NSFAS Application 2026 Opening Date

NSFAS online application opens from 1st September 2025 and remains close until 31 January 2026. In between, students can apply online via www.nsfas.org.za and fill online enrollment form. Just for students’ clarification, the late application form submission date will be announced later.

Is the dream of a university education in South Africa calling your name, but financial constraints holding you back? The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) might just be the answer to your prayers. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the anticipated NSFAS Online Application 2026 cycle, from estimated opening dates to eligibility requirements and the application process itself.

NSFAS Application 2026 Dates

Note: Everyone is asking the NSFAS closing date for 2025-2026, which is expected to be 31 January 2026, but not sure because this info was gathered from some online sources.

NSFAS Documents Needed

• To apply, you must possess a valid South African ID, which can be either an ID book or a smart ID card. Please note that applications are not open to foreign individuals.
• Your total household income must not exceed R350,000 per year.
• If you have a disability, your household income should not surpass R600,000 per year.
• To qualify for funding at both universities and TVET colleges, you must have completed grade 12 at a secondary school.

NSFAS Bursary

The NSFAS bursary is available to all South African citizens and permanent residents whose combined household income does not exceed R350,000 per annum.

For individuals living with disabilities, the income threshold is R600,000 per annum to ensure greater financial accessibility and support.

Allowances for University Students

Allowances for TVET College Students in 2026-2026

How to Apply for the NSFAS Online Application 2026

South African ID:

• Make sure you have a valid South African ID document.

Academic Records:

• Collect your most recent academic transcripts or results.

Proof of Income:

• Gather documents that verify your household income (e.g., payslips, and tax returns).
• If you’re a dependent, you’ll need your parent or guardian’s income documentation.

Additional Documents:

• Depending on your situation, you might need other documents (e.g., proof of disability or a parent’s death certificate).
• Check the NSFAS website for a complete list.

Visit the Website:

• Go to the official NSFAS website (my.nsfas.co.za).

Click “MyNSFAS”:

• Look for the “MyNSFAS” tab or button and click on it.

Register:

• Follow the instructions to create a new account.
• You’ll need to provide your personal information and create a username and password.

Log In:

• Log in to your MyNSFAS account.

Start Application:

• Click on the “Apply” tab or button to start a new application for the 2026 funding cycle.

Fill in Details:

• Carefully complete the application form, providing accurate and up-to-date information.
• This includes personal details, contact information, academic history, and financial information.

Upload Documents:

• Upload scanned copies or clear photos of all the required supporting documents.
• Ensure they are legible and in the correct format (PDF is usually preferred).

Review:

• Before submitting, double-check all the information you’ve provided and make sure your supporting documents are uploaded correctly.

Submit:

• Click the “Submit” button to send your application.
• You’ll usually receive a confirmation message or email.

Note: When you submit application online then must read how to upload documents on NSFAS portal. Massive candidates just submit application but never know regarding upload documents.

MyNSFAS Account:

• Log in to your MyNSFAS account regularly to track the progress of your application.

Status Updates:

• NSFAS will communicate any updates or requests for additional information through your MyNSFAS account or via email.

Processing Time:

• NSFAS typically takes several weeks to process applications.
• Be patient and avoid contacting them unnecessarily unless you have a specific query.

Notification:

• You’ll be notified of the outcome of your application through your MyNSFAS account or via email.
• If successful, you’ll receive details about your funding.

NSFAS 2026 Reapplication and Registration

Registration and application for 2026 will require a myNSFAS account, which can be created or re-registered at any time.

The process can be completed by following these steps:

• NSFAS has a website at www.nsfas.org.za where you can find more information.
• You can access myNSFAS by clicking on the upper right corner of the NSFAS website.
• There will be a welcome message on the myNSFAS page: “Welcome to myNSFAS.”
• Enter your e-mail address and password to re-register your myNSFAS account.
• You can register by clicking “Register”. If you wish to register your profile, you must provide a copy of your South African ID or unabridged birth certificate.
• Select the checkbox if you want NSFAS to verify and validate your information with a third party.
• Once you’ve entered your ID number, you’ll need to enter your account password.
• Fill in the space provided with your full name and surname according to your ID number.
• Enter your current email address if you have one.
• Make sure your email address is valid.
• If you have a cellphone number, please enter it.
• It is important to choose passwords according to your preferences.
• After that, you will need to confirm your password.
• Once you have copied your ID document, you should upload it.
• Once you register, you will receive a one-time password.
• Within 24 hours, One Time Pins (OTPs) will be sent to your email address and cell phone number.
• Click the submit button once you have entered your OTP.
• The registration process for the NSFAS of 2026 has now been completed.

What Does NSFAS Cover?

• Academic Fee
• Registration Fee
• Food Allowance
• Personal Care Allowance
• Learning Materials
• Allowance of Accommodation
• Travel Allowance

NSFAS 2026 Updates Changes Eligibility

Before embarking on your application journey, it’s crucial to confirm your eligibility for NSFAS funding. You must meet the following requirements:

• Citizenship or Residency: You must be a South African citizen or hold a permanent residency permit.
• Institution: Your intended studies must be at a public university or Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college within South Africa.
• Financial Need: Your combined annual household income must be R350,000 or less.

How to Cancel NSFAS Application

NSFAS has set some eligibility criteria for students who wish to apply for financial aid. It plays a vital role in promoting higher education at an equal level in South Africa and making it more affordable to students.  If an applicant wants to cancel the application, it can easily be canceled by following the steps mentioned in this article. Here below you can find the complete information regarding cancel nsfas application.

Step 1. Log in to NSFAS:

• Go to the NSFAS website nsfas.org.za and log in to your myNSFAS account.

Step 2. Find Your Application:

• Locate the section for viewing applications (“Applications” or “Track Applications”) and find the specific application you want to cancel.

Step 3. Cancel the Application:

• Click “Cancel Application” or “Withdraw Application” next to your chosen application.
• Confirm your decision if prompted and submit the request.

The NSFAS Online application cycle represents a golden opportunity for South African students to realize their dreams of higher education. By understanding the eligibility requirements, following the application process diligently, and staying informed about key dates, you can position yourself for success. Don’t let financial constraints hold you back.