2025/2026 Nsfas Applications How to Apply

The 2025/2026 NSFAS applications  are officially open! If you are looking to study at a South African University or TVET College in 2025/2026 and require financial assistance, then this could definitely be an option for you. 

NSFAS funding comes in the form of a bursary and is only payable once you have a secured job after you finish your studies. It will cover the entire duration of your studies as long as pass the modules and complete the academic requirements.

Application Dates

  • Opening date: 1st August 2025/2026
  • Closing date: 30th November 2025/2026

Requirements to apply

  • A South African citizen with a valid South Africa ID (unfortunately no foreign students may apply)
  • Your combined household income must not exceed R350 000 per annum
  • If you are disabled, then your household income must not exceed R600 000 per annum
  • You need to have passed grade 12 at a secondary institution for both university and Tvet funding

What will the funding cover

  • Registeration fees
  • Tuition fees
  • Allowance for food
  • Allowance for personal care
  • Learning materials
  • Accommodation (if necessary)
  • Travel (if necessary)

What you will need to submit your application

  • Copy of your ID or birth certificate
  • ID copies of parents, guardian or spouse
  • Your proof of income or 1 year’s IRP5 or your parents, guardian or spouse’s proof of income. (NOTE: If you are a SASSA grant recipient, no proof of income will be required)
  • If you are disabled you must submit a completed and signed Disability Annexure A Form
  • If you are recognised as a Vulnerable Child by the Department of Social Development must provide a completed and signed Vulnerable Child Declaration Form

Other required documents if applicable:

  • Retrenchment letter
  • Death certificate/s
  • Divorce decree

* Due to the current COVID-19 restrictions, none of the documents are to required to be certified.

How do I apply

  • Follow this link here
  • Click on register
  • Tick the acceptance option to verify and validate the information you provide
  • Type in your ID number as per your ID document
  • Type in your name and surname as per your ID Document
  • Type in your email address and cellphone number (Please note that your email will become your username)
  • Create a password and confirm your password
  • Upload a copy of your ID
  • Click on the register button
  • A One Time Pin (OTP) will be sent to the email address and cellphone number you provided
  • Type in the OTP in the tab provided and click submit
  • You will then receive another SMS and email confirming that your myNSFAS account has been created
  • You must now proceed with fill out your application and providing the necessary supporting documentation

If you still have further questions, please visit the NSFAS FAQ for more information here.


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Did you know : International Scholarships 2024

There are several international scholarships available for South Africans to study abroad. Here are a few examples:

  1. Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Program: This program provides fully funded scholarships to study at selected universities in Africa, Europe, and North America. It is open to African students, including South Africans, who are committed to giving back to their communities.
  2. Commonwealth Scholarships: The Commonwealth Scholarship Commission offers scholarships for postgraduate study in the UK for citizens of Commonwealth countries, including South Africa. The scholarships cover tuition fees, travel costs, and a living allowance.
  3. Fulbright Foreign Student Program: The Fulbright program offers scholarships for South Africans to study at U.S. universities for a Master’s or PhD degree. The scholarship covers tuition, travel, living expenses, and health insurance.
  4. Erasmus+ Programme: The Erasmus+ programme offers scholarships for South Africans to study in Europe for a Master’s or PhD degree. The scholarship covers tuition fees, travel, and living expenses.
  5. Australia Awards Scholarships: The Australian government offers scholarships for South Africans to study at Australian universities. The scholarship covers tuition fees, travel costs, and a living allowance.

These are just a few examples of the many international scholarships available to South Africans. It is important to research the eligibility requirements and application deadlines for each scholarship program.