Beginning on september 1st, 2025, the NSFAS 2026 online application process will commence. To receive financial aid from NSFAS promptly, all applicants must submit their applications before the deadline of January 31st, 2026. It is important to note that applications submitted after this deadline will not be considered for processing.

Before getting into the application process,  all applicants are to familiarize themselves with the eligibility requirements set by NSFAS. Generally, applicants must be South African citizens, enrolled or planning to enrol at a public university or TVET college and meet specific financial requirements.

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is important in providing financial support to South African students pursuing higher education. If you are preparing for the 2026/2027 academic year, below is the step-by-step guide on how to apply for NSFAS and secure the financial assistance you need to pursue your studies.

Are Nsfas Still Open For 2026/2027

While specific dates may vary from year to year, the NSFAS application process generally follows a consistent timeline:

Nsfas Application Date Open 2026/2027

• The application period for NSFAS funding for the 2026/2027 academic year opens in the last quarter of the year which is from the 1st of september 2025.

Nsfas Application Deadline For 2026/2027:

• The application window for Nsfas 2026 closes in January, basically on the 31st of January  2026, giving prospective students ample time to gather the necessary documentation and complete their application.

Read: When Nsfas Is Closing 2026/2027

Nsfas Application Review Date 2026/2027

• NSFAS reviews and processes applications from January to February. During this period, applicants may be asked to submit additional information or documents.

Funding approval Date and communication:

• Successful applicants are notified of their funding approval between February and April. Unsuccessful applicants are also informed and may be provided with reasons for the decline.

Appeals process Date :

• Students who believe their application was unfairly declined can submit an appeal to NSFAS within the specified time frame, usually within a month of receiving the decline notification.

Who Is Eligible When Nsfas Are Still Open For 2026/2027

To be eligible to apply for Nsfas in 2026, you must be:

• All South African citizens
• All SASSA grant recipients qualify for funding
• Applicants whose combined household income is not more than R350 000 per annum
• A person with disability: Combined household income must not be more than R600 000 per annum
• Students who started studying before 2018 and whose household income is not more than R122 000 per annum.

Requirements Needed When Nsfas Are Still Open For 2026/2027

Before starting the application process, ensure that you have the following documents:

• Certified copy of your South African ID or birth certificate.
• Certified copies of your parent(s) or guardian(s) ID.
• Proof of income for your parent(s) or guardian(s).
• Your latest academic records.
• Consent form signed by your parent(s) or guardian(s) for NSFAS to verify income.