Expanding Opportunities for South African Students in 2026/2027

Most higher educational institutions follow a division of the academic year into two semesters. The latter portion, referred to as the second semester, typically ensues after a brief break or holiday following the conclusion of the first semester.

Semesters are characterised by a set number of weeks during which students engage in classes, coursework, and examinations. The second semester usually begins after the conclusion of the first and spans until the end of the academic year.

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government-funded entity in South Africa tasked with providing financial assistance to disadvantaged students pursuing higher education at public universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges.

While the bulk of NSFAS funding is typically allocated at the commencement of the academic year, the organisation also extends support to students throughout the second semester. This article delves into the processes and opportunities available to students seeking NSFAS funding for the second semester of the 2026/2027 academic year.

Read: NSFAS 2026/2027 Applications Open Date Is 28 September

Nsfas 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 on the 1st of September 2025, and the application will close on the 31st of January 2026.

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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