Documents Needed to Apply for NSFAS 2026-2027

Documents Needed to Apply for NSFAS 2026-2027

If you’re planning to apply for NSFAS funding for the 2026-2027 academic year, it’s important to know which documents you will need to complete your application successfully. NSFAS, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme, helps students in South Africa who need financial assistance to pay for their studies at public universities and TVET colleges. Having all the required documents ready before you start your application will make the process quicker and smoother, increasing your chances of getting the support you need. When applying for NSFAS, you’ll be asked to provide several key documents to prove your identity, financial situation, and academic acceptance. One of the most important requirements is your South African ID or a valid passport if you are a permanent resident.

This helps NSFAS verify who you are. You will also need proof of your household income to show that you qualify for financial aid. This could be a recent payslip, an affidavit if you don’t earn a salary, or a SASSA card if your family receives social grants. It’s also essential to have a letter from your chosen public university or TVET college confirming that you have been accepted to study there. This confirms to NSFAS that you are enrolled or planning to enroll in a qualifying institution. If you have a disability, you may need to provide medical proof or a disability certificate as part of your application.

In addition to these documents, you will need a valid email address and cellphone number to create your myNSFAS account and receive updates about your application. Being prepared with all these documents before you begin your application will save you time and help you avoid delays. In this article, we’ll guide you through the full list of documents you need for your NSFAS 2026-2027 application and offer tips on how to gather them efficiently. Getting this right is the first step toward securing financial support for your studies.

Also Read: NSFAS Student Portal

Documents Required for NSFAS 2026 Application

Submitting the correct documents is a critical step in the NSFAS application process. It verifies your identity, residential address, and financial status, enabling NSFAS to assess your eligibility for funding. Providing inaccurate or incomplete documentation may lead to application delays or even rejection. Therefore, having all the necessary documents at hand before starting your application is essential. For the 2026-2027 academic year, the following documents are required for the NSFAS application;

Students with disabilities must provide:

A completed and signed Disability Annexure A Form

Students recognised as vulnerable children must provide:

An applicant who is recognised as a vulnerable child by the Department of Social Development must provide and Vulnerable Child Declaration form completed by a social worker

Other documents that may be required, if applicable:

Retrenchment letter
Death certificate/s
Divorce Decree
Proof of legal guardianship
Marriage certificate
Other documents may be required for appeal purposes, eg, retrenchment letter.

NSFAS Eligibility Criteria

You must be a South African citizen and have a valid South African ID.
You need to be registered or have been accepted to study at a public university or a TVET college in South Africa.
Eligibility includes first-time applicants or returning students who meet the required academic performance standards.
Your household income should not exceed R350,000 per year; if you have a disability, the limit is R600,000 per year.
If you receive a SASSA grant, you automatically qualify for NSFAS funding.
You must provide a valid email address and cellphone number for communication purposes.
You should be enrolled in an NSFAS-funded program like PLP, NC(V), or Report 191 at a public TVET college.
You cannot be applying to study a qualification that you have already received NSFAS funding for (no duplicate qualifications).
If you’re applying for continued funding, you must show satisfactory academic progress.
Applicants recognized as vulnerable children by the Department of Social Development may also be eligible.

READ: Create NSFAS Portal Account

How to Apply for NSFAS 2026 Applications

NSFAS has announced that students can either apply online on their website or visit the TVET college they plan to enrol with to apply:

Visit the official NSFAS website: www.nsfas.org.za
Click on the “MyNSFAS” tab to create an account.
Provide your details, including your ID number, email address, and phone number.
Once your account is created, log in using your credentials.
Complete the Online Application Form
Fill out the application form accurately. Ensure that all personal, academic, and financial details are correctly entered.
Upload Required Documents (Ensure that the documents are clear and legible to avoid delays or rejections)
Review your application to ensure all details are correct, and submit your application
You will receive a confirmation message once your application is successfully submitted.

NSFAS Contact Information

You can get in touch with NSFAS through the details provided below:

Website:

www.nsfas.org.za

Email:

info@nsfas.org.za

South African students:

0860 067 327

International students:

+27 21 763 3232

Physical Address:

10 Brodie Road, Wynberg, Cape Town, South Africa, 7700

Postal Address:

Private Bag X1, Plumstead, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa, 7801

The NSFAS funding can make a significant difference in a student’s life, opening doors to higher education and future opportunities. By preparing the necessary documents in advance, you can avoid unnecessary stress and ensure your application process for NSFAS 2026 goes easily. Remember, the application process is free, and no fees are required. So, gather your documents, apply on time, and embark on your journey to academic success! Share or post your questions and opinions in the space provided below. Click HERE for details