NSFAS Application 2025

Apply for student funding for the 2025 academic year

Get funding for tuition, accommodation, meals, transport, and learning materials. Apply now for NSFAS funding.

Apply Now

⏰ Important Deadlines 2025

University Applications: Close 31 January 2025

TVET College Applications: Close 30 November 2025

Apply early to avoid disappointment!

Start Application

Begin your NSFAS application for 2025 on the official portal

Apply Online

Check Eligibility

Review requirements and ensure you qualify for NSFAS funding

Scroll down for requirements

How to Apply for NSFAS 2025

📝 Step-by-Step Process:

  1. 1

    Create Account

    Visit mynsfas.nsfas.org.za and register with your ID number

  2. 2

    Complete Personal Details

    Fill in your personal information and contact details

  3. 3

    Academic Information

    Provide your matric results and intended study details

  4. 4

    Upload Documents

    Submit all required supporting documents

  5. 5

    Submit Application

    Review and submit your completed application

📋 Required Documents:

Personal Documents

  • • ID document (certified copy)
  • • Matric certificate (certified copy)
  • • Academic record from previous institution

Financial Documents

  • • Parents'/guardians' ID documents
  • • Proof of income (salary slips/affidavit)
  • • Bank statements (3 months)
  • • SASSA grant documents (if applicable)

Additional Documents

  • • Death certificate (if parent deceased)
  • • Disability certificate (if applicable)
  • • Proof of residence

NSFAS Eligibility Criteria

✅ Basic Requirements:

South African citizen
Family income ≤ R350,000 per year
SASSA beneficiary (automatically qualifies)
Studying at public university or TVET college
Meet academic requirements

⚠️ Important Notes:

  • • Disability grant recipients are prioritized
  • • Academic performance affects continued funding
  • • Must be enrolled for approved qualifications

🎓 Academic Requirements:

Universities

  • • Matric with Bachelor Pass
  • • OR Diploma Pass for diploma studies
  • • Meet university entrance requirements
  • • 75% module pass rate to continue funding

TVET Colleges

  • • Grade 9 certificate (minimum)
  • • OR Grade 12/Matric certificate
  • • Meet college admission requirements
  • • Pass all modules to continue funding

Postgraduate Studies

  • • Family income ≤ R600,000 per year
  • • Completed undergraduate degree
  • • Meet postgraduate requirements
  • • Priority given to scarce skills

What Does NSFAS Fund?

🏫 Academic Costs:

Tuition Fees

Full coverage paid directly to institution

Registration Fees

Annual registration costs covered

Learning Materials

Textbooks, stationery, equipment

💰 Living Allowances:

Accommodation

Up to R68,400 per year

Meals

Up to R17,600 per year

Transport

Up to R7,350 per year

Personal Care

Up to R2,900 per year

Application Tips for Success

✅ Do's:

  • • Apply early - don't wait for deadlines
  • • Double-check all information for accuracy
  • • Upload clear, legible documents
  • • Keep copies of everything you submit
  • • Check your application status regularly

❌ Don'ts:

  • • Don't provide false information
  • • Don't submit incomplete applications
  • • Don't ignore requests for additional documents
  • • Don't wait until the last minute
  • • Don't apply multiple times with same ID

Frequently Asked Questions

When do NSFAS applications open for 2025?

NSFAS applications typically open in August/September of the previous year. For 2026, applications will open in August 2025.

Can I apply if my parents are deceased?

Yes, you can still apply. You'll need to provide death certificates and information about your current guardian or caregiver's income.

What if I don't have all required documents?

You can still submit your application and upload missing documents later. However, your application won't be processed until all documents are received.

How long does the application process take?

The evaluation process typically takes 4-6 weeks after submission of a complete application with all required documents.