NSFAS Bursary

Introduction

Education changes lives. In South Africa, thousands of students dream of furthering their studies but often face one big problem — lack of money. The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS)/ NSFAS Bursary is a government programme created to solve that problem. It gives full bursaries to students from low- and middle-income households who want to study at public universities or TVET colleges.

The NSFAS Bursary 2026 will open doors for many young people to reach their goals and improve their lives. If you are planning to apply, this guide will help you understand everything — from who qualifies to how to apply online, what documents you need, and how to make your application stand out.

What is the NSFAS Bursary?

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government-funded bursary program that pays for poor and working-class students’ higher education. It covers tuition fees, accommodation, learning materials, meals, and transport allowances. NSFAS does not need to be paid back — it is not a loan but a bursary that invests in your education.

In 2026, NSFAS aims to fund over a million students across public universities and TVET colleges in South Africa. The goal is to make sure that no qualified student is left behind because of financial barriers.

Why the NSFAS Bursary Matters

Education is one of the strongest tools to reduce poverty and create opportunity. The NSFAS Bursary ensures that financial background does not stop you from achieving your dreams.
Here’s why it matters:

It supports students from poor and working-class families.
It helps reduce student debt and drop-out rates.
Allows students to focus on studies instead of financial stress.
It covers full study-related costs, including meals and accommodation.
It opens pathways for future employment and economic growth.

Who Qualifies for the NSFAS Bursary 2026?

To qualify for the NSFAS Bursary 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Citizenship: You must be a South African citizen.
Household income: Combined annual household income must be R350,000 or less.
Disability applicants: If you are a student with a disability, your household income must not be more than R600,000 per year.
Study status: You must plan to study or already be studying at a public university or TVET college in South Africa.
Academic results: You must meet the academic entry requirements for your chosen course or institution.
Registration: You must apply online before the official closing date.

What Does the NSFAS Bursary Cover?

The NSFAS bursary covers nearly all your study and living costs. It is a full-cost bursary, meaning you do not have to pay any tuition or accommodation fees once approved.

Here’s what it covers:

For University Students:

Tuition fees: Fully covered.
Accommodation: Fully covered (up to a certain amount).
Meals: Annual meal allowance.
Books and learning materials: Covered through an annual allowance.
Transport: A travel allowance for students living far from campus.
Personal care allowance: Helps cover day-to-day student needs.

For TVET College Students:

Tuition fees: Fully covered.
Accommodation or transport: Based on distance from campus.
Books and materials: Covered.
Living allowance: Monthly stipend for daily expenses.

How to Apply for NSFAS Bursary 2026: Step-by-Step Guide

Applying for the NSFAS bursary is completely free and done online. Follow these steps carefully to make sure your application is complete and error-free.

Step 1: Visit the NSFAS Website

Go to the official NSFAS website: www.nsfas.org.za.
Click on the “myNSFAS” tab to register or log in.

Step 2: Create a myNSFAS Account

If you are applying for the first time, click on “Create Account.”
You’ll need:

Your South African ID number.
A valid cellphone number and email address.
A strong password you can remember.

You will receive an OTP (one-time password) via SMS or email to confirm your account.

Step 3: Log In to Your Account

Use your ID number and password to log in. Make sure your personal details are correct — NSFAS uses this information to contact you and verify your application.

Step 4: Start the Application

Click “Apply” and fill in all required details. Be honest and accurate, especially about your family income and personal information.

Step 5: Upload Supporting Documents

You must upload clear and certified copies of the required documents (see list below). Blurry or incomplete documents can cause delays or rejections.

Step 6: Submit Your Application

Double-check everything before submitting. Once you submit, you will receive a reference number — keep it safe as proof that you applied.

NSFAS Bursary

Documents Required for NSFAS Application 2026

To complete your application, prepare the following certified documents:

Copy of your South African ID or birth certificate.
IDs of parents, guardian, or spouse (if applicable).
Proof of income (salary slips, SASSA letter, or affidavit).
Academic results (latest school or tertiary report).
Proof of registration or acceptance at a public university or TVET college.
For disabled students: medical assessment form.
For orphans: a death certificate or affidavit confirming guardianship.

Make sure all documents are certified and not older than three months.

Application Period and Deadline

The NSFAS Bursary 2026 application season will open on 1 September 2025 and close on 31 January 2026 (dates subject to confirmation).
Late applications are not accepted, so it’s important to apply early. Early applications also give you more time to fix errors or upload missing documents before the deadline.

Tips for a Successful NSFAS Application

Apply early. Don’t wait for the last week; servers may be busy.
Use accurate information. NSFAS verifies your details with Home Affairs and SASSA.
Upload clear documents. Blurry or incomplete uploads cause rejections.
Check your status regularly. Log in to your myNSFAS account to see updates.
Keep your contact details updated. NSFAS communicates through SMS and email.
Ask for help if needed. Visit your college financial aid office or a local NSFAS partner centre for assistance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Submitting wrong or missing documents.
Using someone else’s email or phone number.
Applying after the closing date.
Entering the wrong ID number or name.
Forgetting to check your application status.

What Happens After You Apply?

After submitting your application:

NSFAS will send a confirmation SMS or email.
Your details will be verified with government databases.
If successful, you will receive a funding confirmation message.
Once you register at your institution, NSFAS will pay your allowances directly through their system.

If your application is unsuccessful, you can appeal by submitting the correct supporting documents through your myNSFAS portal.

NSFAS Contact Information

For help or updates:

Website: www.nsfas.org.za
Email: info@nsfas.org.za
Toll-Free Number: 08000 67327
Twitter: @myNSFAS
Facebook: National Student Financial Aid Scheme

How NSFAS Transforms Student Lives

Many South Africans who once struggled financially have become successful graduates through NSFAS support. The bursary allows students to study without worrying about food, rent, or books. It promotes equality, creates opportunities, and builds stronger communities.

In 2026, NSFAS aims to reach even more learners through improved digital systems, faster approvals, and better communication. This means applying has never been easier.

Final Thoughts: Your Future Starts with Action

The NSFAS Bursary 2026 is your chance to study without financial stress. Every successful graduate begins with one step — applying. If you meet the requirements, gather your documents, and apply as early as possible.

Education is your key to a brighter future, and NSFAS is ready to help you unlock it.

Don’t wait for tomorrow. Apply for the NSFAS Bursary 2026 today and give yourself the opportunity to succeed in university or college — without worrying about money.

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