Hey future graduates and changemakers! Ready to kickstart your academic journey without the stress of finances? Well, get excited because we’re diving into the National Student Financial Aid Scheme, better known as NSFAS! If you’re looking for support to fund your studies in 2026, this is THE bursary you absolutely need to know about.
NSFAS is a massive game-changer for countless South African students. It’s essentially the government’s way of ensuring that talented and deserving students, like you, don’t miss out on higher education just because of financial limitations. Think of it as your golden ticket to university or TVET college!
Who Can Apply?
Wondering if NSFAS is for you? Here’s a quick rundown of who typically qualifies for this incredible financial boost:
- You must be a South African citizen.
- You need to be registered or planning to register for a qualification at a public university or TVET college in South Africa.
- Your household’s total income should fall within the NSFAS threshold (currently R350,000 per year for most students, and R600,000 for students with disabilities).
- First-time university entrants must meet academic requirements.
- Returning students must show satisfactory academic progression.
What Does It Cover?
NSFAS isn’t just about tuition fees – it’s a comprehensive bursary designed to support you throughout your studies! This means it generally covers:
- Tuition Fees: The full cost of your university or TVET college courses.
- Accommodation: Whether you’re staying in campus residences or accredited off-campus accommodation.
- Living Allowance: Funds for your daily essentials like food and personal care.
- Learning Materials Allowance: To help you buy textbooks, stationery, or even data for online learning.
- Transport Allowance: For students who commute and qualify based on specific criteria.
How to Apply?
Ready to get your application in? The process is straightforward, but make sure you have everything ready! Applications for the 2026 academic year are now open, and the **closing date is 15 November 2025**.
Here’s what you need to do:
- Head to the myNSFAS portal: This is where all the magic happens! Click HERE to go directly to the application site.
- Create an account or log in: If you’re new, you’ll need to register. If you’ve applied before, just log in with your existing details.
- Complete the application form: Fill in all your personal and academic details accurately.
- Upload Supporting Documents: This is super important! The system will tell you exactly which documents are needed based on your application type. Make sure they are clear and correctly uploaded. Here are some common documents you might need:
- Disability Annexure Form: If you have a disability, this form (merged with a medical report) is essential.
- NSFAS Consent Form: This allows NSFAS to verify your information with third-party data sources. Download it, sign it, and upload it.
- NSFAS Orphan or Vulnerable Child Declaration Form: If you are under 18 and an orphan or vulnerable child, this form is required.
- Other Documents: Depending on your circumstances, you might need a retrenchment letter, death certificates (for deceased parents/guardians), a divorce decree, proof of legal guardianship, or a marriage certificate.
- Submit your application: Double-check everything before hitting that submit button!
If this sounds like the right bursary for you, don’t wait — apply now and secure your future! Explore more incredible funding opportunities right here on Bursaries Room!
