Important: NSFAS 2027 Applications Open – Requirements & Closing Date

Last updated: 21 September 2026

Applications for NSFAS funding for the 2027 academic year are now open, giving eligible students the opportunity to apply for financial support to study at a public university or TVET college in South Africa.

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) opened the 2027 application period on 18 September 2026. The current NSFAS application page lists 31 October 2026 as the closing date. Students are encouraged to apply as early as possible rather than waiting until the deadline.

NSFAS applications are free. Students should only use official NSFAS channels and should never pay someone to submit an application on their behalf or share their NSFAS password or OTP.

NSFAS 2027 applications: Important dates

The 31 October 2026 closing date is currently published on the official NSFAS 2027 application page and was also stated in the Department of Higher Education and Training’s media advisory announcing the application launch.

Important: Applying for NSFAS funding is not the same as applying for admission to a university or TVET college. Students must apply to their chosen institution separately. The Minister of Higher Education and Training has specifically reminded prospective students that a funding application does not guarantee admission to a qualification or institution.

Who can apply for NSFAS funding in 2027?

NSFAS eligibility depends on several factors, including citizenship or residency status, household income, the institution and qualification involved, and academic requirements for continuing students.

According to NSFAS’s current FAQ information, the main financial thresholds are:

NSFAS bursary

For a non-SASSA applicant, the gross combined household income generally needs to be R350,000 or less per year.

Applicants with disabilities may qualify at a higher household-income threshold of R600,000 or less per year.

Verified SASSA grant recipients automatically meet the financial requirement for a bursary, although they still need to meet the other applicable NSFAS requirements.

NSFAS states that gross household income means income before deductions such as tax. For example, depending on the applicant’s circumstances, household income may include the income of parents, legal guardians or a spouse.

Who can study with NSFAS?

NSFAS funding is intended for eligible students at public universities and public TVET colleges. TVET applicants can be considered for eligible programmes such as NC(V), Report 191 and certain other approved programmes, subject to the applicable rules.

NSFAS funding does not generally cover students studying at private higher education institutions or qualifications that are not approved for NSFAS funding.

Related: NSFAS Call Centre & Helpline — How to Get Help with Your Application

Meeting the income threshold does not guarantee funding

It is important to understand that being below the household-income threshold does not automatically mean an application will be approved.

NSFAS also verifies information and considers other applicable eligibility requirements. The official NSFAS FAQ states that meeting the income requirement is only one part of the assessment process.

How to apply for NSFAS 2027

The application process can be completed online.

Step 1: Visit the official NSFAS website

Go directly to:

NSFAS official website

Avoid links sent by unknown people on WhatsApp, Facebook or other social media platforms.

The official NSFAS 2027 application page states that students can apply online using a device with internet access.

Step 2: Create or access your myNSFAS account

New applicants need to create a myNSFAS account using their personal details.

Existing users can log in to their account and proceed with the application.

NSFAS says applicants need an ID number, cellphone number and email address when registering for myNSFAS.

Step 3: Complete your personal information

Make sure the information on your application is accurate and up to date.

This can include personal information and household information that NSFAS uses during its verification process.

Do not rush through this section. Errors in names, ID numbers, household information or other details can create problems during verification.

Step 4: Give the required consent

Applicants may need to provide consent allowing NSFAS to verify information against relevant third-party sources.

NSFAS explains that these checks can be used to verify information supplied during the application.

Step 5: Upload supporting documents

The documents required can depend on your personal circumstances.

NSFAS’s current 2027 application guidance lists documents such as:

• A completed and signed consent form
• A declaration form for applicants aged 34 or younger, where applicable
• A disability annexure and medical report for applicants with disabilities
• An orphan and vulnerable child declaration where applicable

Applicants should follow the document requirements shown on their NSFAS application rather than uploading random documents.

Step 6: Check your application

Before submitting, carefully check:

• Your name
• ID number
• Contact details
• Household information
• Parent, guardian or spouse details where applicable
• Uploaded documents
• Consent forms
• Any other information requested by NSFAS

Make sure documents are clear and readable.

Step 7: Submit the application

Once everything is complete, submit your application before the closing date.

Do not assume that starting an application means you have applied. Make sure the application has actually been submitted.

Step 8: Save your reference number

After submitting, save your NSFAS application reference number.

Take a screenshot, write it down or keep the confirmation message somewhere safe.

Your reference number can be useful when following up on your application.

Step 9: Track your application

Log into myNSFAS regularly to monitor your application.

The NSFAS application system allows applicants to see whether their application is being verified, whether additional documents are required and what outcome has been recorded.

What documents do you need for NSFAS 2027?

There is no single document list that applies identically to every applicant because NSFAS may request different documents depending on an applicant’s circumstances.

The official 2027 NSFAS application guidance currently highlights the following:

NSFAS advises applicants to upload clear documents. Photos taken using a cellphone can be used provided the entire document is visible and the information can be read.

Check your documents before uploading

A document can cause delays if:

• The photo is blurry
• Part of the document is cut off
• Information cannot be read
• A required signature is missing
• Names or ID numbers do not match
• A required page has not been uploaded
• The wrong version of a form has been used

The official NSFAS application guidance specifically warns applicants about these types of document problems.

What does NSFAS funding cover?

For students who qualify, NSFAS funding can cover approved study costs and allowances.

These can include:

Tuition and registration

Approved tuition and registration costs are paid to the relevant public university or TVET college, subject to the applicable NSFAS rules.

Accommodation or transport

Eligible students may receive support for approved accommodation or a transport allowance, depending on their circumstances and the applicable funding rules.

Learning materials

University students can receive a learning-material allowance for approved academic books, materials and/or a learning device under the applicable NSFAS rules.

Personal care

Qualifying students can receive a personal-care allowance under the relevant NSFAS funding rules.

Important: Students should not assume that every NSFAS beneficiary receives the same cash allowances. The amount and type of support can depend on factors such as the institution, qualification, accommodation arrangements and applicable funding rules.

NSFAS 2027 and the “missing middle”

Not every student who needs financial assistance falls within the NSFAS bursary income threshold.

NSFAS also has a Missing-Middle Loan Scheme for eligible students whose household income falls between R350,000 and R600,000 per year for undergraduate studies.

Unlike a bursary, a loan is repayable under the applicable loan agreement and conditions.

Students who fall outside the NSFAS bursary threshold should therefore not automatically assume that they have no funding options. They can investigate the applicable NSFAS student loan requirements as well as other bursaries, scholarships and institutional funding opportunities.

Do NSFAS applicants also need to apply to university or TVET college?

Yes.

This is one of the most important things applicants need to understand.

An NSFAS application is an application for financial assistance. It is not an application for admission to a university or TVET college.

The Department of Higher Education and Training has specifically advised students to apply to the institution they want to attend and separately apply for NSFAS funding if they need financial assistance.

For example, a student who wants to study at a public university should:

1. Choose a qualification.
2. Apply for admission to the university.
3. Apply for NSFAS funding.
4. Complete any additional institutional requirements.
5. Monitor both the admission and NSFAS applications.

The same principle applies to students applying to public TVET colleges.

TVET students: Apply for admission early

There is an especially important deadline for prospective TVET students.

At the launch of the NSFAS 2027 application cycle, the Department of Higher Education and Training said that applications for admission to public TVET colleges for the 2027 academic year were open until 30 September 2026.

This means students interested in TVET colleges should not wait until the NSFAS funding deadline.

Apply for TVET college admission first and then make sure your NSFAS funding application is also completed if you need financial assistance.

What happens after you submit your NSFAS application?

Submitting an application is not the end of the process.

NSFAS can verify information provided by applicants against relevant third-party information sources. The current application system explains that verification can involve sources including Home Affairs, SARS and SASSA.

You may see different application statuses as your application moves through the process.

For example, an application may indicate that:

• Verification is taking place
• Additional documents are required
• The application is being assessed
• The applicant meets the funding criteria
• The application was unsuccessful

The important thing is to keep checking your myNSFAS account rather than assuming that no news means your application has been rejected.

What if NSFAS asks for missing documents?

If NSFAS requests additional or missing documents, do not ignore the notification.

Log into your myNSFAS account and check exactly what has been requested.

Upload the correct document and make sure it is clear and complete.

NSFAS has previously warned that applications can remain incomplete when applicants fail to provide outstanding documents within the specified period.

Can you appeal an unsuccessful NSFAS application?

There is an appeals process for applicants who meet the applicable requirements for an appeal.

The reasons and supporting evidence required depend on why an application was unsuccessful.

NSFAS’s appeals information includes circumstances such as disputed household income, changes in household income, certain family circumstances, disability-related eligibility and academic progression issues.

If your application is unsuccessful, check the specific reason given on myNSFAS before deciding whether you have grounds to appeal.

Do not submit an appeal without checking what evidence NSFAS requires for your particular rejection reason.

NSFAS 2027 application tips

1. Apply early

Do not wait for the final week.

Applying early gives you more time to identify errors, upload missing documents and resolve problems.

2. Use the official NSFAS website

Start from:

www.nsfas.org.za

Be careful with links shared through unofficial social media accounts and WhatsApp groups.

3. Never pay someone to apply

NSFAS applications are free.

If somebody asks you for money to “secure” NSFAS funding or promises to guarantee approval, be cautious.

4. Never share your OTP or password

Your login details and OTPs should remain private.

The NSFAS campaign specifically warns applicants not to share their passwords or OTPs.

5. Check every document

A document that is blurry, incomplete or incorrectly completed can delay the application process.

6. Keep your cellphone number active

NSFAS may use the contact details supplied by applicants to communicate important information.

7. Save your reference number

Do not close your application and forget about the reference number.

Keep it somewhere safe.

8. Apply for admission separately

Remember that NSFAS funding does not equal university or TVET admission.

9. Check myNSFAS regularly

Do not rely only on social media posts or messages from friends for updates about your application.

Is there an NSFAS application fee?

No. Applying for NSFAS funding is free.

The official NSFAS 2027 application page clearly states that there is no application fee.

Students should be particularly careful of people who claim they can guarantee NSFAS approval in exchange for payment.

NSFAS also warns applicants against sharing sensitive information such as passwords and OTPs.

If you suspect suspicious activity, use the official NSFAS contact channels rather than giving your information to an unofficial “agent”.

NSFAS 2027 application closing date

The official NSFAS application page currently lists:

NSFAS 2027 applications close on 31 October 2026.

With a fixed application window, students should submit their applications as early as possible.

Do not wait until 31 October to start the application.

NSFAS 2027: Quick checklist

Before submitting your application, make sure you have:

• Created or accessed your myNSFAS account
• Checked your personal details
• Checked your household information
• Completed the required consent information
• Prepared the documents relevant to your circumstances
• Checked that documents are clear and readable
• Applied for admission to your chosen university or TVET college
• Completed the NSFAS application
• Submitted the application
• Saved your NSFAS reference number
• Checked your myNSFAS account for updates

Where to apply for NSFAS 2027

Students should apply through the official NSFAS platform.

Official NSFAS website:
www.nsfas.org.za

The official NSFAS 2027 application page provides access to the application process, document guidance and application tracking.

For NSFAS assistance, the official site currently lists the toll-free number 08000 67327 and info@nsfas.org.za

Frequently Asked Questions about NSFAS 2027

When do NSFAS 2027 applications open?

NSFAS 2027 applications opened on 18 September 2026.

When do NSFAS 2027 applications close?

The official NSFAS 2027 application page lists 31 October 2026 as the closing date.

Is it free to apply for NSFAS?

Yes. There is no NSFAS application fee.

How much can my household earn to qualify for NSFAS?

For a non-SASSA applicant seeking a bursary, the current NSFAS FAQ lists a gross combined household-income threshold of R350,000 or less per year. The threshold for applicants with disabilities is R600,000 or less, while verified SASSA grant recipients automatically meet the financial requirement for a bursary.

Does applying for NSFAS guarantee university admission?

No. Students must apply for admission to the university or TVET college separately. NSFAS funding eligibility does not guarantee a place in a qualification.

Can TVET students apply for NSFAS?

Yes. NSFAS provides funding to eligible students at public TVET colleges, subject to the applicable qualification, financial and academic requirements.

What should I do after submitting my NSFAS application?

Save your reference number and regularly check your myNSFAS account for application updates, requests for additional documents and your eventual funding outcome.

What if my NSFAS application is rejected?

Check the rejection reason shown on myNSFAS. If you meet the requirements for an appeal, NSFAS provides an appeals process with specific supporting-document requirements depending on the reason for rejection.

Final reminder for students

If you need financial assistance for your studies in 2027, do not wait until the last day to apply for NSFAS.

The 2027 application window opened on 18 September 2026 and the current official NSFAS application page lists 31 October 2026 as the closing date. Apply through the official NSFAS platform, check your information carefully, upload the correct documents, save your reference number and keep checking myNSFAS for updates.

And remember: NSFAS funding and admission are two separate applications. If you want to study at a university or TVET college in 2027, you also need to apply to the institution offering your chosen qualification.

Never pay anyone to apply for NSFAS on your behalf and never share your NSFAS password or OTP.