If you’re a South African student hoping to study at a university or TVET college in 2026 but don’t have the funds, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is your best option.
This step-by-step 2026 guide will help you avoid mistakes and increase your chances of approval.
Table of Contents
What is NSFAS?
NSFAS is a government-funded financial aid scheme that pays for:
- Tuition fees
- Registration fees
- Accommodation or transport
- Meals and study materials It’s available to South African students from poor and working-class households (earning less than R350,000 per year).
NSFAS Application Dates for 2026
- Opening Date: Expected around September 2026
- Closing Date: Likely by 31 January 2026 (Always confirm dates on the official NSFAS website).
Who Can Apply?
You are eligible if:
- You’re a South African citizen
- You’re applying to or enrolled at a public university or TVET college
- Your household income is less than R350,000 per year
- You’re already receiving SASSA grants (automatically qualifies)
- You have a valid email address and cellphone number
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for NSFAS
Carefully read and understand each step before action, and follow all the tips.
Step 1: Create a myNSFAS Account
- Go to www.nsfas.org.za
- Click “myNSFAS” and select “Register”
- Enter your ID number, name, surname, cellphone number, and email address
- Create a secure password
- Upload a copy of your ID or birth certificate
Tip: Use your cellphone number and email for all communication.
Step 2: Log In and Start Your Application
- After registering, log in and click “Apply”
- Fill in your personal information, academic details, and financial background
- Upload all required documents (see below)
Step 3: Upload Supporting Documents
These are essential:
- Certified copy of ID
- Parent(s) or guardian(s)’ ID
- Proof of income (e.g., payslips, SASSA confirmation)
- Consent form (to allow NSFAS to verify income)
- Proof of residence
- Academic results or proof of registration/admission
Tip: All documents must be clear, certified, and recent (within 3 months).
Step 4: Submit and Track Your Application
- Double-check your details before submitting
- You’ll receive an application reference number
- Regularly log in to your account to track your status
AVOID THESE COMMON MISTAKES
- Submitting blurry or incorrect documents
- Using someone else’s email or number
- Missing the application deadline
- Forgetting to sign and upload the consent form
What Happens After You Apply?
NSFAS will:
- Verify your information with SASSA, SARS, and Home Affairs
- Update your status (e.g., “Awaiting Evaluation”, “Funding Eligible”, etc.)
- Notify you via SMS/email once approved or rejected
- If successful, funding is disbursed through your institution or via the NSFAS Mastercard system.
FINAL TIPS FOR SUCCESS
- Apply early, don’t wait for the deadline
- Keep your documents ready and updated
- Ask for help at your school or from the NYDA (National Youth Development Agency)
- Follow @myNSFAS on Twitter and Facebook for real-time updates
- Follow our page for more updates on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/beraportal
