Yes, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) applications for the 2026/2027 academic year are officially open. Students who wish to study at public universities or TVET colleges in South Africa can now apply for financial aid to help cover their tuition fees, accommodation, transport, and learning materials. The NSFAS application window opens from September 2025 and will close on 15 November 2025, giving students two months to submit their applications before the deadline.

NSFAS is a government-funded financial support program aimed at assisting students from low-income households. To qualify, applicants must be South African citizens with a combined household income of R350,000 or less per year. Students with disabilities qualify if their household income does not exceed R600,000 per year. This funding opportunity is designed to make higher education accessible and affordable for thousands of deserving students across the country.

Applications are submitted online through the official NSFAS portal, which allows students to register, upload supporting documents, and track their application status. It is important to apply early to avoid last-minute issues or system delays. Make sure you have all the required documents ready, including your South African ID, proof of income, consent forms, and academic results.

With NSFAS applications for 2026/2027 now open, this is the perfect time to take charge of your future. Do not miss the chance to apply for funding that could make your education dreams a reality. Apply before 15 November 2025 to secure your opportunity for financial support.

Are Nsfas 2026/2027 Applications Open

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

Nsfas Applications 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 September 2025.

Nsfas Applications Deadline For 2026/2027

• The application window for NSFAS 2026 closes on the 15th of November 2025. NSFAS gives prospective students ample time to gather the necessary documentation and complete their application.

Read: Nsfas January Application Status 2026/2027

Nsfas Application Review 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 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 Is Open For 2026/2027 Applications

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 Is Open For 2026/2027 Applications

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.