NSFAS helps eligible students fund approved studies at public universities and TVET colleges. Its bursary scheme supports qualifying students from poor and working-class households, while a separate loan scheme serves eligible applicants under different financial rules. A bursary generally does not need to be repaid if its conditions are met; a loan must be repaid according to the signed agreement.
How NSFAS Works
You can apply for NSFAS funding while applying to a public TVET college or university. Funding and admission are separate assessments, and disbursement depends on eligible registration. Private colleges and unapproved qualifications do not automatically qualify.
If you receive bursary funding, the NSFAS Bursary Agreement applies. If you receive loan funding, the Loan Agreement Form applies and sets out your repayment obligations.
Do not apply old loan repayment percentages to every NSFAS award. Repayment depends on the loan scheme, award year and signed agreement. A current bursary is not automatically converted into a loan because you find work; contact NSFAS for the terms of any existing loan debt.
After your funding and registration are confirmed, NSFAS pays approved tuition and allowances through its applicable payment arrangements. The costs covered depend on whether you receive a bursary or a loan and on your approved study and accommodation circumstances.
NSFAS supports approved qualifications at eligible public universities and public TVET colleges. Verify the institution and qualification before making financial commitments.
How Do I Apply for NSFAS Online?
Applying for NSFAS funding is quick and easy. The entire process can be completed online with very limited paperwork involved. But, to make the process even easier, this step-by-step process should be of assistance.
Step 1: Create a MyNSFAS Account
Create a myNSFAS profile with your ID number, working email address and own cellphone number. Create a secure password and complete the account-verification prompts.
Note: Those using a Smart ID will need to attach the back and front of their IDs.
Step 2: Complete an Application
Sign in using your ID number and myNSFAS password. Select Apply on the dashboard to complete the funding application.
From there, you will need to input more information, like your educational background, household income, job status, address, and so on. Ensure you fill in all the spaces on the form accurately and honestly, as NSFAS will double-check the information you provide with third parties like SARS and South African banks.
Step 3: Upload Supporting Documents
Upload the supporting documents requested for your circumstances. Every applicant needs a completed, signed consent form; the portal may also request the following:
- A copy of a valid ID (which can include a temporary ID from Home Affairs)
- Copy of your spouse, parent/s, or legal guardian’s ID
- Income or family-circumstance evidence requested by NSFAS, including the appropriate Declaration Form where parent or guardian information cannot be provided
- If you have a disability, complete the current disability form and supply the medical confirmation requested by NSFAS
Step 4: Submit Your NSFAS Application and Wait for Feedback
After you’ve uploaded your supporting documents, you can click submit on the application. Just be sure that you have all the necessary information, as your application may be declined if your application is lacking.
Is NSFAS Open for 2027 Applications?
Yes. Applications for 2027 funding opened on 18 September 2026 and close on 31 October 2026 at 23:59 South African time. This is the current window as checked on 22 October 2026.
Application dates are announced for each funding cycle. Do not assume that every future cycle will run from September to January; TVET term-specific windows may also differ.
The NSFAS announcement issued on 20 October 2026 confirms 31 October 2026 as the closing date and says there will be no extensions. Submit the application and keep the reference number.
How Do I Check my Status on myNSFAS?
After applying for NSFAS funding, waiting for an outcome can be frustrating, not only because you may need the money to pay for your further education but also because many of your hopes and dreams rely on your funding being approved.
For that reason, you should know how to find your status on myNSFAS.
Step 1: Login to Your myNSFAS Profile
Visit the myNSFAS portal and enter your login details.
Step 2: Navigate to Track Application
Once you’re on your dashboard, navigate to the tab that says “Track Application.” From there, you will be redirected to a page that will show you the status of your NSFAS application.
Who is Eligible for NSFAS Funding, and What is the Age Limit for NSFAS?
Older students may apply for eligible studies; age alone does not establish eligibility. NSFAS applies financial, academic, qualification and study-duration requirements. Its current FAQ also explains income assessment for financially self-sufficient independent applicants over 34.
For bursary funding, the main criteria include:
- Gross combined household income of R350,000 or less per year for a non-SASSA applicant, or R600,000 or less for a person with disabilities; verified qualifying SASSA recipients meet the financial criterion
- South African citizenship or permanent residency and admission or registration at an eligible public university or TVET college; you can apply for funding before final admission
- An approved undergraduate university or TVET qualification, plus the applicable academic and study-duration requirements
Meeting these categories does not guarantee funding. NSFAS verifies your information, institution and qualification against the rules for the relevant year.
Also Read: MyNsfas Account: How to Access your Nsfas Account
What Happens if My Funding Application Gets Rejected by NSFAS?
If you are declined and are eligible to appeal, use myNSFAS to submit your appeal with the required supporting documents within 30 days of the outcome notification. This deadline applies to eligible first-time and continuing applicants; consult NSFAS’s appeal guidance and the reason for your decision.
If you need more information about the application process and how the funding works, and if you are eligible for funding, visit the NSFAS website or message them on Twitter @myNSFAS or Facebook @nsfas.org.za.
