How to track your NSFAS application status: A Complete Guide

For thousands of South African students, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) funding is the only way for them to achieve their dreams of higher education.

But after submitting your application, the waiting period can feel like an eternity. Wondering if your application sailed through or not?

This article will guide you through the process of tracking your NSFAS application status with ease.

What is my NSFAS status?

Your NSFAS status is basically a snapshot of where your application stands in the verification process.

It tells you if your application is being reviewed, if any documents are missing, or if you’ve been deemed eligible for funding.

Knowing your status can help you manage your expectations, anticipate deadlines, and potentially avoid any roadblocks.

How do I track my NSFAS status?

There are two main ways to track your NSFAS application status:

1. MyNSFAS Portal: This is your go-to source for all things NSFAS. Simply log in to your account using your ID number and password, and head over to the “Track Funding Progress” section.

Here, you’ll find a detailed breakdown of your application’s journey, including the current stage, any outstanding documents, and any messages from NSFAS.

2. NSFAS Call Centre: If you’re a non-digital native or prefer the human touch, you can always call the NSFAS Call Centre at 0800 676 273.

Be prepared to answer some security questions and have your ID number handy.

A little pro tip is that you can bookmark the “Track Funding Progress” page and check it regularly for updates.

You can also set up email notifications to be alerted whenever your application status changes.

How long does it take to apply for NSFAS?

The application process itself can take anywhere from a few hours to a few days, depending on your internet speed and how organized you are with your documents.

The earlier you apply, the sooner your application will be processed.

How long does NSFAS take to verify details?

Verification is where things can get a bit unpredictable.

NSFAS needs to verify your income, academic record, and other details with various government agencies and institutions.

It can take 6 weeks or more, depending on the complexity of your application and the current workload.