NSFAS Application Requirements 2026

You will learn about the NSFAS application requirements, supporting documents, how to apply, and how to track your application. Follow the steps for NSFAS funding using Nelfund registration methods, login and application guidance.

The NSFAS bursary is open to all South African citizens and permanent residents with a combined household income of not more than R350 000 per annum. For persons living with disabilities, the combined household income is capped at R600 000 per annum.

In this article, you will learn about the NSFA Application requirements and how to pass eligibility.

NSFAS Application Requirements 2026

Many students ask what they need before they apply for NSFAS funding. This post shows the requirements, documents, and steps. It also shows how the Nelfund-style application ideas (login, password, registration) could align with NSFAS process, in case you compare or are working with Nelfund later.

Who qualifies for NSFAS funding

You can apply if you meet these criteria:

• You are a South African citizen or permanent resident.
• Your combined household income is not more than R350 000 per annum. If you have a disability, your income cap is R600 000.
• You must study at a public university or TVET college.

You cannot apply if:

• You already got full funding from non-NSFAS sources.
• You already have an undergraduate qualification and want another in the same level.
• You have a certificate and want a second certificate.
• You study at a private institution.
• Your qualification is not approved by DHET or by SAQA.

Required supporting documents and forms

To complete your NSFAS application you must upload or supply these:

• The Consent Form. NSFAS validates your details and those of your parent/guardian/spouse using third-party data.
• The Declaration Form. This applies if you are 34 years old or younger. It verifies your parent/guardian information.
• If you have a disability, a Disability Annexure Form, plus a medical report merged with that annexure.
• If you are under 18 or are an orphan or vulnerable child, the Orphan & Vulnerable Child Declaration Form.
• NSFAS may also ask for academic records and proof of income etc but the page stresses the forms above.

How to complete the application

Here are the steps:

• Visit the NSFAS website.
• Create a myNSFAS profile.
• Fill in all required information.
• Submit your application.

When you login, you will need your email address and password. The myNSFAS portal shows your application status, and you can upload missing documents if asked.

What NSFAS funding covers

Understanding what NSFAS gives helps you plan your application:

A bursary through NSFAS covers registration, tuition fees, learning materials, living allowance, personal care, transport or accommodation.

A NSFAS student loan covers accommodation, learning material, sometimes transport or accommodation. It excludes living/personal and transport allowances under the loan scheme.

How to track your application status

After you submit:

• Log in to your myNSFAS account using your registered email and password.
• Go to the “Track Application Progress” or “Application Status” section.
• The status terms include “Application Submitted”, “Under Review”, “Documents Missing”, “Verification Completed”, “Approved” or “Rejected”.

If rejected, NSFAS gives reasons, and you may appeal.

What NSFAS requires you avoid

You cannot apply if:

• Your qualification is unapproved.
• You already have the same level of qualification.
• You study privately when only public institutions are allowed.

How does this compare with the Nelfund application style

While NSFAS is a South African scheme, some of its application methods mirror what many systems like Nelfund use:

Both need registration and setting up login with password.

Both require forms and supporting documents.

Both track application status via an online portal.

Conclusion

Meeting the NSFAS application requirements is the first step toward securing funding for your studies. Keep your documents ready, follow the registration steps carefully, and always track your application through the portal.