference number

Documents You’ll Need:

• Certified copy of your ID or birth certificate
• ID copies of your parent(s) or guardian
• Proof of income or affidavit (if not receiving a SASSA grant)
• Disability form (if applicable)
• Academic records (Grade 11 or Matric results if available)

Important Tips for Applicants

• Apply early: Don’t wait until January — delays in submission can lead to missed opportunities.
• Check your email and phone: NSFAS will contact you with updates or if documents are missing.
• Track your application using your myNSFAS account.
• If your status is stuck or unclear, contact your university’s financial aid office for help.

Conclusion

NSFAS makes it possible for thousands of students to access higher education each year — and you could be one of them. With funding available for all public universities in South Africa, there’s no reason to delay your dreams.

Make sure to apply on time, prepare your documents, and choose an NSFAS-funded university that matches your career goals.

If you need help choosing a university or preparing your NSFAS application, let us know — we’re here to help.