If you are planning to study at a public university or TVET college in South Africa, applying for NSFAS funding for 2026/2027 could be your key to accessing higher education without financial stress. The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) provides financial assistance to qualifying students from low-income households who cannot afford to pay for tertiary education. However, before applying, it’s important to understand who qualifies for NSFAS funding and who does not, to ensure that your application is successful.

To apply for NSFAS as a qualifying student for 2026/2027, you must be a South African citizen with a combined household income of R350,000 or less per year. All SASSA grant recipients automatically qualify for NSFAS funding. If you are a student with a disability, your household income should not exceed R600,000 annually. In addition, students who began their studies before 2018 may still qualify if their household income is R122,000 or less per year. NSFAS covers tuition fees, accommodation, transport, and other essential study materials for approved qualifications at public institutions.

However, not everyone can apply. Students studying at private institutions, those already funded 100% by another source, or individuals wanting to pursue a second undergraduate or certificate qualification, do not qualify for NSFAS. Also, students enrolled in courses not approved by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) or not accredited by SAQA will be ineligible. For the 2026/2027 NSFAS application cycle, eligible students should prepare their documents early and apply through the official NSFAS portal before the closing date to secure funding for their studies.

Nsfas 2026/2027 Online Application Date

• The online application for the NSFAS 2026/2027 academic year opens from September 2025, and the application will close on the 15th of November 2025.
• Applicants are to submit their applications on time to meet the application deadline because applications that are submitted after the online application deadline will not be processed.

Read: Maluti TVET College Nsfas Application 2026/2027

Qualifying Students Eligible To Apply For NSFAS 2026/2027

To apply for NSFAS funding, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be a South African citizen.
• Be a SASSA grant recipient, as they automatically qualify for funding.
• Have a combined household income of R350,000 or less per year.
• Applicants with a disability must have a combined household income not exceeding R600,000 per year.
• Students who began their studies before 2018 must have a combined household income of R122,000 or less per year.

Required Documents To Be Submitted By Qualifying Students During The Online Nsfas Application 2026/2027

When submitting an online NSFAS application, it is essential to provide the required supporting documents to ensure a smooth application process and increase the chances of receiving funding. Here is a list of supporting documents that you may need to submit during the online NSFAS application:

• South African ID document/card or unabridged birth certificate:

A certified copy of the applicant’s ID or birth certificate to confirm their South African citizenship.

• ID documents/cards of parents/guardian/spouse:

Certified copies of the ID documents or cards for the applicant’s parents, guardian, or spouse to verify their identities.

• Proof of income for parents/guardian/spouse:

Recent payslips, pension slips, or affidavits if self-employed for the applicant’s parents, guardian, or spouse, confirm the household income.

• Proof of residence:

A recent utility bill, rental statement, or affidavit confirming the applicant’s home address.

• Signed consent form:

A completed and signed consent form, which allows NSFAS to verify the applicant’s and their family’s income with the South African Revenue Service (SARS).

• Academic records:

For applicants who have already completed Grade 12, a certified copy of their final Grade 12 results or National Senior Certificate (NSC) is required. For applicants currently in Grade 12, a certified copy of their latest school results.

• Proof of admission:

A copy of the acceptance letter or proof of registration from the public university or TVET college where the applicant has been admitted or is applying for admission.

• Students with disabilities:

A completed and signed Disability Annexure A form, along with any relevant medical records or supporting documents.

• Other relevant documents:

Additional documentation may be required depending on the applicant’s specific circumstances, such as proof of NSFAS-approved allowances, retrenchment letters, or death certificates for deceased parents.

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