Top Reasons NSFAS Applications Get Rejected (and How to Avoid Them)

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is South Africa’s biggest source of public funding for university and TVET college students. Every year, it pays for tuition fees, accommodation, transport, and learning materials for hundreds of thousands of learners who meet its eligibility criteria. For many families, NSFAS is the only way a child can access higher education.

But despite its reach, thousands of applications are rejected every year — often because of avoidable mistakes. Missing a single document, entering a wrong ID number, or applying too late can mean the difference between studying with funding and struggling without it.

This guide breaks down the top reasons NSFAS applications get rejected, explains why they happen, and — most importantly — shows you how to avoid them.

Understanding NSFAS Application Requirements

Before looking at the reasons for rejection, it’s crucial to understand what NSFAS expects from applicants. Meeting these requirements forms the foundation of a successful application.

Basic Eligibility Criteria:

• South African citizenship: Only South African citizens with a valid ID number can apply.
• Household income threshold: Your combined household income must be below R350 000 per year (or below R600 000 for students with disabilities).
• Public institution enrolment: You must be accepted or registered at a public university or TVET college. Private institutions are not funded.
• Supporting documents: Applicants must upload valid, clear, and certified documents to verify their identity, income, and academic status.

Tip: Missing even one requirement can lead to automatic rejection, no matter how well you meet the others.

Top Reasons NSFAS Applications Get Rejected

1. Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation

This is one of the biggest reasons applications fail. Common document errors include:

• Missing ID copies of parents or guardians.
• No proof of income (or outdated payslips).
• Not submitting affidavits for unemployed parents.
• Uploading blurry, incomplete, or invalid files.

How to Avoid It:

• Double-check required documents: Before starting your application, review NSFAS’s checklist.
• Use certified copies where necessary: Certification must be done at a police station, Post Office, or other authorised office.
• Upload clear scans: Take pictures in good lighting or use a scanner. Avoid cropped or partially visible documents.
• Label files properly: Name your files clearly (e.g. “ID_Kholofelo_Modise.pdf”).

2. Household Income Above the Threshold

NSFAS automatically rejects applications if the combined household income exceeds R350 000 per year (R600 000 for students with disabilities). But many rejections happen due to:

• Miscalculating household income.
• Forgetting to declare certain income streams.
• Not submitting proof for self-employed guardians.

How to Avoid It:

• Provide accurate payslips or affidavits: Ask your employer or use a commissioner of oaths for affidavits.
• Declare all sources of income: Include salaries, social grants, rental income, or any other earnings.
• Explain unusual situations: If income fluctuates, submit supporting documents like bank statements or SARS returns.

3. Incorrect Personal Details

Incorrect personal details (wrong ID number, contact details, spelling mistakes) can cause verification issues with the Department of Home Affairs or SARS. NSFAS uses these databases to check your identity and income.

How to Avoid It:

• Review personal information carefully: Double-check your ID number, name spelling, and date of birth.
• Match official documents: Use the same details as on your ID book, birth certificate, or passport.
• Update contact information: Ensure your email and phone number are active so you don’t miss important notifications.

4. Failure to Meet Academic Requirements

NSFAS does not fund students indefinitely. The N+Rule limits funding to your qualification’s minimum duration plus one extra year (for example, a three-year degree plus one year).

Returning students may lose funding if:

• They fail too many modules.
• They exceed the N+Rule timeframe.

How to Avoid It:

• Understand NSFAS’s academic rules: Check your institution’s financial aid office for your personal status.
• Seek academic support early: Use tutoring centres, study groups, or counselling services.
• Plan your modules wisely: Don’t overload your schedule if it could harm your performance.

5. Already Funded by Another Bursary or Scholarship

NSFAS does not fund students who already receive a full bursary from another source. Double funding is not allowed.

How to Avoid It:

• Be transparent about existing funding: Declare any bursary or scholarship you’re receiving.
• Check whether partial funding is possible: Some students can combine a partial bursary with NSFAS if the total still falls short. Always verify with NSFAS first.

6. Fraudulent or Misleading Information

Submitting fake documents, false income details, or misleading information leads to outright rejection — and possible blacklisting from NSFAS funding.

How to Avoid It:

• Be honest: Only submit verifiable information.
• Keep originals: NSFAS can request originals at any time.
• Don’t “adjust” income: Even if your household income is slightly above the threshold, false information can get you banned.

7. Late Application Submission

Missing the application deadline results in automatic rejection. NSFAS applications typically open in the last quarter of the year for the following academic cycle.

How to Avoid It:

• Track NSFAS deadlines: Follow NSFAS’s official channels, social media, and your institution’s notices.
• Apply early: Don’t wait for the closing date — earlier applications allow time to fix errors.
• Set reminders: Use your phone calendar or email alerts.

8. Technical Errors During Online Submission

With thousands of students applying online, technical glitches can happen. Common issues include:

• Uploads failing due to poor internet.
• Time-outs while completing the form.
• Not saving progress or confirming submission.

How to Avoid It:

• Use a stable internet connection: Apply from a campus, library, or public Wi-Fi zone if necessary.
• Save progress frequently: Don’t complete everything in one go if your internet is unstable.
• Confirm successful submission: NSFAS will provide a reference number. Keep it safe.

What to Do if Your NSFAS Application is Rejected

If you receive a rejection notice, don’t panic — you can appeal.

Steps to Appeal a Rejection:

1. Log into the myNSFAS portal.
2. Click “Track Funding Progress” to view your application status.
3. Select “Submit Appeal.”
4. Upload supporting documents that address the rejection reason.
5. Submit your appeal before the deadline.

Documents to Prepare for an Appeal:

• Updated proof of income or affidavits.
• Corrected ID or academic records.
• Letters explaining special circumstances (e.g. sudden job loss of a parent).

Common Appeal Mistakes to Avoid:

• Missing the appeal deadline.
• Uploading the same incorrect documents.
• Not explaining changes or exceptional circumstances.

Pro Tips to Ensure a Smooth NSFAS Application

• Apply early: Avoid the last-minute rush and give yourself time to fix mistakes.
• Keep both digital and hard copies: Store your documents on a flash drive or cloud service.
• Use a stable internet connection: Especially when uploading large files.
• Check your myNSFAS portal regularly: Respond quickly to requests for additional information.
• Visit your institution’s financial aid office: They can help you complete your application correctly.
• Stay informed: Follow NSFAS on social media or subscribe to updates from reputable student funding sites.

Read more: NSFAS 2026 Applications Supporting Documents

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I apply for NSFAS if I’m doing a second degree?
Yes, but only if you haven’t exceeded the N+Rule and meet the income criteria.

2. Does NSFAS fund postgraduate studies?
Generally, NSFAS does not fund postgraduate degrees except for specific courses like teaching or nursing — check the latest NSFAS list.

3. What happens if my household income changes after applying?
Notify NSFAS immediately and provide updated documents. Failing to disclose changes can result in cancellation of funding.

4. Can I get NSFAS if I study part-time?
NSFAS funding is primarily for full-time students at public institutions. Some part-time students may qualify under special circumstances, but it’s not guaranteed.

5. How long does NSFAS take to approve applications?
Processing times vary, but early applications are more likely to be processed before registration deadlines.

6. Is it possible to get funding after an appeal?
Yes, many students win their appeals if they provide the correct supporting documents and meet the criteria.

7. Do I need to reapply every year?
First-time applicants must apply once. Returning students only reapply if they change institutions or qualifications — otherwise, their funding rolls over if they meet requirements.

8. What if I don’t have one or both parents?
You must submit affidavits or death certificates to explain the situation.

9. Does NSFAS cover private accommodation?
It may, but only if it’s accredited by your institution and within the NSFAS housing allowance limits.

10. How do I know if my documents uploaded correctly?
Check the myNSFAS portal for upload status. If uncertain, re-upload or contact NSFAS support.

Also check: How to Reapply for NSFAS 2026 if You Were Rejected Before

Most NSFAS rejections are avoidable. By preparing your documents carefully, checking your details, and applying early, you dramatically increase your chances of being approved. Remember that NSFAS deals with hundreds of thousands of applications — the more complete and accurate yours is, the faster it can be processed.

If your application was rejected, don’t give up. Use the appeal process, fix the issues, and submit the correct documents. Many students succeed on their second attempt.

For step-by-step guides, funding updates, and more tips on navigating student finance, visit Nasi iSpani’s NSFAS 2026 series — your go-to resource for making your higher education journey a success.