Categories: University Admissions 2023

www.nsfas.org.za 2026 online application

www.nsfas.org.za 2026 online application, www.nsfas.org.za 2026 online application

The Free Application for the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is officially live.
The South African Department of Higher Education and Training opened applications for the 2026–27 NSFAS on Monday, 15 September 2025, for students who need funding for their undergraduate studies.

NSFAS is a crucial financial assistance program that helps students pursuing higher education cover the costs of tuition, registration, accommodation, meals, transportation, and monthly stipends. Thousands of students across South Africa apply for this funding every year.

Below, we break down everything you need to know: When, Who, Why, How, and Where to apply.

When to Apply

Applications for the 2026 academic year opened on September 15, 2025, and will remain open until November 15, 2025. Apply as early as possible to avoid last-minute issues.

Who Can Apply

South African citizens or permanent residents.
Students who plan to register or are already registered at a public university or TVET college.
Applicants whose combined household income is R350,000 or less per year (R600,000 for students with disabilities).

Where to Apply

You can submit your NSFAS application through any of these official channels:

Online Portal (preferred): www.nsfas.org.za
NSFAS Mobile App: Available on both iOS and Android for convenient application submission and status tracking.
NSFAS WhatsApp Chatbot: Add +27 78 519 8006 and follow the prompts.
NSFAS USSD Service: Dial *120*67327# from any South African cellphone.
Walk-In Centres and Partnered Sites: Many public universities, TVET colleges, and community outreach centres have NSFAS help desks where staff can guide you through the process.

Types of Applications

NSFAS accepts two application methods:

Electronic (Online) Application – recommended, as it is faster and easier to track.
Manual (Paper) Application – processed through designated centres and takes longer.

⚠️ You may apply using only one method. Do not submit both electronic and manual applications for the same cycle.

Alternative Application Points

If you don’t have a digital device or internet access, you can still apply by visiting:

Your nearest TVET College Bursary Office
The NSFAS Head Office
National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) Centre
Thusong Service Centre

These centres follow the same application steps and can assist with uploading required documents.

How to Apply

You will need a smart device, a valid phone number, an email address, and a South African ID to apply online.
You may use a friend’s device to complete the application, but you must provide your own phone number to receive important notifications and updates.

To begin the application process, you must first create a myNSFAS account.
Once your account is created, you can proceed with the online application.

Follow these steps to create your account:

PHASE I: How to Register for a myNSFAS Account

Follow these steps to create your myNSFAS account before applying for funding:

Go to the myNSFAS Tab

- Visit www.nsfas.org.za.
- Click the myNSFAS tab located at the top right corner of the homepage.

Start Registration
- Select the Register button to begin.
- Prepare all required supporting documents in advance to speed up the process.
Accept the Terms
- Tick the acceptance box to allow verification and validation of your details.
Enter Your Personal Details
- Type your South African ID number exactly as it appears on your ID card.
- Enter your surname exactly as shown on your ID.
- Provide a valid cellphone number and email address.
Create a Password
- Choose a strong password and re-enter it to confirm.
Upload Your ID
- Attach a clear, scanned copy of your identity document.
Submit Registration
- Click the REGISTER button to complete this stage.
Verify with OTP
- An SMS or email containing a four-digit One-Time Pin (OTP) will be sent to you.
- If you don’t see it in your inbox, check your spam or junk folder.
- Copy the OTP and paste it into the required field on the website.
Complete the Forms
- Fill in the remaining details as prompted to finalize your registration.
Confirmation
- You will receive a final SMS or email confirming that your myNSFAS account has been successfully created.

PHASE II

How to Submit Your NSFAS Application

Once you’ve successfully created your myNSFAS account, follow these steps to apply for funding:

Go to the “Apply” Tab
- Log in to your myNSFAS account at www.nsfas.org.za.
- Click the Apply tab to begin your application.
Complete the Online Form
- Answer all the questions displayed on your screen.
- Make sure every field is filled in accurately and completely.
Update Personal Information
- Double-check and update all personal details to ensure they are correct and up to date.
Upload Supporting Documents
- Attach every required document (ID, proof of income, etc.) in the specified format.
- Ensure documents are clear and legible.
Submit Your Application
- Review your entire application carefully.
- Click the Submit button to send it for review by NSFAS.

✅ Tip: After submission, keep your confirmation reference number safe. You can use it to track your application status online.

Required Documents for the NSFAS 2026 Application

To be considered eligible for the NSFAS 2026 application, you must provide the following documents:

A certified copy of your South African ID or birth certificate
Certified copies of your parents’, guardians’, or spouse’s ID documents
Proof of income, such as the latest payslip or a full year’s IRP5 (if applicable)
Your parents’, guardians’, or spouse’s proof of income (if applicable)
No proof of income is required if you are a SASSA grant recipient
Disability Annexure A Form, completed and signed, for all applicants with a disability
Vulnerable Child Declaration and Consent Form, completed and signed, for applicants identified by the Department of Social Development as vulnerable children