NSFAS Appeal 2026: What to Do If Your Application is Rejected

NSFAS provides essential financial support to many South African students pursuing education at public universities and TVET colleges. If your initial application for funding is unsuccessful, you have the right to appeal the decision.

This guide provides a complete step-by-step walkthrough of the NSFAS appeals process for the upcoming 2026 application cycle, including how to submit your appeal and the reasons NSFAS may accept one.

Are You Eligible to Appeal the NSFAS Decision?

You can only appeal an NSFAS application if your application status is Rejected or Unsuccessful. If your application status is still “pending” or “under review,” the appeals option will not be available yet.

The NSFAS appeals window opens shortly after application outcomes are released. You must act quickly, as this window is generally limited, often closing within 30 days.

Step-by-Step: How to Submit Your NSFAS Appeal

Follow these steps to successfully submit your appeal through the myNSFAS portal once the appeals window opens:

1. Log in to your myNSFAS Account: Go to the official myNSFAS portal and log in using your ID number and password.
2. Check Your Application Status: Navigate to the “Track Funding Status” option. If your status is “Unsuccessful” or “Rejected,” proceed to the next step.
3. Identify the Reason for Rejection: Click on the rejection status to see the specific reason(s) why NSFAS declined your application. Understanding this reason is crucial for preparing your appeal.
4. Click the Appeal Tab: A dedicated “Appeal” tab or button will appear next to the unsuccessful status during the official appeals period. Click this tab.
5. Submit the Required Documents: Depending on the reason for rejection, you must upload specific supporting documents (see list below) to prove your eligibility.
6. Write and Upload a Motivation Letter: Draft a clear, concise letter of appeal (also called a motivation letter) explaining why you believe the initial decision was incorrect. Your letter must directly address the rejection reason using factual evidence and strong arguments.
7. Submit the Appeal: Once you have uploaded the letter and all supporting documents, finalize the submission on the portal. You should receive a confirmation notification.

Common Reasons for NSFAS Rejection and Required Appeal Documents

Your appeal must directly address the reason NSFAS rejected your application. Gather and upload the documents that provide factual proof to overturn the initial decision.

Rejection Reason	Document Needed for Appeal
Family Income Exceeds Threshold	SASSA letter (if applicable), Proof of Income for all parents/guardians, or a completed NSFAS consent form for SARS checks.
No ID Document or Birth Certificate	Certified copy of your ID or a late birth certificate application proof from Home Affairs.
Non-South African Citizen	Certified ID copy that proves your South African citizenship status.
Registered for Fewer than 50% of Courses	Proof of registration or a letter from your TVET college/university confirming your course load.
Failure to Meet Academic Requirements (Returning Students)	Official academic transcript showing that you meet the N+ rule or 50% pass rate requirement.
Already Have Qualification (Bursary)	A signed declaration from the student confirming they do not hold a prior qualification.

Important Note: If your appeal is based on a change in your financial situation (e.g., loss of income by a parent), you must provide a Retrenchment Letter, Death Certificate, or a letter from a court-appointed authority for legal separation.

What Happens After You Appeal?

Once you submit your appeal, NSFAS sends it to the National Student Financial Aid Scheme Appeals Committee (AC). This committee reviews your appeal and all supporting documents.

The processing time varies depending on the number of appeals received. It may take several weeks to get a response. NSFAS will communicate the outcome directly to you through the myNSFAS portal and via SMS/email.

If your appeal is approved, your funding status will change, and your bursary will be confirmed. If the appeal is rejected, you will receive a final reason for the decision.

What to Do If the Appeal Tab is Not Showing

If you are trying to appeal but cannot see the dedicated appeal button, it is likely due to one of these two reasons:

• Appeals Window is Closed: The appeals period is strictly enforced. If the closing date has passed, the tab disappears, and you cannot submit an appeal for that cycle.
• Application is Not Rejected: The appeal tab only shows for applicants whose status is officially “Rejected” or “Unsuccessful.” If your status is still “pending,” you must wait for the final decision.

NSFAS Contact and Support

Always use official communication channels for accurate information regarding deadlines and application processes.

• Application Portal: my.nsfas.org.za
• Official Website: www.nsfas.org.za
• Email Support: [email protected]
• Phone Number: 0800 067 327
• Physical Address: 10 Brodie Road, Wynberg, Cape Town, 7700