NSFAS Funding 2027 Summary
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) provides government-funded financial assistance to eligible South African students studying at public universities and TVET colleges.
What NSFAS Covers
- Registration fees
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Learning materials and books
- Transport allowance (where applicable)
- Living allowance
- Personal care allowance (where applicable)
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be a South African citizen or permanent resident
- Be accepted or registered at a public university or TVET college
- Come from a household with a combined annual income of R350,000 or less
- Students with disabilities may qualify with a household income of up to R600,000 per year
- Meet the academic requirements set by NSFAS and their institution
Who Automatically Qualifies Financially
- SASSA grant recipients
Who Does Not Qualify
- Students with a household income above the NSFAS threshold
- Students studying at private institutions
- Students who have already completed an undergraduate qualification (subject to NSFAS rules)
- Students who do not meet academic progression requirements
Required Documents
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified copies of parent(s) or guardian(s) IDs
- Proof of household income
- NSFAS Consent Form
- Academic records or results where applicable
- Disability Annexure Form (for students with disabilities)
How to Apply
- Create a myNSFAS account.
- Complete the online application form.
- Upload all required supporting documents.
- Review the information provided.
- Submit your application before the closing date.
- Track your application status through your myNSFAS account.
Closing Date
31 October 2026
Ideal Candidates
This funding is best suited for:
- Students from low-income and working-class households
- First-time university and TVET college students
- Returning students who meet academic progression requirements
- Students needing comprehensive study funding
Funding Value: Covers approved study costs including tuition, accommodation, learning materials, transport, and living allowances, depending on the student's circumstances and institution.
