The NSFAS 2027 applications are now open, giving South African students an opportunity to apply for financial assistance for the 2027 academic year.
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) officially opened the 2027 application cycle on 18 September 2026. The application period is intended for eligible students planning to study at public universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges.
NSFAS 2027 Applications Are Open
NSFAS is a government-funded financial aid scheme that provides financial assistance to eligible students who cannot afford to fund their studies independently.
Funding is available for approved programmes at public universities and public TVET colleges. Depending on the student’s circumstances and applicable funding arrangements, NSFAS support can include tuition and registration fees as well as allowances related to accommodation, transport, living expenses and learning materials.
The 2027 application cycle is expected to assist students who are preparing to enter post-school education and training, as well as eligible applicants seeking financial support for their studies.
NSFAS 2027 Closing Date
Closing Date: 31 October 2026
Students are encouraged to submit their applications as early as possible and not wait until the final day.
Applicants should allow enough time to complete the application, provide accurate information and upload any supporting documents that may be requested.
Important: Applicants should regularly check their myNSFAS profiles for notifications, updates or requests for additional information.
Who Can Apply for NSFAS?
NSFAS funding is aimed at eligible students who meet the applicable citizenship, financial, academic and institutional requirements.
The financial eligibility thresholds traditionally used by NSFAS include:
- South African citizens and qualifying permanent residents.
- Applicants planning to study at a public university or TVET college.
- Applicants whose combined household income is within the applicable NSFAS threshold.
- Persons with disabilities who meet the applicable income threshold.
- SASSA grant beneficiaries who meet the relevant requirements.
NSFAS has historically used a R350,000 annual household income threshold for applicants without disabilities and R600,000 for applicants with disabilities. Applicants should check the latest NSFAS requirements during the 2027 application process because eligibility rules can change.
Meeting the household income requirement does not automatically guarantee funding. Applicants must still meet the other applicable NSFAS requirements and complete the verification and assessment process.
What Does NSFAS Funding Cover?
NSFAS financial support can assist eligible students with various costs associated with their studies.
Depending on the applicable funding rules and the student’s circumstances, support may include:
- Tuition fees
- Registration fees
- Accommodation
- Transport
- Learning materials
- Living expenses
- Personal care allowances
The exact allowances available can depend on the student’s institution, living arrangements and applicable NSFAS funding rules.
NSFAS Applications for University and TVET Students
Students who intend to study at a public university or TVET college should take note that admission and NSFAS funding are separate processes.
Applicants should apply for admission to their chosen institution and also submit their NSFAS funding application if they require financial assistance.
For the 2027 academic year, the Minister of Higher Education and Training has also encouraged prospective students to consider opportunities available through public TVET colleges.
How to Apply for NSFAS 2027
Students can submit their applications online through the official NSFAS platform.
Applicants should create or log into their myNSFAS account, complete the required personal and household information and provide any supporting documents requested by the system.
NSFAS has also been working on improvements to its application systems, including stronger data verification, automated document verification and improvements to the student-support environment for the 2027 cycle.
Applicants should make sure that all information supplied is correct. Incorrect or incomplete information can delay the assessment process or affect the outcome of an application.
NSFAS Appeals
Students whose applications are unsuccessful may have an opportunity to submit an appeal where the NSFAS rules allow it.
The appeal process can require supporting documentation depending on the reason for the unsuccessful outcome. Applicants should carefully read the information provided on their myNSFAS account and follow the instructions applicable to their specific case.
Students should also keep their contact information and supporting documentation up to date throughout the application and assessment process.
Final Thoughts
The NSFAS 2027 application period is an important opportunity for students who require financial assistance to pursue further education and training.
If you are planning to study at a public university or TVET college in 2027 and believe you may qualify, make sure you submit your NSFAS application before the 31 October 2026 closing date.
Do not wait until the last minute. Complete your application carefully, provide accurate information and regularly monitor your myNSFAS account for updates.
How to Apply
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NSFAS 2027 Applications: Open
Closing Date: 31 October 2026