NSFAS Applications 2027 Now Open: Step-by-Step Guide on How to Apply
NSFAS, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme, is open for funding applications for the 2027 academic year. It is for South African students and people planning to study, and it can help pay for tuition, registration, approved accommodation or transport, and learning materials. Applications are free and close on 31 October 2026.
Applications for this intake are closed (closed 31 Oct 2026).
NSFAS usually opens again at about the same time each year. Its page lists every intake we have seen and when each one closed.
Listing last updated 21 Sept 2026. We recheck our listings every day.
NSFAS Applications 2027 Now Open: Step-by-Step Guide on How to Apply is a bursary offered by NSFAS (open nationally). Applications close on 31 Oct 2026.
Documents you will need
- NSFAS advises applicants to have clear copies of the required documents ready before beginning the application.
- For the 2027 application cycle, documents that may be required include the NSFAS Consent Form, Declaration Form for applicable applicants, disability-related documentation, and an Orphan and Vulnerable Child Declaration where applicable. The documents required depend on the applicant’s circumstances.
- NSFAS says photographs of documents taken using a cellphone can be uploaded as long as the entire document is visible and the text is readable.
- Upload every document requested on your myNSFAS application.
- The document is clear and readable.
- No corners or sections have been cut off.
- All required pages are included.
- Required signatures are included.
- Names and ID numbers match.
- You are using the correct 2027 forms where applicable.
- NSFAS lists blurry documents, missing signatures, incomplete pages and mismatching personal information among common reasons documents may need to be resubmitted.
How to apply
Applications are submitted directly to NSFAS - we do not collect applications. Read the eligibility criteria, prepare your supporting documents, then complete your application on the official page.
Go to the application pageFull details
NSFAS, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme, invites eligible South African students and future students to apply for funding for the 2027 academic year.
NSFAS applications for 2027 opened on 18 September 2026 and close on 31 October 2026. You can apply for free online through the official NSFAS website and the myNSFAS portal.
The application opened on 18 September 2026 and closes on 31 October 2026. The academic year is 2027. The application is free and is done online through myNSFAS.
How to apply for NSFAS funding for 2027
Applying for NSFAS funding is simple, but check that your personal information and supporting documents are correct before you submit.
Follow the step-by-step guide below.
Step 1: Go to the official NSFAS website
Open the official NSFAS website on your cellphone, tablet or computer.
Go to the NSFAS website.
Make sure you are on the official NSFAS website before you enter any personal information.
NSFAS warns you never to share your password or one-time PIN (OTP) with anyone, and never to pay anyone to submit an application. NSFAS applications are free.
Step 2: Create a myNSFAS account
New applicants must create a myNSFAS profile before they can apply.
You will usually need to give:
- Your South African ID number
- Your first names and surname, as they appear on your ID
- Your personal cellphone number
- Your email address
- A password
NSFAS checks ID numbers, names and surnames against Department of Home Affairs information.
If you already have a myNSFAS account, you do not need a new one. Just log in with your existing details.
Create or log in to your myNSFAS account.
Step 3: Log in and start your 2027 application
Once your myNSFAS account is created and activated:
- Log in to your myNSFAS account.
- Select the Apply option.
- Start your NSFAS 2027 funding application.
- Fill in every section of the online application form.
NSFAS needs your personal and household information, and you must complete the required consent process.
Step 4: Check your personal information
Before you go on, read through the information shown on your application.
Make sure that:
- Your name and surname are correct.
- Your ID number is correct.
- Your cellphone number is active.
- Your email address is correct.
- Your household and family information is accurate.
- Parent, guardian or spouse details are correct where they are needed.
Wrong information may slow down the processing of your application.
Use your own cellphone number and email address so that NSFAS can contact you directly.
Step 5: Complete your household information
Fill in all the household information that is asked for.
Depending on your situation, NSFAS may ask for information about:
- Your parent or parents
- Your legal guardian
- Your spouse
- Household income
- Employment circumstances
Your information must be accurate, because NSFAS may verify what you give during the application.
Step 6: Get your supporting documents ready
NSFAS advises you to have clear copies of the required documents ready before you start the application.
For the 2027 cycle, you may need the NSFAS Consent Form, the Declaration Form if it applies to you, disability-related documents, and an Orphan and Vulnerable Child Declaration if it applies. Which documents you need depends on your situation.
NSFAS says you can upload photos of documents taken with your cellphone, as long as the whole document is visible and the text can be read.
Step 7: Upload your supporting documents
Upload every document that is requested on your myNSFAS application.
Before you upload, check that:
- The document is clear and easy to read.
- No corners or sections are cut off.
- All the required pages are included.
- Required signatures are included.
- Names and ID numbers match.
- You are using the correct 2027 forms where they apply.
NSFAS lists blurry documents, missing signatures, incomplete pages and mismatched personal information as common reasons documents need to be sent again.
Step 8: Review your NSFAS application
Do not submit straight after you finish the form.
Read through the whole application first.
Check that:
- Your personal details are correct.
- Your household information is correct.
- Your cellphone number and email address are correct.
- All compulsory sections are complete.
- All the supporting documents you were asked for have been uploaded.
NSFAS specifically tells applicants to confirm that their information and documents are correct before they select Submit.
Step 9: Submit your NSFAS application
When you are sure everything is correct, submit your application.
Do not leave your application unfinished.
Applications must be submitted before the closing date of:
31 October 2026
NSFAS says applications cannot be submitted after the window closes, so do not wait until the last few days.
Step 10: Save your NSFAS reference number
After you submit your application, you should get an application reference number.
Keep this number somewhere safe.
You can:
- Take a screenshot.
- Write it down.
- Save it in your email or notes.
- Keep it with your application documents.
Your reference number helps when you follow up on your application.
Step 11: Track your NSFAS application status
Submitting your application is not the end of the process.
Log in to your myNSFAS account regularly to check your application status.
Track your application on myNSFAS.
NSFAS may ask for more information or documents while it processes your application.
What does NSFAS funding cover?
NSFAS funding follows the approved funding policy for the relevant academic year. The exact allowances depend on things like the institution, the qualification and your living arrangements.
Funding may include:
- Tuition and registration
- Approved accommodation or transport
- Learning materials
- Personal care allowances for qualifying students
Tuition and registration funding is usually paid directly to the university or TVET college.
Important NSFAS application tips
Apply as early as you can, rather than waiting until 31 October 2026.
Also remember that:
- Applying for NSFAS is completely free.
- Never give anyone your myNSFAS password.
- Never share an OTP sent to your cellphone.
- Use your own cellphone number and email address.
- Upload clear and complete documents.
- Check your application carefully before you submit.
- Save your application reference number.
- Check your myNSFAS account regularly for updates.
NSFAS warns that it will never ask you to share passwords or OTPs.
NSFAS 2027 important dates
The dates are published on the official NSFAS 2027 application information page.
How to apply for NSFAS 2027
Apply for NSFAS funding for 2027 through myNSFAS.
You can also visit:
The official NSFAS website.
NSFAS lists a toll-free number and an email address on its official website.
Frequently asked questions about NSFAS applications 2027
When did NSFAS applications for 2027 open?
NSFAS applications for the 2027 academic year opened on 18 September 2026.
When is the NSFAS 2027 closing date?
Applications close on 31 October 2026.
Does it cost money to apply for NSFAS?
No. NSFAS applications are free. Do not pay individuals or organisations who say they can submit or speed up your application.
Can I save my NSFAS application and finish it later?
Yes. NSFAS says you can save your application and come back to finish it before submitting, as long as you do this before the deadline.
How do I know if NSFAS needs more documents?
Log in to your myNSFAS account regularly. Your application status will show whether more or clearer documents are needed.
Can I track my NSFAS application online?
Yes. You can log in to myNSFAS at any time to check how your application is progressing.
Final reminder
NSFAS 2027 applications are open. This gives qualifying students a chance to apply for financial help with studies at South African public universities and TVET colleges.
Applications opened on 18 September 2026 and close on 31 October 2026. Apply early, give accurate information, upload the correct supporting documents, submit your application and keep your reference number safe.
Frequently asked questions
What is the NSFAS Applications 2027 Now Open: Step-by-Step Guide on How to Apply?
The NSFAS Applications 2027 Now Open: Step-by-Step Guide on How to Apply is a bursary offered by NSFAS for South African students and applicants interested in Accounting/Finance, IT/Computer Science, and Law. NSFAS, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme, is open for funding applications for the 2027 academic year. It is for South African students and people planning to study, and it can help pay for tuition, registration, approved accommodation or transport, and learning materials. Applications are free and close on 31 October 2026. You can read the full details, eligibility criteria, and application steps on this page before you apply.
Who qualifies for the NSFAS bursary?
We do not have the full eligibility list confirmed for the NSFAS bursary from our sources yet. As a guide, opportunities like this usually target South African applicants across South Africa studying or working in Accounting/Finance, IT/Computer Science, and Law. It is most relevant to applicants at TVET level. Always confirm the exact criteria on the official listing before applying, since requirements can change.
When does the NSFAS bursary close?
According to our sources, the NSFAS bursary closes on 31 October 2026. We last checked this listing on 11 November 2026. We always recommend verifying the closing date on the official listing, as providers sometimes extend or bring forward their deadlines.
What documents do I need to apply?
For the NSFAS bursary you will typically need to prepare NSFAS advises applicants to have clear copies of the required documents ready before beginning the application., For the 2027 application cycle, documents that may be required include the NSFAS Consent Form, Declaration Form for applicable applicants, disability-related documentation, and an Orphan and Vulnerable Child Declaration where applicable. The documents required depend on the applicant’s circumstances., NSFAS says photographs of documents taken using a cellphone can be uploaded as long as the entire document is visible and the text is readable., and Upload every document requested on your myNSFAS application.. Make sure any copies you submit are certified and clearly legible, as incomplete applications are often rejected. It also helps to scan everything in advance so you can upload or attach the documents quickly when you apply.
How do I apply for the NSFAS bursary?
Applying for NSFAS funding is straightforward, but applicants should make sure that their personal information and supporting documents are correct before submitting the application. Follow the step-by-step guide below. Click here to apply for NSFAS Funding 2027:Apply for NSFAS 2027 through myNSFAS Applicants can also visit: NSFAS Official Website NSFAS Toll-Free Number: 08000 67327Email: [email protected] You can start your application using the official link provided on this page. Apply early and keep a copy of any reference number or confirmation you receive, in case you need to follow up.
Sources
This page summarises information published by:
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