How to Apply for NSFAS 2026 | Step-by-Step Guide for South African Students

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How to Apply for NSFAS 2026
A Step-by-Step Guide to Access Free Higher Education Funding

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) provides financial assistance to eligible South African students enrolled at public universities or TVET colleges. Follow this guide to apply for 2026 funding:

Step 1: Check if You Qualify

Before applying, confirm that you meet the eligibility criteria:

  • You are a South African citizen

  • You are applying to or currently studying at a public university or TVET college

  • Your combined household income does not exceed R350,000 per year

  • If you have a disability, your household income must not exceed R600,000 per year

  • You are not currently funded by NSFAS, unless you are reapplying or appealing

Step 2: Create a myNSFAS Account

  1. Visit www.nsfas.org.za

  2. Click on the “myNSFAS” tab and select “Register”

  3. Enter your ID number, full name, email address, and create a secure password

  4. Upload a certified copy of your ID

  5. Verify your account using the One-Time Pin (OTP) sent to your email or phone

Step 3: Complete the Online Application

After registration:

  • Log in to your myNSFAS account

  • Click on “Apply”

  • Fill in your personal, academic, and financial details

  • Upload all required documents (see below)

  • Submit your application

Step 4: Upload Required Documents

Ensure all documents are clear and certified within the last 3 months. These may include:

  • Certified copy of your ID or birth certificate

  • Parent or guardian’s ID

  • Proof of income (e.g., payslips, affidavits, or SASSA slip)

  • Proof of residence

  • Academic transcripts or latest results (if already studying)

  • Disability Annexure A form (if applicable)

Step 5: Track Your Application

  • Log in to your myNSFAS portal regularly

  • Check for updates or document requests

  • Monitor your application status: approved, rejected, or pending appeal

Appeals and Reapplications

If your application is rejected, you can submit an appeal with supporting documents. Reapplications follow the same steps as new applications.

Important Notes

  • NSFAS applications are free—do not pay anyone to apply on your behalf

  • Apply only via the official NSFAS website

  • Applications typically open in October and close in January each year

For more information, visit www.nsfas.org.za

NSFAS-Funded Institutions and Banking Verification Guidelines (2026)

To fully benefit from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), students must ensure they meet all requirements, including using accredited accommodation and submitting correct banking details. This helps avoid financial delays and enables students to focus on their academic success.

Accredited Accommodation Requirements

NSFAS-funded students must secure accommodation that is accredited by their institution. Staying in approved housing ensures that NSFAS pays allowances directly to service providers, preventing payment issues. Accommodation providers should also comply with NSFAS standards to support seamless operations and timely reimbursements.

Institutions Funded by NSFAS

NSFAS only funds students who are enrolled at public universities or TVET colleges in South Africa. Students at private institutions are not eligible for NSFAS support.

Public Universities Funded by NSFAS

NSFAS supports 26 public universities, including:

  • University of Cape Town (UCT)

  • University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)

  • University of Pretoria (UP)

  • University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)

  • University of Johannesburg (UJ)

  • Stellenbosch University (SU)

  • University of the Free State (UFS)

  • North-West University (NWU)

  • Nelson Mandela University (NMU)

  • University of Limpopo (UL)

  • Rhodes University

  • University of South Africa (UNISA) – for distance learning

  • …and others

Public TVET Colleges Funded by NSFAS

NSFAS also funds students at all 50 public TVET colleges across South Africa. These colleges are located nationwide and include:

  • Central Johannesburg TVET College

  • Ekurhuleni East and West TVET Colleges

  • South West Gauteng TVET College

  • Tshwane North and South TVET Colleges

  • Coastal KZN TVET College

  • Buffalo City TVET College

  • …and more

Verifying Your NSFAS Banking Details

To receive allowances without delay, students must follow these steps:

  1. Use a personal bank account registered in your name.

  2. Ensure your ID number and name are entered correctly.

  3. Keep the account active and ready to receive deposits.

  4. Double-check all information before submitting it through the NSFAS platform.

If your banking details fail verification, correct and resubmit them immediately. Accurate and up-to-date information is critical for timely disbursement of funds.

Following these guidelines will help ensure a smooth NSFAS experience, allowing students to focus on their education without unnecessary financial interruptions.

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