NSFAS Application Dates and How to Apply

Keagan HendricksWritten by Keagan HendricksStaff Writer (Unisa Alumnus)
Naledi KhumaloReviewed & verified by Naledi KhumaloSenior Admissions and Bursaries EditorVerified

If you’re a South African student facing financial challenges, NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme) can help you fund your college education.

This government program offers financial aid to students in need.

NSFAS Application Dates

NSFAS runs a main national cycle plus separate windows for TVET semester and trimester intakes. The main national cycle for 2027 opened on 18 September 2026 and closes on 31 October 2026. Watch nsfas.org.za and your college for the semester and trimester windows.

  • TVET Trimester 3 (2026): NSFAS brought this window forward to 14-23 August 2026, and withdrew the 3-14 September dates it had communicated earlier.
  • Main cycle: NSFAS closed the 2026 applications and released outcomes through myNSFAS from 15 December 2025.

How to Apply for NSFAS Online

  1. Sign Up: Visit www.nsfas.org.za and create an account on myNSFAS.
  2. Log In: Use your new account details to log in.
  3. Start Application: Click on the “Apply” button.
  4. Verify Details: Ensure your details are correct.
  5. Upload Documents: Scan and upload required documents like proof of income and ID.
  6. Fill Out Form: Complete the online application with your educational and financial information.
  7. Review and Submit: Check all details carefully and click “SUBMIT.”
  8. Confirmation: You’ll get a confirmation message once your application is successful.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for NSFAS, you must:

  • Be a legal resident of South Africa.
  • Demonstrate financial need based on an NSFAS means test.
  • Have a solid academic record.
  • Have completed high school or its equivalent.
  • Be in circumstances such as losing your parents or having unemployed parents.

Who is Not Eligible?

You cannot apply if:

  • You are currently enrolled in one course and have applied for another.
  • Your household income exceeds R350,000 per year.

Required Documents

Before applying, gather these documents:

  • South African ID number (yours and your parent’s/guardian’s/spouse’s).
  • Income proof where applicable.
  • For students with disabilities: Complete a Disability Annexure A Form.
  • For students with no family details: Completed Declaration Form.
  • Retrenchment letter, death certificates, divorce decree, proof of legal guardianship, marriage certificate.

Do I need to reapply every year?

Reapplication is optional each year. Once approved, your financial aid continues as long as you meet the program’s conditions.

How long does NSFAS take to verify documents?

Document verification may take up to six weeks.

Can international students apply?

No, only South African citizens are eligible for NSFAS funding.

How many years of funding can I receive?

If you meet the GPA requirements, NSFAS provides financing for up to five years.

What is the passing rate requirement?

First-time applicants need a 50% GPA. Current grantees must maintain a 55% GPA.

Is NSFAS a bursary or a loan?

NSFAS is a loan program. You must repay the funds once you earn at least R30,000 per year.

For details, check the NSFAS website, and make sure you meet the requirements before the cycle opens.

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