2026 NSFAS Application Opening Date

If you come from a poor background and intend to pursue higher education in 2027, you can consider the National Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). The scheme provides successful students with the necessary funding for expenses like tuition, books, accommodation, food, and travel. New applicants must submit their applications for support during certain times of the year. In this article, we provide information you may need to know about the NSFAS application 2027 opening date as well as the closing date

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2027 NSFAS Application Opening Date

Applications for NSFAS funding for the 2027 academic year opened on 18 September 2026 and close on 31 October 2026. As of 22 October 2026, this application window is open. See the official NSFAS application guidance.

NSFAS Application 2027 Closing Date

For the 2027 academic year, the application deadline is 31 October 2026. NSFAS has announced that there will be no extension of this application period. Submit your application within the published window and check the official NSFAS application guidance for any subsequent notices.

Is NSFAS closed for 2027?

How do I apply for NSFAS 2027?

You can submit your application directly through the NSFAS website or hand in a manual application to NSFAS offices. To apply online, you need to use a computer, tablet, or smartphone, and these devices must be connected to the internet. You must first create and register your MyNSFAS profile on www.nsfas.org.za, which you will use as your account to submit your application, track progress, or check updates related to funding.

After creating your myNSFAS account, click on the “Apply” tab, and answer all the questions that appear on the screen. Then, check and verify your details, upload the required supporting documents, and click “Submit.”

NSFAS has also redesigned its online application process by add ing more channels to cater to the needs of various applicants. The new channels include USSD, a mobile App, and WhatsApp. You can use any of these to apply for NSFAS funding, track your application status

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, or cancel an application. These actions are usually performed through the official web portal.

You need to download a form from the NSFAS website and print it for manual application. You can also visit your nearest application center, where you can get the application form. Complete the form using black ink and capital letters in the blocks provided. Write clearly, and don’t cancel anything. Your parent, guardian, or spouse must sign the consent form, and you need to attach certified copies of the required documents. Sign your completed application form and submit it to the office where you obtained it. You can also post the form to the following address: NSFAS Loans & Bursaries Department, Private Bag X4, Plumstead, 7801, or fax it to 086 644 2822. Alternatively, you can scan the completed documents and email them to apply@nsfas.org.za.

Before submitting your form, ensure you meet the following conditions to increase your chances of qualifying for an NSFAS bursary.

You must be a South African citizen intending to study at a TVET College or public university.
Your family’s combined household income is less than R370 000 per year
People living with disabilities should have a combined household income of less than R600 000 per year
You’re a recipient of the SASSA grant
If you began your studies in 2018, your total household income should not be more than R122 000 per year.

Each application must have the following supporting documents.

Copy of birth certificate, national ID, or passport
Contact number and email address
Copies of parent/guardian or spouse ID
Parent/guardian or spouse’s proof of income (Not required for SASSA grant recipients)
Applicants with disabilities must submit a signed and completed Disability Annexure A Form.
Applicants regarded as vulnerable should submit a signed and completed Vulnerable Child Declaration Consent Form.

Once you qualify and start receiving NSFAS funding, you don’t need to reapply for the entire duration of your registered course. To continue enjoying NSFAS bursary, you should meet the academic requirements and maintain good performance.