The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) requires all applicants to submit the correct and valid supporting documents for their 2026 funding applications. Failure to provide these documents will result in your application not being processed.
To ensure a smooth application process, make sure you complete all sections of the NSFAS application form and attach the required documents. Remember: you must write your ID number on every page of all supporting documents.
Why Supporting Documents Are Important
Supporting documents help NSFAS verify your personal details, household income, and academic information. Without them, NSFAS cannot determine whether you qualify for financial assistance.
Where to Certify Your Documents
- Certified copies must not be older than three months.
- You can certify your documents at:
- South African Police Service (SAPS) stations
- South African Post Office branches
Compulsory NSFAS Supporting Documents
Here’s the full checklist of documents you need to attach to your NSFAS application:
Personal Documents
- Certified copy of your Identity Document (ID).
- If under 16 years old and you don’t have an ID, submit a certified copy of your unabridged birth certificate.
- Certified copy of the ID document of each household member, including parents or legal guardian.
Academic Documents
- Certified copy of your latest academic transcript or exam results.
- If you are currently in Grade 12, you do not need to submit this.
- If you were exempted from paying school fees, submit a letter from your school confirming the exemption.
Income Documents
- Certified or official copy of a recent payslip, employment letter, or proof of income (not older than 3 months) for:
- Parents
- Guardians
- Yourself (if employed)
- If a parent or guardian is retired, submit:
- Pension slip or
- Bank statement showing pension payment.
- If a parent/guardian works as an informal trader, submit an affidavit confirming employment.
- If household members receive SASSA grants, UIF, or other benefits, provide proof such as:
- SASSA letter
- Bank statements
- Official documentation
Family Circumstances Documents
- If either parent is deceased, submit a certified death certificate.
- If parents are divorced, submit a certified divorce decree.
- If a parent does not live at home, provide an affidavit explaining why.
- If you are supported by someone other than your parents or legal guardian, provide an affidavit explaining the reasons.
Student Dependents in Household
- Proof of registration or acceptance at a TVET college or university for each dependent who is a student.
Disability Documents
- If you have a disability, complete and submit the Disability Annexure A form and any other required supporting documents.
Important Reminders
- Write your ID number on every page of all documents.
- Ensure all documents are certified within the last three months.
- Submit all documents before the NSFAS closing date for 2026 applications.
Final Thoughts
Submitting the correct NSFAS supporting documents is crucial for your 2026 funding application. Missing or invalid documents may delay your application or result in rejection. Prepare your certified copies early and keep them safe to avoid last-minute challenges.