How Do I Apply For NSFAS First Time 2025-2026?
How Do I Apply For NSFAS First Time 2025-2026
If you are a South African student who dreams of pursuing higher education but worries about financial challenges, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) can offer valuable assistance. NSFAS is a government-backed program designed to provide financial support to eligible students in South Africa.
This information aims to provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to apply for NSFAS for the first time, enabling you to grasp the application process with clarity.
SEE ALSO: NSFAS Wallet Login Online 2025
Application Opening Date For NSFAS 2025-2026
If you are a first-time applicant of NSFAS then you need to stay updated on the application opening date and deadline. As a first-timer, you must submit your application NOW as the application portal has been opened for the 2024-2025 applications. All completed applications must be submitted before January 31, 2025. NSFAS may not consider late applications for the 2025-2026 academic year, therefore, submit your application on time before the closing date.
Eligibility Requirements For NSFAS 2025-2026
Before commencing your application, it is important to confirm whether you meet the eligibility criteria for NSFAS funding. Typically, these criteria encompass being a citizen of South Africa, having a household income that falls below a specific threshold, and being enrolled or intending to enrol in a recognized tertiary institution. Therefore, you are eligible for an NSFAS bursary for the academic year 2025-2026 if you meet the following criteria;
- South African citizens or permanent residents
- SASSA grant recipients
- Applicants whose combined gross household income is not more than R350 000 per year
- Persons with disabilities whose combined gross household income is not more than R600 000 per year.
- Must have an email account and cell phone number.
Required Documentation To Apply For NSFAS 2025-2026
To complete your NSFAS application, you’ll need to gather specific documents. These may include:
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
READ: How Many Years Does NSFAS Cover 2025-2026
NSFAS Online Application Procedure 2025-2026
Follow the step-by-step guide below to apply online for NSFAS 2025-2026;
- Create a profile:
Create a myNSFAS account via this link: https://my.nsfas.org.za/ or download the NSFAS App on Google Play or App Store. Your ID number will be your username.
- Apply now:
To change your personal information and submit your application supporting documents, go to the “Apply” tab and follow the instructions.
- Complete:
Submit your application
NSFAS Application Restrictions 2025-2026
- It is a criminal offence if NSFAS discovers that an eligible student has misrepresented or manipulated their facts and they do not correspond with third-party data sources.
- If required, NSFAS reserves the power to cancel or reject financial help to the student.
READ MORE: NSFAS Supporting Documents 2025-2026
NSFAS Contact Information
- 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
Applying for NSFAS for the first time in the academic year 2025-2026 might be an important step in your educational journey. You boost your chances of completing the application process effectively by following these step-by-step instructions and remaining informed. Visit NSFAS Official website here. Hope the provided information is helpful, kindly share your thoughts below in the comment section.
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