How to Apply for the NSFAS Bursary for 2026
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a South African government program that provides financial assistance to students from poor and working-class families who wish to study at public universities and TVET colleges. For the 2026 academic year, NSFAS applications officially opened on 15 September 2025 and will close on 15 November 2025. It’s important to apply before the closing date, as late applications are not accepted.
Applying for NSFAS can feel overwhelming at first, but with proper guidance and preparation, you can complete your application successfully. Below is a detailed explanation of the process, from checking your eligibility to submitting the right documents and tracking your application.
1. Understanding What NSFAS Covers
Before you start your application, it’s essential to know what the NSFAS bursary actually pays for. NSFAS doesn’t just cover tuition—it provides a full package of support designed to ensure that financially needy students can focus on their studies without worrying about money.
For University Students:
- Tuition fees: Paid directly to the university.
- Registration fees: Fully covered.
- Accommodation: Up to a certain limit, depending on the institution.
- Learning materials: An annual allowance (e.g., for textbooks or laptops).
- Living allowance: A monthly stipend for food and personal needs.
- Transport allowance: For students living near campus but not in residence.
For TVET College Students:
- Tuition and registration fees: Fully covered.
- Accommodation or transport allowance: Depending on the distance from campus.
- Personal care allowance: For daily essentials.
These benefits vary slightly based on the institution’s policies, but NSFAS aims to remove as many financial barriers as possible for students from low-income households.
2. Who Qualifies for the NSFAS Bursary
Not everyone qualifies for NSFAS funding, so you must meet the official eligibility criteria. The main conditions include:
- Citizenship: You must be a South African citizen or a permanent resident with a valid South African ID.
- Institution Type: You must be applying to or already studying at a public university or TVET college. Private institutions are not funded by NSFAS.
- Income Limits:
- Your combined household income must be R350,000 per year or less.
- If you have a disability, the limit is R600,000 per year.
- Academic Requirements:
- You must meet the admission requirements for your chosen course.
- You must maintain good academic progress if you are already studying.
- Previous Funding: You should not have already completed a qualification funded by NSFAS unless you are applying for postgraduate funding in a scarce skills area (like teaching or nursing).
3. Documents Required for Your Application
One of the most common reasons students’ NSFAS applications are rejected or delayed is missing or incorrect documentation. Having all your documents ready before you start applying will save you a lot of stress.
Here’s a list of documents you’ll need:
| Document | Who Needs It / Why |
|---|---|
| Certified ID copy or birth certificate | All applicants |
| Parent(s)/guardian(s) or spouse’s ID copies | If applicable |
| Proof of household income (payslips, SASSA grant letter, etc.) | Everyone except SASSA beneficiaries |
| Consent form (downloaded from NSFAS site) | To allow NSFAS to verify income |
| Proof of residence | Optional but helpful |
| Death certificate(s) | If one or both parents are deceased |
| Disability Annexure Form & medical report | For students with disabilities |
| Vulnerable Child Declaration Form | For applicants under 18 without parents |
| Proof of legal guardianship or adoption papers | If applicable |
All documents should be clear and certified, meaning they have been stamped and signed by an official authority such as a police station or commissioner of oaths.
4. How to Apply for NSFAS 2026 Online
You can apply for NSFAS in just a few simple steps through the myNSFAS portal. You’ll need access to a phone number and an email address that you use regularly, as NSFAS communicates updates through these channels.
Step-by-Step Application Process:
- Visit the NSFAS Website
- Go to www.nsfas.org.za.
- Click on the “myNSFAS” tab at the top of the homepage.
- Create a myNSFAS Account
- If you don’t already have one, click “Register.”
- Fill in your details, such as your ID number, full name, cellphone number, and email.
- Create a strong password and verify your contact details through the OTP (one-time PIN) sent to you.
- Log In to Your Account
- Use your ID number and password to sign in.
- Start Your Application
- Click “Apply” and fill in your personal and academic details.
- You’ll be asked about your household income, guardian details, and school information.
- Upload Required Documents
- Scan or take clear pictures of your supporting documents and upload them.
- Make sure each document is correctly labelled and readable.
- Review and Submit
- Double-check that all the information is accurate.
- Once submitted, you’ll receive a reference number confirming your application.
- Track Your Application
- You can log in anytime to check your application status under the “Application Status” tab.
5. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many students lose their chance at funding because of avoidable mistakes. Here are some common ones to watch out for:
- Submitting blurry or incomplete documents.
- Using someone else’s cellphone number or email address.
- Forgetting to upload the consent form.
- Applying after the deadline.
- Providing false income information.
- Not checking your myNSFAS account regularly for updates.
Always keep your login credentials safe and check your messages often so you don’t miss important notifications from NSFAS.
6. Tips to Strengthen Your Application
- Apply early: Don’t wait until the last week; technical issues or heavy site traffic can cause delays.
- Ensure your ID matches your details: Names must match your official documents exactly.
- Keep digital copies of everything: Save your uploaded documents and confirmation email.
- Ask for help if needed: Visit your nearest NYDA office, public library, or TVET college for free NSFAS application support.
- Use official sources only: Apply only through www.nsfas.org.za; avoid scam websites.
7. After You Apply
Once you submit your application, NSFAS will:
- Verify your details with government databases like Home Affairs, SARS, and SASSA.
- Assess your financial eligibility using the income information provided.
- Send updates via SMS or email about your application progress.
- If approved, NSFAS will inform your university or TVET college and disburse funds directly to your institution and NSFAS wallet.
8. Contact Details for NSFAS
If you experience issues or need assistance:
- Website: www.nsfas.org.za
- Email: info@nsfas.org.za
- Toll-free Number: 08000 NSFAS (08000 67327)
- Twitter / X: @myNSFAS
- Facebook: National Student Financial Aid Scheme
Conclusion
Applying for the NSFAS bursary for 2026 is your opportunity to secure full funding for your studies if you come from a low- or middle-income household. With applications open from 15 September to 15 November 2025, the earlier you apply, the better your chances of success.
Make sure you prepare all your required documents, use only official NSFAS channels, and keep checking your myNSFAS account for updates. Education is a long-term investment, and NSFAS exists to help you achieve your dreams without financial obstacles.
Would you like me to format this into a printable PDF guide that you can use when applying (including a checklist at the end)?
