When to Apply for NSFAS 2026?

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) provides financial support to eligible South African students pursuing higher education at public universities and TVET colleges. If you plan to apply for NSFAS funding for the 2026 academic year, it's important to know the key dates, eligibility criteria, required documents, and application process.

NSFAS 2026 Application Period

The NSFAS application period for the 2026 academic year will open on 15 September 2025, and close on 31 January 2026. Applications submitted outside this period will not be considered. Prospective students should start preparing their applications early to avoid last-minute issues.

Who Qualifies for NSFAS Funding in 2026?

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

• Be a South African citizen or permanent resident.
• Have a combined household income of R350,000 or less per year to qualify for a bursary.
• If your household income is between R350,000 and R600,000 per year, you may be eligible for a NSFAS loan instead.
• Be enrolled or planning to enrol in a public university or TVET college.
• No age limit applies, so anyone meeting the financial and academic requirements can apply.
• Students with disabilities can qualify with a household income of up to R600,000 per year.
• NSFAS covers students pursuing an undergraduate higher certificate, diploma, or first-degree qualification.
• Applicants must have a valid email address and phone number for communication purposes.

Other South African Bursaries Open for the 2026 Academic Year

NSFAS 2026 applications open (Closing Date: 30 November 2025)

Amazon Recruitment Bursary 2026  (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)

FASSET Employed Learner Bursary (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)

TETA Bursary 2026 (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)

Tronox Bursary (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)

Accunture Scholarship (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)

AMSOL Bursary: (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)

Bowmans Bursary: (Closing Date: 30 September 2025)

Harmony Gold Mining (Closing Date: 10 October 2025)

TTI Bursary (Applications Accepted throughout the year)

Career Wise Bursaries (Applications Accepted throughout the year)

BBD Bursary (Applications Accepted throughout the year)

MINDS Scholarship (Applications Accepted throughout the year)

Required Documents for NSFAS 2026 Application

To apply for NSFAS funding, students need to provide the following documents:

• 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 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.

How to Apply for NSFAS 2026 Funding

Follow these steps to apply:

• 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 personal details.
• Upload all required supporting documents.
• Submit your application and wait for confirmation.

NSFAS 2026 Application Deadlines for TVET College Students

TVET college students have specific NSFAS application windows for different study periods:

• First Trimester:  1 September 2025 – 31 January 2026
• Second Trimester: 5 May 2026 – 23 May 2026
• Second Semester: 17 July 2026 – 1 August 2026
• Third Trimester: 4 September 2026 – 22 September 2026

What Does NSFAS Cover?

NSFAS provides funding for:

• Registration fees and tuition costs.
• Accommodation, living, and transport allowances.
• Study materials and personal care allowances.

How to Check Your NSFAS Application Status

Once you have submitted your application, you can check your status by:

• Logging into your myNSFAS account.
• Entering your username and password.
• Clicking on "Track funding progress" to monitor your application.

How NSFAS Pays Students

Approved students receive their funds through:

• Direct bank deposits.
• Monthly allowances for food, accommodation, transport, and living expenses.

Tips for a Successful NSFAS Application

To improve your chances of success:

• Ensure all information provided is accurate and up to date.
• Upload clear and legible copies of required documents.
• Regularly check your email and phone messages for updates.
• Apply early to avoid system overload and last-minute errors.

Stay Updated on NSFAS 2026 Announcements

It’s important to keep an eye on the official NSFAS website and social media channels for any updates or changes to the application process.

Applying for NSFAS funding on time is essential for securing financial assistance for your studies. Mark your calendar and prepare your documents in advance to ensure a smooth application process for the 2026 academic year.