NSFAS Bursary 2026: Everything You Need To Know

If you are planning to study at a public university or TVET college in South Africa in 2026 but cannot afford the fees, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is the most popular and widely searched bursary to apply for. This guide will give you everything you need to know about the NSFAS bursary 2026, including eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.

What is NSFAS?

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government-funded bursary program aimed at helping South African students from low-income households access higher education. NSFAS covers tuition fees, accommodation, transport, study materials, and even a living allowance, making it a full bursary package.

NSFAS is administered under the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and is the most searched bursary in South Africa because of the vital role it plays in making education accessible.

👉 Official website: www.nsfas.org.za

Who Qualifies for NSFAS 2026?

To be eligible for NSFAS funding in 2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Be a South African citizen.
Come from a household with a combined annual income of R350,000 or less.
If living with a disability, the household income threshold is R600,000 or less.
Be accepted or intending to study at a public university or TVET college.
Applicants must not have completed a previous undergraduate qualification (unless applying for postgraduate teaching courses funded by NSFAS).
Must meet the academic requirements set by their chosen institution.
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What Does NSFAS Cover?

NSFAS is one of the few bursaries that provides comprehensive financial support:

Tuition fees (100% covered)
Registration fees
Accommodation (university residences or accredited private accommodation)
Transport allowance (up to 40 km from the institution)
Living allowance
Learning materials allowance (including laptops and textbooks)
Personal care allowance
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When to Apply for NSFAS 2026

The NSFAS 2026 applications will open in the last quarter of 2025 (expected September – November 2025) and close in January 2026.
⚠️ Exact dates will be confirmed on the official NSFAS website.

How to Apply for NSFAS 2026

Applying for NSFAS is completely free and done online:

Go to the NSFAS official portal: www.nsfas.org.za
Click on “myNSFAS” and register an account using your ID number and email/phone number.
Log in and complete the online application form.
Upload the required supporting documents (see below).
Submit your application and wait for confirmation.

Documents Needed for NSFAS Application 2026

Applicants must prepare clear certified copies of the following:

South African ID (or birth certificate if under 16).
Parent(s) or guardian’s ID.
Proof of household income (salary slip, affidavit, SASSA letter, etc.).
Disability Annexure A form (if applicable).
Proof of acceptance/registration at a public university or TVET college.

Why Apply for NSFAS?

It is a full bursary (not a loan).
Covers both academic and living costs.
Widely accessible for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Provides additional support, including laptops for online learning.

NSFAS Contact Details

Website: www.nsfas.org.za
Helpline: 08000 67327 (08000 NSFAS)
Email: info@nsfas.org.za
Twitter/X: @myNSFAS

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Bursaries in South Africa 2026

1. What is a bursary?

A bursary is financial assistance given to students to help cover the costs of their studies. In South Africa, bursaries are usually offered by government departments, private companies, universities, and NGOs. Depending on the provider, a bursary may cover tuition fees only, or it may also include accommodation, textbooks, and living allowances. Unlike loans, most bursaries do not have to be repaid, although some come with conditions such as maintaining good grades or working for the sponsor after graduation.

2. Who qualifies for a bursary?

Eligibility depends on the bursary provider, but most bursaries require applicants to:

Be a South African citizen with a valid ID.
Be accepted or enrolled at a recognized university or TVET college.
Have good academic performance.
Show financial need (for need-based bursaries).
In some cases, demonstrate leadership potential or community involvement.

3. Do bursaries cover accommodation and living expenses?

Yes, some bursaries are full-cost bursaries, which means they pay for tuition, residence, meals, transport, and study materials. Examples include Sasol, Old Mutual, and some government bursaries. Others may only cover tuition or provide a partial contribution. Always read the bursary terms carefully to understand what is included.

4. Can I apply for more than one bursary?

Yes, students can apply for multiple bursaries at the same time. This increases your chances of being funded. If you are awarded more than one bursary, you will normally have to choose one. Some providers also ask you to declare whether you are receiving other financial assistance.

5. Do I have to pay back a bursary?

Most bursaries do not need to be repaid. However, some include a work-back obligation, which means you will have to work for the sponsoring company or government department for a certain number of years after graduation. This is common in bursaries from banks, law firms, and big corporations, and it ensures you gain practical work experience.

6. What happens if I fail my studies while on a bursary?

Most bursary contracts require students to maintain a minimum average, often around 60–65%. If you fail a module or do not meet the performance standard, your bursary funding could be suspended or cancelled. Some bursary providers allow students to repeat failed modules, but this depends on the contract terms.

7. When should I apply for bursaries for 2026?

Bursary applications for the 2026 academic year usually open between April and October 2025. Each bursary has its own deadline, so it’s important to keep track. Large organizations like Sasol, Nedbank, and Shoprite often open applications mid-year, while university bursaries may close later in the year.

8. Do bursaries guarantee me a job after graduation?

Not all bursaries guarantee employment, but many corporate bursaries (like those from banks, retailers, and law firms) include a job offer or internship after graduation. Government bursaries also sometimes place graduates in public service roles. Always check the bursary conditions to know whether a work placement is included.

Conclusion

The NSFAS bursary 2026 is the number one bursary opportunity for South African students who need financial support to pursue higher education. With full coverage of tuition, accommodation, and allowances, NSFAS continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of South Africa’s youth.

Make sure you prepare your documents early, apply on time, and follow all application guidelines to secure your chance at higher education through NSFAS.