How to Apply for NSFAS
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a South African government initiative providing financial support to eligible students at public universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges. It aims to make higher education accessible for those from low- and middle-income households by covering costs like tuition, accommodation, and allowances.
Table of Contents
What NSFAS Offers: Bursaries and Loans
NSFAS provides two main forms of funding:
- Bursaries: Non-repayable grants for students from households with an annual income up to R350,000 (or R600,000 for those with disabilities). These cover tuition, registration fees, allowances for learning materials, living expenses, transport, and accommodation. Bursaries are prioritized for undergraduate and TVET programs.
- Loans: Repayable funding for “missing middle” students from households earning between R350,001 and R600,000 annually. Loans can cover similar expenses and may partially convert to bursaries based on academic performance (e.g., 50% conversion if averaging above 70%). Loans are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate studies, with a focus on STEM fields.
Funding is limited to approved qualifications on the National Qualifications Framework (NQF) and does not extend to private institutions or repeat qualifications at the same level without exceptions.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, you must:
- Be a South African citizen or permanent resident.
- Be enrolled or intending to enroll at a public university or TVET college.
- Meet financial thresholds: Up to R350,000 household income for bursaries (automatic for SASSA grant recipients, excluding child support); R350,001–R600,000 for loans.
- Satisfy academic requirements: Institution admission criteria for first-years; progression rules (e.g., passing a minimum number of modules) for continuing students.
- Adhere to the N+ rule: Funding duration is the standard course length (N) plus additional years (typically +1 or +2, with extensions for disabilities or extenuating circumstances).
Students with disabilities must submit medical reports, and NSFAS verifies all details via third-party databases.
How to Apply Online (Step-by-Step)
Applications are fully online through the myNSFAS portal. Here’s how:
- Visit www.nsfas.org.za and create a myNSFAS account using your South African ID number, a valid email, and cellphone number. Your details will be verified against the Department of Home Affairs database.
- Log in and complete the application form with personal, academic, and financial information.
- Upload required supporting documents (see below).
- Review and submit. You’ll receive a reference number for tracking.
- Track your status on the portal; updates are sent via SMS/email if more info is needed.
Apply early to avoid delays. If rejected, appeal via the portal with evidence.
Required Supporting Documents
Documents vary by circumstance but typically include certified copies (no older than three months):
- South African ID or birth certificate (for applicant, parents/guardians, spouse).
- Proof of income (payslips, affidavits for unemployed, SASSA letters).
- NSFAS Consent Form (mandatory for data verification).
- Disability Annexure Form and medical report (if applicable).
- Declaration Forms for orphans, vulnerable children, or non-SASSA applicants.
- Proof of guardianship or vulnerability (court orders, death certificates).
SASSA recipients need fewer documents. Upload in PDF format during application.
Allowances and Additional Benefits
NSFAS provides allowances for funded students:
- Living Allowance: Typically R15,000–R17,160 annually (about R1,500–R1,716 per month over 10 months).
- Book/Learning Materials Allowance: R5,200–R5,678 annually.
- Accommodation Allowance: Up to R42,000–R52,000 annually (depending on location; metro vs. non-metro), or up to R54,045 for TVET catered residences.
- Transport Allowance: For non-resident students, up to R7,500 annually.
- Laptop: Through the Digital Learning Device (DLD) program for approved students—collect the form from your institution’s Financial Aid Office and order online.
- Accommodation: Apply via the NSFAS portal for accredited options; allowances are disbursed directly.
Allowances are paid monthly via bank accounts or approved methods. Amounts are subject to annual review; 2026 specifics may align with 2025 figures until updated.
Colleges and TVET Institutions
NSFAS funds all 26 public universities and 50 TVET colleges in South Africa. Many are open for 2026 applications, including:
- Universities: University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), University of South Africa (Unisa), Central University of Technology (CUT), Tshwane University of Technology (TUT).
- TVET Colleges: Tshwane South TVET, Ehlanzeni TVET, Tshwane North TVET, Central Johannesburg TVET, and others. Applications often open in September/October and close by November/December.
For teaching courses at TVET colleges (e.g., Educare, Early Childhood Development): False Bay TVET, Ekurhuleni West TVET, Tshwane South TVET, and others like Boland, Buffalo City, and Capricorn TVET offer related programs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When can I apply for NSFAS for 2026?
Applications opened in September 2025 and are currently open as of October 2025.
How to apply for NSFAS for 2026? / How do I apply for NSFAS 2026 online application?
Follow the step-by-step online process via the myNSFAS portal as outlined above. Ensure you have all documents ready.
What is the NSFAS application deadline?
The deadline is November 15, 2025.
Which colleges offer NSFAS?
All public universities and TVET colleges in South Africa qualify for NSFAS funding.
How much is the 2026 NSFAS allowance? / How much does NSFAS pay per student per month?
Allowances for 2026 are not yet finalized but are expected to align with 2025: Living allowance around R1,500–R1,716 monthly (R15,000–R17,160 annually), plus books and accommodation as detailed above.
Which colleges are open for 2026?
Many, including UKZN, Unisa, CUT, TUT, Tshwane South TVET, Ehlanzeni TVET, and Central Johannesburg TVET. Check individual websites for deadlines.
How to apply for NSFAS laptop 2025?
If approved for funding, download the DLD form from your institution’s Financial Aid Office, complete it, and order via the online portal.
Is NSFAS a loan or bursary?
Both: Bursaries for low-income students (non-repayable); loans for missing middle (repayable, with potential conversion).
Can NSFAS fund you for 6 years?
Depends on your qualification. Under the N+2 rule, a 4-year degree can be funded for up to 6 years if you meet progression requirements.
How to apply for NSFAS accommodation allowance 2025 status?
Check your funding status on the myNSFAS portal. If approved, accommodation allowances are disbursed automatically; apply for accredited options via the portal.
Will NSFAS open for second semester in 2025?
Yes, for TVET colleges applications for Semester 2 were open in July 2025 for 2025 enrollment.
Which TVET colleges offer teaching?
Examples include False Bay TVET (ECD and Educare), Ekurhuleni West TVET, Tshwane South TVET, Boland TVET, and Buffalo City TVET.
Can I apply for NSFAS late?
No, late applications are not accepted after the deadline. Apply before November 15, 2025, for 2026.
Additional Tips and Contact Information
Verify all info on the official NSFAS site, as policies can change. For help: Toll-free helpline 08000 67327; email [email protected]; or visit NSFAS offices. NSFAS empowers thousands annually—apply thoughtfully for your educational future.