Nsfas For Postgraduate 2026/2027

Nsfas For Postgraduate Courses 2026/2027

A Comprehensive Guide to NSFAS for Postgraduate Students in South Africa:

The NSFAS for Postgraduate Courses 2026/2027 remains a common topic for many students who wish to further their studies after completing an undergraduate qualification. The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) plays a major role in funding undergraduate students in South Africa, but when it comes to postgraduate qualifications, the policy has changed. Since the 2021 academic year, NSFAS no longer provides funding for postgraduate studies. This means that students pursuing postgraduate certificates, postgraduate diplomas, honours degrees, master’s degrees, or PhD programmes are not eligible for NSFAS funding.

However, students who were already funded by NSFAS in 2020 for approved postgraduate qualifications were allowed to continue receiving financial assistance in 2021 to complete their courses. This was a transitional arrangement and does not apply to new postgraduate applicants in 2026/2027. For students looking to study further at a postgraduate level, the National Research Foundation (NRF) now manages funding for postgraduate qualifications.

The NRF offers various bursaries and research grants to support master’s and doctoral students. Applicants are encouraged to visit the official NRF website at www.nrf.ac.za for detailed information on application dates, requirements, and available funding opportunities for 2026/2027. While NSFAS focuses on undergraduate financial aid, the NRF ensures that postgraduate students still have access to funding opportunities that promote advanced education and research in South Africa. Prospective students are advised to plan and apply early through the NRF to secure support for their postgraduate studies in 2026/2027.

Application Deadline For NSFAS 2026/2027

Applications for NSFAS are now open for the 2026/2027 academic year for postgraduate students:

• An eligible student is to begin their NSFAS online application for the academic year 2026/2027 from September 2025 through to the 15th of November 2025.

Applicants are to provide the required documentation to support their applications and submit their applications as early as possible to meet the application deadline.

Read:  Can Nsfas Fund My Second Degree For 2025/2026

Who Is Eligible For NSFAS For 2026/2027

To qualify for NSFAS funding as a postgraduate student, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be a South African citizen
• Intend to study at a public university in South Africa
• Come from a household with a combined annual income of R350,000 or less
• Be accepted or registered for an approved postgraduate program
• Not currently receiving financial assistance from other sources for the same program

Note: It is essential to note that NSFAS primarily supports students pursuing selected postgraduate diplomas and Honours degrees. Funding for Master’s and Doctoral programs is limited and may not be available for all applicants.

Nsfas Requirements For Postgraduate 2026/2027

Before starting the NSFAS application process for postgraduate courses, 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

Post Graduate Courses Funded By Nsfas

• B Tech – Architecture/Architectural Technology
• B Tech – Biokinetics/Biomedical Technology/Biotechnology
• B Tech: Chiropractic
• B Tech: Clinical Technology/Dental Technology
• B Tech: Emergency Medical Care
• B Tech: Engineering (Chemical/Civil/Electrical/Industrial/Mechanical/Mechatronics/Metallurgy/Refractories)
• B Tech: Forestry
• B Tech: Homoeopathy
• B Tech: Nursing/Nursing Science/Community Nursing/Primary Healthcare/Occupational Nursing)
• Postgraduate Certificate in Education
• Postgraduate Diploma in Accounting
• Bachelor of Laws/LLB

The NSFAS Application Process for Postgraduate Students For 2026/2027

The application process for postgraduate NSFAS funding is straightforward and primarily conducted online. Follow these steps to apply:

Create an account:

• Visit the NSFAS website (www.nsfas.org.za) and create an account using your details, including your South African ID number and a valid email address.

Complete the application form:

• Log in to your account and fill out the application form. You’ll be required to provide information about your personal background, educational history, and financial circumstances.

Submit supporting documents:

Along with your application, you must submit the following supporting documents:

• Certified copy of your ID or birth certificate
• Proof of household income (payslips or affidavits)
• Academic transcripts or final undergraduate results (if available)
• Proof of acceptance or registration for an approved postgraduate program

Review and submit:

• Double-check your application and ensure all required fields are completed before submitting.

Application confirmation:

• You will receive a confirmation email and SMS once your application has been submitted successfully.

 What Happens After You Apply

• Once you have submitted your postgraduate NSFAS application, the review process will commence. NSFAS will assess your eligibility based on the information and documents you provided. Successful applicants will receive a notification via email and SMS, typically by April. If your application is unsuccessful, you can appeal with the relevant supporting documents.

Does Nsfas Still Provide Funds For Postgraduate Courses

NO, starting from the 2021 academic year, NSFAS will cease to offer financial support for postgraduate studies. This encompasses various qualifications such as postgraduate certificates, postgraduate diplomas, honors degrees, master’s degrees, and PhD degrees.

Students who received funding in 2020 for any of the postgraduate qualifications supported by NSFAS will continue to receive funding in 2021 to complete their respective courses.

Nsfas Contact Details

Postgraduate studies can open doors to exciting career opportunities, and NSFAS funding is a valuable resource for South African students seeking financial aid. By understanding the eligibility requirements, following the application process, and adhering to key deadlines, you can maximise your chances of obtaining the support you need to advance your education. Hope the information given above has been useful to you. If you have any suggestions, kindly leave them in the comments section provided below. You can also visit the official website of Nsfas for more clarification.

Related Posts:

How NSFAS works

nsfas login portal
NSFAS track my status
NSFAS bursaries for 2026