NSFAS opens 2027 application cycle for public university and TVET college students
Qualifying South African students can now apply online for tertiary study funding ahead of the November closing date.
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) opened applications for the 2027 academic year on September 18.
Eligible students can apply for financial support to study at public universities and TVET colleges., with the application window expected to close on November 18. Applicants are urged to submit their forms early to allow time to correct errors or supply missing documentation.
Funding is available primarily to South African citizens and permanent residents studying, or intending to study, at a public university or TVET college. Applicants who do not receive South African Social Security Agency (Sassa) grants generally require a combined gross household income of R350 000 or less a year.
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For applicants living with disabilities, the threshold increases to R600 000, subject to NSFAS rules.
Students receiving qualifying Sassa grants generally satisfy the financial criteria, though additional conditions may apply. A loan option is available for select students above the bursary threshold who fall into the missing-middle category.
Meeting the income limit does not guarantee funding, as academic and other eligibility criteria also apply. Applying to NSFAS does not constitute acceptance by a tertiary institution, nor does institutional acceptance guarantee NSFAS funding. Prospective students must apply separately to their chosen college or university and to NSFAS, without waiting for a final academic acceptance before submitting their funding request.
Applications are free and must be completed on the myNSFAS portal using a cell phone, tablet, or computer. Applicants create an account using their South African ID number, cell phone number, and email address, before entering household details, completing consent sections, uploading documents, and saving their reference number.
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Required documentation varies by applicant. NSFAS may request a consent form, parent or guardian details, proof of income, disability documentation, or vulnerability status papers. All submitted documents must be clear, complete, and match the applicant’s details.
Financial support may cover tuition, registration, accommodation, transport, learning materials, books, and personal-care allowances, depending on the institution, qualification, and 2027 funding rules.
After submitting, applicants should log in to the portal regularly, as application statuses update during verification. Any additional requested documents must be uploaded promptly, and contact details must remain active.
NSFAS warned that the application process is completely free and no third party can guarantee approval. Applicants must not pay anyone to apply on their behalf, nor share passwords, banking details, or one-time pins.
Official support is available on 08000 67327, via email at info@nsfas.org.za, or through the myNSFAS portal.
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