NSFAS qualifying students refer to individuals who meet the eligibility requirements set forth by the NSFAS in South Africa. These requirements usually include factors such as financial need, academic performance, citizenship or residency status, and enrollment in approved academic programs. Qualifying students are eligible to receive financial assistance from NSFAS to help cover the costs of their tertiary education, including tuition fees, accommodation, books, and other related expenses

NSFAS is a South African government initiative that provides financial assistance to eligible students who wish to pursue tertiary education at public universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges. As the 2025/2026 academic year approaches, understanding the eligibility requirements for NSFAS funding becomes significant for prospective students and their families.

This article aims to outline the eligibility requirements and provide insights into who can apply for NSFAS funding in the 2025/2026 academic year.

Nsfas 2025/2026 Online Application Date

• The online application for the Nsfas 2025/2026 academic year opens on the 21st of November 2024 and the application will close on the 31st of January 2025.
• Applicants are to submit their applications on time to meet the application deadline because applications that will be submitted after the online application deadline will not be processed.

Read: Maluti TVET College Nsfas Application 2024/2025

Who Is An Eligible Nsfas Qualifying Students 2024/2025

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

• 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 2020 and whose household income is not more than R122 000 per annum.

Required Documents To Be Submitted By Qualifying Students During The Online Nsfas Application 2025/2026

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). 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.

Read Also: Nsfas Funding 2024/2025

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