NSFAS outlines next steps for 2026 funding after matric results

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has released official guidance for first-time NSFAS-eligible students following the release of the 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) results, outlining key dates, registration rules and funding outcomes for the 2026 academic year.

In a media statement issued on Wednesday, 14 January 2026, NSFAS congratulated the Class of 2025 and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting qualifying students at public universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges.

Check your NSFAS application status

All applicants are urged to log in to the NSFAS student portal at www.nsfas.org.za to confirm their application status. Students whose status reflects “Eligible for a bursary” have been confirmed for NSFAS funding for 2026 and may proceed with registration at institutions where they have been accepted.

NSFAS cautioned that application statuses may still change as the scheme continues processing outstanding documents and appeals.

University and TVET registration

Universities are expected to begin releasing admission offers between 13 and 16 January 2026. Students accepted at universities and confirmed as NSFAS-funded may proceed with registration in line with institutional procedures.

NSFAS reiterated that NSFAS-funded students do not pay registration fees, either at universities or TVET colleges. However, students must still comply with their institution’s registration requirements and deadlines.

For students accepted at TVET colleges and confirmed as NSFAS funding-eligible, registration may proceed directly at the chosen college. NSFAS funding will then be finalized in line with approved bursary guidelines.

Not accepted at a university? Consider TVET colleges

Students who were not accepted at a university but qualify for NSFAS funding are encouraged to consider TVET colleges, which offer a wide range of accredited courses. NSFAS advised students to contact their nearest TVET college to enquire about available spaces, as registration and enrolment processes are already under way.

Once placement is confirmed, the TVET college and NSFAS will jointly process registration and funding.

Information on TVET colleges is available on the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) website. Students who need assistance navigating post-school education options can also use the Central Application Service (CAS), including WhatsApp support on 081 308 4196.

What NSFAS funding covers

NSFAS funding covers approved study-related costs, which may include:

• Tuition fees
• Accredited accommodation or transport
• Learning materials (for university students)
• Living allowances

Final funding details are confirmed once institutional registration has been completed and uploaded to NSFAS. Students must apply for allowances through their institution, which will determine eligibility for accommodation or transport based on distance from campus and accommodation criteria.

Loan outcomes and important reminders

NSFAS loan outcomes are expected to be released by the end of the week of 16 January 2026. Students are advised to monitor official communication channels closely.

NSFAS also warned students to remain vigilant against scams and misinformation, stressing that it will never request passwords or banking details. TVET students must capture their own banking details directly on the NSFAS portal and ensure contact information remains up to date.

For enquiries, students can contact NSFAS via the toll-free line 08000 NSFAS (08000 67327), email [email protected], or follow official NSFAS social media accounts.