The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) invites eligible South African students and prospective students to apply for funding for the 2027 academic year.
NSFAS applications for 2027 officially opened on 18 September 2026 and will close on 31 October 2026. Applications are free, and students can apply online through the official NSFAS website and myNSFAS portal.
NSFAS Application Opening Date: 18 September 2026
NSFAS Application Closing Date: 31 October 2026
Academic Year: 2027
Application Fee: Free
Application Method: Online through myNSFAS
How to Apply for NSFAS Funding for 2027
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.
Step 1: Visit the Official NSFAS Website
Go to the official NSFAS website using your cellphone, tablet or computer.
Applicants should make sure they are using the official NSFAS website before entering personal information.
NSFAS warns applicants never to share their 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 generally need to provide your:
- South African ID number
- First names and surname as they appear on your ID
- Personal cellphone number
- Email address
- Password
NSFAS states that applicants’ ID numbers, names and surnames are validated against Department of Home Affairs information. (NSFAS)
If you already have a myNSFAS account, you do not need to create another one. Simply log in using your existing details.
Create or log in to your myNSFAS account
Step 3: Log In and Start Your 2027 Application
Once your myNSFAS account has been created and activated:
- Log in to your myNSFAS account.
- Select the Apply option.
- Start your NSFAS 2027 funding application.
- Complete all sections of the online application form.
NSFAS requires applicants to provide their personal and household information and complete the required consent process.
Step 4: Check Your Personal Information
Before proceeding, carefully check the information displayed on your application.
Make sure your:
- Name and surname are correct.
- ID number is correct.
- Cellphone number is active.
- Email address is correct.
- Household and family information is accurate.
- Parent, guardian or spouse details are correct where required.
Incorrect information may affect the processing of your application.
Applicants should use their own cellphone number and email address so that NSFAS can communicate directly with them.
Step 5: Complete Your Household Information
Complete all requested information regarding your household.
Depending on your circumstances, NSFAS may require information relating to your:
- Parent or parents
- Legal guardian
- Spouse
- Household income
- Employment circumstances
Applicants must provide accurate information because NSFAS may verify information supplied during the application process.
Step 6: Prepare Your Supporting Documents
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.
Step 7: Upload Your Supporting Documents
Upload every document requested on your myNSFAS application.
Before uploading, check that:
- 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.
Step 8: Review Your NSFAS Application
Do not submit immediately after completing the form.
Review the entire 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 completed.
- All requested supporting documents have been uploaded.
NSFAS specifically advises applicants to confirm that their information and required documents are correct before selecting Submit.
Step 9: Submit Your NSFAS Application
Once you are satisfied that everything is correct, submit your application.
Do not leave your application incomplete.
Applications must be submitted before the closing date of:
31 October 2026
NSFAS states that applications cannot be submitted after the application window closes, so applicants are encouraged not to wait until the final days.
Step 10: Save Your NSFAS Reference Number
After successfully submitting your application, you should receive an application reference number.
Save 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 can be useful when following up on your application.
Step 11: Track Your NSFAS Application Status
Submitting your application is not the end of the process.
Applicants should regularly log in to their myNSFAS accounts to monitor their application status.
Track your NSFAS application on myNSFAS
NSFAS may request additional information or supporting documents while processing your application.
What Does NSFAS Funding Cover?
According to NSFAS, funding is provided in accordance with the approved funding policy for the relevant academic year. The exact allowances depend on factors including the institution, qualification and 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 generally paid directly to the relevant university or TVET college. (NSFAS)
Important NSFAS Application Tips
Applicants should apply as early as possible 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 submitting.
- Save your application reference number.
- Regularly check your myNSFAS account for updates.
NSFAS warns that it will never ask applicants to share passwords or OTPs.
NSFAS 2027 Important Dates
| Activity | Date |
|---|---|
| NSFAS 2027 Applications Open | 18 September 2026 |
| Application Period | September–October 2026 |
| NSFAS 2027 Applications Close | 31 October 2026 |
| Application Fee | Free |
The dates are published on the official NSFAS 2027 application information page.
How to Apply for NSFAS 2027
Click here to apply for NSFAS Funding 2027:
Apply for NSFAS 2027 through myNSFAS
Applicants can also visit:
NSFAS Toll-Free Number: 08000 67327
Email: info@nsfas.org.za
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. Applicants should not pay individuals or organisations claiming they can submit or speed up an application. (NSFAS)
Can I save my NSFAS application and finish it later?
Yes. NSFAS indicates that applicants can save their application and return to complete it before submitting, provided this is done before the application deadline. (NSFAS)
How do I know whether NSFAS needs additional documents?
Log in regularly to your myNSFAS account. Your application status will indicate whether additional or clearer documents are required. (NSFAS)
Can I track my NSFAS application online?
Yes. Applicants can log in to myNSFAS at any time to check the progress of their application.
Final Reminder
NSFAS 2027 applications are now open, giving qualifying students an opportunity to apply for financial assistance towards studies at South African public universities and TVET colleges.
Applications opened on 18 September 2026 and close on 31 October 2026. Applicants should apply early, provide accurate information, upload the correct supporting documents, submit the application and keep their reference number safe.