The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has confirmed that it will continue providing financial support to over one million students in the 2026 academic year, reinforcing government’s commitment to expanding access to higher education and skills development in South Africa. This confirmation brings much-needed clarity to students, parents, universities, and TVET colleges planning for the 2026 intake.
NSFAS funding remains a critical pillar in supporting students from poor and working-class households who would otherwise be unable to afford tertiary education. With rising enrolment numbers and growing demand for financial aid, the 2026 funding commitment signals continuity, stability, and accountability within the public higher education system.
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has officially confirmed that it will provide funding for more than one million students across South Africa in 2026. This announcement brings relief to countless learners who are aiming to pursue tertiary education but face financial challenges.
According to NSFAS, the funding programme will cover both full-time university and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college students. Eligible applicants will receive support for tuition fees, accommodation, books, and other essential academic costs, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent them from completing their studies.
The announcement comes at a crucial time, as many students and parents are preparing applications for the upcoming academic year. “We are committed to making higher education accessible to all deserving students,” said a spokesperson from NSFAS. “Our goal is to support learners who demonstrate financial need and academic potential.”
Related Opportunities 2026
- Funding Bursaries
- Youth Opportunities
- Internship Programme
- Learnership Programme
- Online Courses
- Government Education Updates
Who Qualifies for NSFAS Funding?
NSFAS funding is primarily targeted at students from low-income households, typically those with a combined household income of R350,000 or less per year. Applicants must be South African citizens or permanent residents who meet the academic requirements of the institution they wish to attend.
Students who have previously received NSFAS funding are encouraged to reapply if they wish to continue their studies in 2026. The application process will be available online through the official NSFAS portal, and applicants are advised to ensure that all supporting documents, including identification and income verification, are submitted accurately to avoid delays.
Application Tips and Key Dates
Prospective students are encouraged to start preparing their applications early. Common mistakes, such as missing documents or incorrect personal information, can lead to delays in funding approval. NSFAS also advises students to regularly check their email and the official NSFAS website for updates on the status of their applications.
The organisation has emphasized that funding decisions will be based on both financial need and academic eligibility, so students are urged to maintain good academic standing. Additionally, students planning to attend TVET colleges should ensure that their applications reflect the specific programmes they intend to study.
With over a million students set to benefit, NSFAS funding remains a cornerstone of South Africa’s efforts to expand access to higher education. This support not only allows students to pursue their academic dreams but also contributes to the country’s broader goal of developing skilled professionals across various industries.
What NSFAS Funding for 2026 Means for Students
The confirmation that NSFAS will fund over one million students in 2026 does not represent a sudden policy shift, but rather a continuation of South Africa’s broader higher-education funding framework introduced under the bursary system for poor and working-class students.
NSFAS funding in 2026 will continue to prioritise:
- Students from households with a combined annual income of R350,000 or less
- Students living with disabilities from households earning up to R600,000 per year
- First-time entering students and returning students who meet academic progression rules
By confirming funding at scale, NSFAS provides certainty to institutions when finalising admissions, accommodation allocations, and academic planning for the 2026 academic year.
NSFAS 2026 Funding Allocation Explained
How Many Students Will NSFAS Fund in 2026?
NSFAS has indicated that more than one million students across public universities and TVET colleges will receive financial support in 2026. This includes:
- First-year students
- Returning undergraduate students
- Eligible TVET college students enrolled in approved programmes
This funding projection aligns with previous years, where NSFAS supported between 900,000 and 1.1 million students annually.
Public Universities and TVET Colleges Covered by NSFAS
NSFAS funding for 2026 applies only to public institutions, including:
- All 26 public universities in South Africa
- 50 public TVET colleges and their campuses
Private colleges and institutions remain excluded from NSFAS funding.
What NSFAS Covers for Funded Students in 2026
NSFAS Tuition Coverage for 2026
NSFAS will continue to cover 100% of approved tuition costs for funded students at public institutions, subject to institutional fee structures and programme approval.
NSFAS Allowances for 2026 Students
In addition to tuition, NSFAS provides structured allowances to support students’ basic needs. These typically include:
- Accommodation (institutional or accredited private housing)
- Living allowance
- Learning materials allowance
- Transport allowance (for qualifying students living off-campus)
Allowance values are reviewed periodically, and official 2026 allowance amounts will be communicated directly by NSFAS and institutions once finalised.
NSFAS 2026 Eligibility Criteria: Who Qualifies?
Household Income Requirements for NSFAS 2026
To qualify for NSFAS funding in 2026, applicants must meet the following financial criteria:
- Household income of R350,000 or less per year
- SASSA grant recipients automatically qualify (subject to academic requirements)
- Students with disabilities qualify with household income up to R600,000
Academic Requirements for NSFAS Funding
NSFAS funding is not automatic and depends on:
- Meeting institutional admission requirements
- Satisfactory academic progression for returning students
- Enrolment in an NSFAS-approved qualification
Students who fail to meet progression rules may lose funding, even if they meet financial criteria.
NSFAS 2026 Application and Registration Process
When to Apply for NSFAS 2026
NSFAS applications for 2026 are expected to open during the second half of 2025, following the standard annual application cycle. Students are encouraged to apply early to avoid delays.
How to Apply for NSFAS Funding
Students must apply through the official NSFAS online portal using:
- A valid South African ID number
- Supporting household income information
- Consent for verification with government databases
NSFAS 2026 Application – Official Portal
➡️ Apply or log in here: https://my.nsfas.org.za/
Applications submitted outside the official NSFAS platform are not valid.
NSFAS Confirmation and Government Oversight
Role of the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET)
NSFAS operates under the oversight of the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET). Funding confirmations are aligned with national budget allocations approved by Parliament.
This oversight structure strengthens accountability and ensures NSFAS funding remains part of South Africa’s long-term education strategy.
Measures to Improve NSFAS Administration in 2026
Following challenges in previous years, NSFAS continues to implement:
- Improved application verification systems
- Enhanced direct payment processes
- Stronger institutional coordination with universities and TVET colleges
These improvements aim to reduce delays in allowances and accommodation payments.
What Students Should Do Now for NSFAS 2026
Steps to Prepare for NSFAS 2026 Funding
Students planning to study in 2026 should:
- Apply for admission at public universities or TVET colleges
- Gather household income documentation early
- Monitor official NSFAS announcements
- Avoid relying on unverified social media claims
Importance of Using Official NSFAS Information
NSFAS regularly warns students against misinformation. Only updates published through:
- The NSFAS website
- Official government channels
- Recognised public institutions
should be trusted when planning for 2026 funding.
Why NSFAS Funding Matters for South Africa’s Future
NSFAS funding plays a critical role in:
- Reducing financial barriers to higher education
- Supporting skills development
- Promoting social mobility
- Addressing historical inequality in access to education
By confirming funding for over one million students in 2026, NSFAS reinforces its mandate to support inclusive growth and human capital development.
Final Thoughts: NSFAS Confirms Stability for 2026 Students
The confirmation that NSFAS will fund over one million students in 2026 provides reassurance to thousands of South African households. While students must still meet eligibility and academic requirements, the funding framework remains firmly in place.
Prospective students are encouraged to plan early, rely on official information, and take full advantage of the opportunities provided through public higher education funding.
