Applications for NSFAS Bursary Funding 2027 opened on 18 September 2026. Eligible students planning approved studies at public universities and TVET colleges can apply online. The closing date announced at the ministerial launch is 18 November 2026.
At a glance
Sponsor: National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS)
Study year: 2027
Level: Approved undergraduate university and TVET qualifications
Location: South Africa, all provinces
Application: Online through myNSFAS
Closing date: 18 November 2026, as announced at the launch
Last verified: 19 September 2026
High-value notes (read this first)
Applying is free. A bursary and a loan have different terms: loans are repayable. Confirm the funding type offered before accepting. An application does not secure a university or college place. Apply separately to your chosen institution and check its own admission deadline.
About the sponsor
NSFAS administers government financial assistance for eligible students at public universities and TVET colleges. Visit the official NSFAS website for scheme information and notices.
What the bursary covers
- Approved registration and tuition fees.
- Learning materials and applicable living, personal-care and transport allowances.
- Accommodation where approved.
- Additional disability-related support may be assessed separately.
Support depends on the applicable funding policy, institution and individual circumstances. Use your award terms to confirm the approved expenses. Historical allowance figures should not be treated as confirmed 2027 amounts.
Fields of study
The scheme supports approved qualifications at eligible public institutions. Check your exact programme with NSFAS and your institution before relying on funding.
Eligibility requirements
- South African citizens and permanent residents may apply.
- For non-SASSA bursary applicants, gross combined household income must not exceed R350,000 annually.
- For applicants with disabilities, the published threshold is R600,000 annually.
- Verified SASSA recipients meet the financial requirement. Other eligibility and verification conditions still apply.
Documents to prepare
Follow the checklist generated for your circumstances. NSFAS requires a completed, signed consent form. A Declaration Form, Disability Assessment Questionnaire or Orphan and Vulnerable Child Form may also apply. Have clear copies ready and ensure required signatures are present.
Key dates
- Applications opened: 18 September 2026.
- Closing date announced by the minister: 18 November 2026.
- Successful applicants are expected to receive funding outcomes in December 2026.
Selection and continued funding
Financial eligibility alone does not guarantee an award. NSFAS verifies applications and applies its funding requirements. Continuing students should check the applicable academic progression and continued-funding rules before deciding whether they need to reapply.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Leaving the institution admission application until after applying for funding.
- Uploading unreadable pages or incomplete forms.
- Assuming a saved application has been submitted.
- Sharing your password or one-time PIN, or paying someone who claims an application fee is required.
- Treating a demonstration tracker on an information page as your actual funding status.
Closing date
18 November 2026, according to the official 18 September launch announcement. Because the application guide still shows 31 October, submit early and check myNSFAS for current notices.
Official information and enquiries
Read the NSFAS funding FAQs and official application guide. Enquiries: info@nsfas.org.za or 08000 67327.
How to apply
- Open the official myNSFAS portal using the button below.
- Create your profile or sign in to your existing account.
- Select APPLY and complete the personal and household information requested.
- Provide consent and upload the required supporting documents.
- Check every section, submit, and save your reference number.
After you submit
Sign in to myNSFAS to follow your actual application status and respond to document requests. Keep your contact details current. Retain your submission reference and copies of the documents you supplied.