NSFAS 2027 Application: Dates, Eligibility & How to Apply in South Africa

NSFAS applications for the 2027 academic year opened on 18 September 2026. This guide explains the dates, who qualifies, the steps to apply through the myNSFAS portal, how to avoid scams, and what to do if you do not qualify. Dates and thresholds can change, so confirm every detail on the official NSFAS website before you apply.

NSFAS 2027 Key Dates

Several third-party guides list 31 October 2026 as the closing date, while SAnews reports 18 November 2026. Because the sources disagree, treat the earlier date as your safe deadline, apply as early as you can, and check the official NSFAS website for the confirmed date. NSFAS does not accept applications after the window closes, and the Minister has encouraged students not to wait until the last days.

Who Qualifies for NSFAS?

NSFAS funds South African citizens and permanent residents who plan to study at a public university or public TVET college. The published bursary criteria are a combined household income of R350,000 or less per year, and being a first-time student working toward a first undergraduate qualification, without full funding from another source. Applicants whose household income falls above that threshold may be considered for the NSFAS student loan, which is aimed at the so-called missing middle. These thresholds are as widely reported and can change, so confirm them on the official website.

How to Apply for NSFAS Step by Step

1. Go to the official website. Use www.nsfas.org.za and the myNSFAS button. Do not use links sent through social media or messaging apps.
2. Create a myNSFAS account. You will need your ID number, names, a cell phone number and an email address.
3. Log in and start a new application. Choose the option to apply for funding.
4. Complete your personal and household information. Check every detail against your ID and supporting documents.
5. Upload your documents. Depending on your situation this can include ID documents, proof of household income and signed consent forms. Make sure scans are clear and complete.
6. Review and submit before the deadline. Save your reference number.
7. Track your application. Log back into myNSFAS to see your status and respond to any request for outstanding documents.

You also apply separately to the university or TVET college you want to attend, since NSFAS funding does not replace an admission application.

NSFAS Scam Warnings

• Applying for NSFAS is free. Never pay anyone to apply, to speed up your application, or to guarantee funding.
• Only apply on the official NSFAS website and portal.
• Do not share your myNSFAS password or one-time PINs with anyone.
• Be sceptical of social media posts that promise guaranteed funding or ask for personal details.

Our guide on remote job scams and how to spot them explains the same warning signs, which apply to funding offers as well.

What If You Do Not Qualify or Are Not Funded?

Many students miss out on NSFAS or need to cover costs it does not. Options include applying for bursaries offered by employers, provincial departments and private organisations, funding a course you can start sooner, and building skills while you wait. Compare the cost of a degree against alternatives in our breakdown of the real cost of a degree vs online courses.

Online learning can fill gaps between school and study, or add to a qualification once you are in. Coursera and Udemy both run low-cost courses, and our guide to free Coursera courses with certificates shows what you can start for free. For the bigger picture, see youth unemployment in South Africa and what actually helps, and check whether Udemy certificates are accredited before relying on them for a formal requirement.

Further reading: NSFAS — Official Website · SAnews — NSFAS 2027 Application Cycle Opens · Department of Higher Education and Training