The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) invites eligible South African students and prospective students to apply for NSFAS funding for the 2027 academic year.
NSFAS Application Closing Date: 31 October 2026 at 23:59
NSFAS Application Opening Date: 18 September 2026
Application Method: Online through myNSFAS
Application Fee: Free
NSFAS has officially confirmed that applications for 2027 funding are open and will close on 31 October 2026 at 23:59 South African time.
About NSFAS 2027 Applications
NSFAS provides financial assistance to qualifying students who want to study at participating public higher education institutions in South Africa.
Students can complete the entire 2027 application process online through their myNSFAS account.
Applicants can:
- Create or access their myNSFAS profile.
- Complete their personal information.
- Provide household information.
- Upload required supporting documents.
- Submit their funding application.
- Track their application status online.
NSFAS confirms that applying for funding is completely free.
Can Grade 12 Learners Apply for NSFAS 2027?
Yes.
Learners who are currently completing Grade 12 in 2026 can apply for NSFAS funding for the 2027 academic year.
You do not need to wait until you receive your final Matric results before submitting your application.
NSFAS also states that applicants can apply before they have received final acceptance from a university or college.
How to Apply for NSFAS 2027
The NSFAS application process can be completed online using a cellphone, tablet or computer.
Step 1: Create or Log in to Your myNSFAS Account
Visit the official myNSFAS platform.
You will need:
- South African ID number.
- Active cellphone number.
- Valid email address.
Your South African ID number is used when registering your profile.
Applicants who already have a myNSFAS account should log in instead of creating another account.
Step 2: Complete Your Personal Information
Complete the required personal details accurately.
Make sure that information such as your:
- Name and surname.
- ID number.
- Cellphone number.
- Email address.
- Household details.
is correct.
Step 3: Provide Household Information
Applicants must provide accurate information relating to their household circumstances and income.
NSFAS uses this information as part of the funding assessment process.
Step 4: Complete the NSFAS Consent Form
Applicants may be required to complete and submit the applicable NSFAS Consent Form.
The consent process allows NSFAS to verify information supplied in the funding application.
Applicants should ensure that the relevant people included in the application complete and sign documentation where required.
Step 5: Upload Supporting Documents
The documents required can differ depending on the applicant’s circumstances.
Applicants should check their myNSFAS account carefully because the system will indicate which supporting documents must be uploaded.
Examples of documents that may be requested include:
- NSFAS Consent Form.
- ID-related documents.
- Parent or guardian information where applicable.
- Disability Annexure A for applicants with disabilities.
- Vulnerable Child Declaration where applicable.
- NSFAS Declaration Form in specific circumstances.
Applicants who receive a SASSA grant may not be required to submit proof of household income.
Step 6: Review and Submit Your Application
Before submitting, check that:
- Your cellphone number is correct.
- Your email address is correct.
- Your household information is accurate.
- All requested documents have been uploaded.
- Documents are clear and readable.
- All required sections are completed.
Once satisfied, submit the application.
Applicants should keep their application or reference details for future use.
Can You Apply Using a Cellphone?
Yes.
NSFAS confirms that applications can be completed on a cellphone through the official NSFAS online platform or official app.
Applicants can also use their phones to:
- Upload documents.
- Check application status.
- Receive important notices.
- Access application support.
How Much Does It Cost to Apply?
There is no application fee.
NSFAS applications are free.
Applicants should not pay anyone to submit an NSFAS application or to speed up an application.
NSFAS also warns applicants never to share their password or OTP with another person.
Important NSFAS 2027 Dates
Applications Open: 18 September 2026
Applications Close: 31 October 2026
Closing Time: 23:59 South African time
NSFAS warns that late applications cannot be accepted, so students should avoid waiting until the final week to apply.
How to Apply
Applications must be completed through the official NSFAS platform.
Click here to apply for NSFAS Funding 2027
Applicants can access the myNSFAS application process from the official NSFAS website.
NSFAS Contact Details
Applicants who need assistance can contact NSFAS through its official support channels.
Toll-Free Number: 0800 067 327
NSFAS also provides online application guidance and support through its official website.
Avoid NSFAS Scams
Applicants should remember:
- NSFAS applications are free.
- Do not pay anyone to apply.
- Do not share your password.
- Do not share your OTP.
- Only use the official NSFAS website and application channels.
- Be careful of fake social media accounts and unofficial application links.
NSFAS 2027 Application Closing Date
Applications for the 2027 academic year close on:
31 October 2026 at 23:59 South African time
Students who have not yet applied are encouraged to submit their applications as soon as possible instead of waiting until the final day.