Expanding Opportunities for South African Students in 2026/2027

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) gives students another opportunity to apply for funding during the second semester of the 2026/2027 academic year. This second-semester application period is designed for students who were unable to apply during the main application window or who are starting new courses mid-year at public universities or TVET colleges. NSFAS funding helps cover essential study costs such as tuition fees, registration, accommodation, transport, and learning materials, making higher education accessible to students from low-income households.

For the 2026/2027 second semester, NSFAS will continue to fund South African citizens and permanent residents whose combined household income does not exceed R350,000 per year, or R600,000 per year for persons living with disabilities. Students who meet these requirements can apply online through the official NSFAS portal before the closing date. Applicants are encouraged to upload all required documents, such as the NSFAS Consent Form, Declaration Form, and, if applicable, the Disability Annexure Form, to avoid delays in processing.

It is important to note that NSFAS only funds students registered at public universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges accredited by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET). Private institutions are not eligible for NSFAS funding. If you missed the first application phase, the NSFAS second-semester application gives you another chance to secure financial aid for your studies. Make sure to submit your application on time, ensure your information is accurate, and track your status through the myNSFAS portal to confirm your funding for the 2026/2027 academic year.

Read: NSFAS 2026/2027 Applications Open Date Is 28 SeptemberNsfas For Second Semester Online Application Date 2026/2027

• NSFAS will provide funds for students who have met the application requirements and meet all the criteria as provided by NSFAS. Students who are currently applying to be admitted into the second semester season in their various institutions can apply for NSFAS to cater for their education.
• The 2026/2027 online application for NSFAS for the second semester will begin from September 2025, and the application will close on the 15th of November 2025.

Who Is Eligible For NSFAS Funding For The Second Semester 2026/2027

Students eligible for NSFAS funding during the second semester of the 2026/2027 academic year fall into one of the following categories:

• New applicants:

Students who did not apply for NSFAS funding during the first semester, missed the initial deadline, or recently became eligible for financial assistance may apply for funding for the second semester.

• Existing beneficiaries:

Some students may experience delays in receiving their NSFAS funding due to administrative or other issues. These students may receive their funding during the second semester.

• Appeals and reconsideration:

Students who were initially denied NSFAS funding but successfully appealed the decision may receive financial assistance starting from the second semester.

Documents Needed In Applying For NSFAS Second Semester 2026/2027

When applying for financial assistance through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), applicants are required to submit several supporting documents to complete their application. These documents help NSFAS assess the applicant’s eligibility and financial needs. The required supporting documents may include:

• Certified copy of your South African ID or birth certificate:
• Certified ID copies of parents/guardian/spouse
• Proof of income for parents/guardian/spouse
• Death certificate(s) (if applicable)
• Proof of residence
• Proof of registration or acceptance at a public higher education institution or TVET college
• Academic records
• Proof of any disability (if applicable)
• Signed consent form: NSFAS requires applicants to sign a consent form that allows the organisation to verify their personal and financial information with external parties, such as the South African Revenue Service (SARS).

Nsfas For Second Semester Application Process 2026/2027

By extending financial assistance to students during the second semester, NSFAS helps to ensure that deserving students have access to higher education throughout the academic year. The process below shows the application procedure for applying for NSFAS:

• Visit the NSFAS website: www.nsfas.org.za online
• Click on the myNSFAS tab
• Create your myNSFAS account
• Click on the Apply tab
• Answer the following questions you see on your screen
• Update all your personal information
• Upload all the required supporting documents
• Click on “Submit” to send your application for review.

Nsfas Contact Details

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.

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