NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme) is the official South African government financial aid programme that funds eligible students at public universities and TVET colleges. This guide helps you apply, check your NSFAS status, upload documents and avoid scams — in a safe and trusted way. Visit the Official NSFAS Website: https://www.nsfas.org.za
Important: MyInfoHub is an independent information site and is not affiliated with NSFAS or any government department, and we never ask for ID numbers, OTPs or banking passwords. Beware of scammers and ONLY use official NSFAS links when entering or checking personal information: https://www.nsfas.org.za.
Table of Contents
Who Can Apply for NSFAS 2025 / 2026?
- South African citizens with valid ID
- Students accepted or applying at a public university or TVET college
- Household income under R350,000 per year (or R600,000 for disabled students)
- Applicants must meet the academic entry requirements of the institution
Documents Required for NSFAS
- Smart ID card / birth certificate
- Proof of income / affidavit for unemployed parents
- Consent form signed by household members
- Proof of disability (if applicable)
- SASSA beneficiaries only need their ID — income proof not required
How to Apply for NSFAS 2025 / 2026
- Visit the official NSFAS portal: www.nsfas.org.za
- Register and verify your cellphone number
- Complete all required fields
- Upload supporting documents
- Submit and keep your reference number safe
Tip: Check your application weekly for document updates or requests.
How to Check NSFAS Status
- Login to MyNSFAS: my.nsfas.org.za
- Enter your ID number and password
- View the latest NSFAS application status update
Motivating your application early increases your chances of approval. For more information on checking NSFAS status, see our detailed NSFAS Status Check Guide which covers this topic in more detail.
NSFAS Status Meaning Explained
| Status | Meaning | Action Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Application Submitted | NSFAS received your data | Wait for verification |
| Funding Eligibility | Income threshold under review | Upload missing documents ASAP |
| Awaiting Registration | Institution must confirm your space | Ensure you are enrolled |
| Approved for Funding | You qualify for NSFAS | Wait for allowance schedule |
| Rejected | Not eligible based on rules | You may submit an appeal |
NSFAS Allowances 2025 / 2026
Last officially confirmed allowances include:
- Accommodation — institutional rates
- Transport — up to R7,500 per annum
- Living Allowance — R1,650 per month
- Learning Materials — annual capped amount
Note: NSFAS 2025/2026 allowance updates will be added when confirmed by Government.
NSFAS Appeals Process
- Log into MyNSFAS
- Select “Appeal”
- Upload supporting documents
- Submit before the deadline
Appeals are free. Anyone requesting payment to “secure” funding is running a scam.
Beware of Fake NSFAS Websites & Social Media Posts
Scammers impersonate NSFAS to steal personal information or registration fees. Protect yourself:
- Official websites always end with .gov.za or nsfas.org.za
- Never pay anyone to apply for NSFAS
- Never share your OTP
- To submit information on fraud or corruption witnessed or identified, contact NSFAS via email: speakup@nsfas.org.za
For more information on scams see our article: Grant & Scam Awareness — Protect Yourself Online
TVET Students — Important Dates
- Trimester & Semester intake supported
- Registrations must be confirmed by the college
- Status updates may take ~7–30 days
NSFAS FAQs 2025 / 2026
1️⃣ When is NSFAS opening for 2025?
Expected between September–November 2024 (to be confirmed by NSFAS).
2️⃣ Can SASSA SRD R370 beneficiaries apply?
Yes, SASSA beneficiaries automatically meet financial requirements.
3️⃣ How long does NSFAS take to approve?
Anywhere from a few weeks to several months.
4️⃣ Can I apply without a cellphone?
No — a verified cellphone number is required for OTPs and updates.
Disclaimer
This website is not affiliated with NSFAS, SASSA, or any government department. We provide free informational resources only. For official updates, always visit NSFAS.org.za. Users should seek professional or institutional advice where necessary.
