NSFAS Applications Online 2025-2026: A Comprehensive Guide
NSFAS Application 2025, National Student Financial Aid Scheme NSFAS Online Application 2025-2026 Academic Intake will open on 1 September 2025 and close on 31 January 2026. The NSFAS Funding 2025 is now open for applications. Prospective students are encouraged to apply before the closing date or deadline.
NSFAS Online Application 2025-2026 are open
Please visit the NSFAS online application portal 2026 at www.nsfas.org.za and submit your online application form. If you want to avoid embarrassment in 2025, you should apply by the deadline so you don’t get caught late. Do you have the desire to pursue higher education in South Africa, but are concerned about the financial challenges involved?

Look no further! NSFAS is your gateway to achieving your academic goals. NSFAS funding is highly competitive due to the limited funds available. The following tips and tricks will ensure you have the best chance of obtaining NSFAS funding for the upcoming 2025-2026 academic year.
NSFAS Applications 2025 -2026 Opening and Closing dates
NSFAS Application | Details |
Scheme Complete Name | National Student Financial Aid Scheme |
NSFAS Application 2025 Opening Date | 1 September 2025 |
NSFAS Application 2025 Closing Date | 31 January 2026 |
mynsfas Online Portal | www.nsfas.org.za |
NSFAS online application for 2025
Applications for NSFAS for the 2025-2026 academic year can be made via the online application portal 2025-2026.
NSFAS Application Status Check Online 2025
You can successfully check your NSFAS status using the below approach.
An Additional Nine NSFAS Statuses may be Displayed when you select the “Track Funding Progress” tab.
NSFAS Status Check Using ID Number
Applicants who received NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme) funding must track their application progress. When you log into your online account, you can view the status of your NSFAS application using your ID number. You can track the status of an application if you have already created one by signing into your MyNSFAS account.
Here are the steps
The student portal allows students to log in with their email addresses instead of their ID numbers.
NSFAS Status Check Using Reference Number
Perform an NSFAS Status Check using your reference number by following these steps:
NSFAS Application Status Check Online 2025 Video Guide
NSFAS Application Status and Meaning
While tracking your NSFAS application status, you may come across one of the following statuses. Below is a description of each:
Application Submitted
Filtering
Evaluation
Funding Eligibility
Awaiting Result
Validation
NSFAS Application Status Meaning After confirming your NSFAS application
After confirming your NSFAS application, look for the following NSFAS Application Status We also explain their Meaning

Pending
Provisionally Approved
Approved
Rejected
Awaiting Registration
Signing of the Agreement
Payment
Eligibility Criteria for NSFAS Financial Aid
If you comply with the requirements of NSFAS, they will respond. In the above definition, the conditions are pretty much outlined. Show that you have done so.
To be eligible for NSFAS funding, you must meet the following requirements:
Note
To apply for NSFAS 2025, you must complete and submit your application online. Your application will not be processed, and NSFAS will not be able to fund you if it is incomplete. The NSFAS funding application period for the 2025-2026 academic year will likely run from 01 September 2025 to 31 January 2026 for prospective students.
What does NSFAS cover ?
What Expenses Does the NSFAS Bursary 2025 Include?
The NSFAS Funding bursary for 2025-2026 encompasses various expenses associated with your studies, such as:
NSFAS Fund | Details |
---|---|
Tuition Fees | NSFAS covers the cost of your tuition. |
Accommodation | The bursary includes coverage for on-campus or off-campus student housing. |
Textbooks and Study Materials | NSFAS can provide a study allowance to help you purchase the necessary textbooks and materials for your coursework. |
Meals | NSFAS offers a meal allowance to assist with the cost of food while you are pursuing your studies. |
Travel Expenses | The bursary includes a travel allowance to offset the expenses related to commuting to and from the campus. |
For detailed information regarding what the bursary covers, we recommend reaching out to NSFAS directly.
How much is NSFAS allowance in 2025 ?
Expected NSFAS 2025 allowance amounts:

Allowances for TVET College Students in 2025-2026
TVET College students who are transitioning to a university may be eligible to apply for National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) funding for 2025. The specific requirements for NSFAS funding are determined by factors such as the student’s financial need, academic performance, and other criteria established by NSFAS. For more information and to apply, please visit www.nsfas.org.za.
Does NSFAS cover higher certificates ?
Yes, NSFAS funds Higher Certificate programmes at public universities and TVET colleges, as long as the qualification is accredited and the student meets funding criteria.
NSFAS Contact Information
Prospective or returning students have the option to reach out to NSFAS through their toll-free contact detail.
NSFAS-Funded Courses in 2025 – 2026
These courses are available at public universities and TVET colleges through NSFAS funding, primarily supporting first-year undergraduate degree programs.
NSFAS Advantages And Disadvantages
Explore the Key Advantages and Disadvantages of NSFAS for South African Students
Advantages of NSFAS
Disadvantages of NSFAS
FAQs About NSFAS Application
Is NSFAS open for 2026?
Applications for NSFAS 2026 are expected to open around September 2025. Exact dates will be announced on the official NSFAS website.
How much does NSFAS funding 2025 cover?
Applicants approved for NSFAS funding for 2025 are covered for registration and tuition fees. As soon as the funding is verified, you can also receive allowances for living expenses, learning materials, personal care, accommodation, and transportation.
For more information on qualifications and institutions funded by NSFAS, please visit www.nsfas.org.za.
How often does NSFAS pay allowances?
NSFAS disburses allowances monthly, typically over a 10-month academic period.
What are the criteria for applying for NSFAS funding in 2025?
NSFAS funding will be available to South African citizens or permanent residents in 2025 who are currently enrolled or currently studying at a public university or TVET college in South Africa and meet one or more of the following criteria:
Individuals receiving SASSA grants, those with a combined household income of less than R350 000 per year, individuals with disabilities with a combined household income of less than R600 000 per year, and students who began studying before 2018 and whose combined household income is less than R122 000 per year.
How do I apply for NSFAS 2025? What supporting documents do I need?
For NSFAS to process your funding application quickly, you must submit the right supporting documents. Please provide a copy of your ID as one of the required supporting documents. The Department of Home Affairs will accept a temporary ID. Non-SASSA applicants must provide ID copies of their parents, legal guardians, or spouses. Smart ID cards:
The smart ID must be copied on both sides; Proof of income: applicants and/or their parents/legal guardians/spouses (if applicable (non-SASSA)) should provide their latest pay slip, not older than 3 months, as well as UIF letters, appointment letters, and retrenchment letters (applicants and/or parents, legal guardians, spouses) as well as passports or driver’s licenses.
What is the NSFAS funding process and where do I apply?
Follow the steps above to apply for NSFAS funding 2025 by visiting www.nsfas.org.za on your smartphone, tablet, or computer. You can still apply by visiting your nearest NYDA or Thusong Center if you don’t have access to a computer or the internet.
My application for funding last year was denied. Is it possible to apply for NSFAS funding in 2025?
You must apply again if you do not meet the requirements for NSFAS funding in 2025 but your NSFAS application was not accepted in 2024, any other year, or any year thereafter.
I was approved for NSFAS funding, but I did not register during that time. For 2025, do I need to reapply?
You will have a whole year after your NSFAS application is approved to register your interest in any TVET college or university. Applicants who applied for NSFAS funding for the 2020 academic year but were not able to register for a full year must reapply.
What is the process for resetting my NSFAS account profile?
The following steps will guide you through resetting your 2025 myNSFAS account login details:
- Visit NSFAS website at www.nsfas.org.za
- You can reset your password by clicking on ‘forgot password’ on ‘myNSFAS’
- Please enter your ID number
- Specify whether you need help with a password or username.
- Click ‘Submit’ when you are done
- SMS and email will be used to send you the username and link to change your password.
- You will be redirected to the reset password page after clicking the link.
- Follow the prompts on your screen to reset your myNSFAS account password.
Is there a deadline for NSFAS applications for 2025?
Applications for 2025 may be submitted until 15 December 2024 under the NSFAS. As long as the student resubmits before the closing date or deadline, they can resubmit their application after withdrawing. NSFAS requires all students to reapply for funding as they progress through the financial progression track.
What is the N+2 rule in NSFAS funding?
The N+2 rule allows students to receive funding for the standard duration of their course (N years) plus an additional two years to complete their qualification
Can I apply for NSFAS if I’m already receiving other financial aid?
Yes, you can apply for NSFAS even if you’re receiving other forms of financial aid. However, NSFAS will assess your total financial aid package during the application process
What does ‘Filtering’ mean in the NSFAS application process?
‘Filtering’ refers to the process where NSFAS assesses various factors, such as whether you’re a returning student or have previous qualifications, to determine your eligibility for funding.
How can I check my NSFAS balance?
You can check your NSFAS balance by logging into the Celbux portal at celbux.appspot.com or by dialing 134176# on your mobile phone.
What should I do if my NSFAS payment is delayed?
If you haven’t received your NSFAS payment on time, check your myNSFAS portal for updates. If the issue persists, contact NSFAS directly for assistance.
Does NSFAS fund students at UNISA?
Yes, NSFAS provides funding for eligible students enrolled at the University of South Africa (UNISA).
Can I reapply for NSFAS if my previous application was unsuccessful?
Yes, you can reapply for NSFAS funding in subsequent years if your previous application was not approved.
What does ‘Awaiting Evaluation’ status mean on my NSFAS application?
‘Awaiting Evaluation’ indicates that your application is under review. NSFAS is verifying your submitted documents and information to determine your eligibility.
What happens if I fail a course while receiving NSFAS funding?
Failing a course may affect your NSFAS funding. It’s important to maintain satisfactory academic progress to continue receiving financial aid
Conclusion
We hope this guide has clarified everything you need to know about checking your NSFAS application status and understanding how NSFAS works.
If you experience any issues during your application process or have further questions about NSFAS funding, eligibility, or allowances, feel free to leave a comment in the box below —we’re here to help. Thank you for visiting our site, and we wish you success with your NSFAS journey!