NSFAS Bursary 2027: Apply For Funding With Matric

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has opened applications for students who need financial assistance for the 2027 academic year. This opportunity is for South African citizens and permanent residents who plan to study at public universities and TVET colleges. NSFAS provides bursary and loan funding to eligible students.

Application Closing Date: 18 November 2026
Location: Public Universities and TVET Colleges, South Africa
Programme Duration: Not specified
Stipend: Not specified (Bursary and loan funding provided)
Minimum Qualification: Not specified (Depends on institution and programme)
Opportunity Type: Bursary/Loan Funding

About the NSFAS Bursary 2027

NSFAS is a government entity that provides financial aid to students from low-income households. The goal of NSFAS is to ensure that financial barriers do not prevent deserving students from accessing higher education. The funding covers tuition fees, accommodation, and other study-related expenses.

This bursary programme is specifically for students who wish to pursue tertiary education at public universities or Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges in South Africa. NSFAS funding is subject to meeting specific eligibility criteria, including financial need and academic performance.

About NSFAS

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government agency established to provide financial assistance to students who cannot afford to finance their tertiary education. NSFAS aims to support students from disadvantaged backgrounds, ensuring they have the opportunity to gain qualifications from public higher education institutions.

NSFAS funds students through bursaries and loans. The scheme works closely with universities and TVET colleges to disburse funds and support students throughout their academic journey.

Available Funding Opportunities

NSFAS provides funding for various fields of study at public universities and TVET colleges. While NSFAS does not list specific “opportunities” in the same way a company might offer learnerships, it funds students across a wide range of programmes, including:

• University Programmes: Degrees and diplomas in fields such as engineering, health sciences, humanities, commerce, and more.
• TVET College Programmes: National Certificates (Vocational), National N Certificates, and National N Diploma programmes in various trades and technical fields.

What the NSFAS Bursary Offers

Successful applicants for NSFAS funding can expect to receive financial support for their studies. This typically includes:

• Tuition Fees: Full coverage of tuition costs at the institution.
• Accommodation: Funding for accommodation, whether on-campus or off-campus.
• Living Expenses: Support for meals, books, and other essential study materials.
• Travel Allowance: Assistance with travel costs if applicable.
• Bursary or Loan: Depending on the applicant’s circumstances, funding may be provided as a bursary (which does not need to be repaid) or a loan (which has repayment terms).

Programme Duration and Location

The duration of NSFAS funding typically aligns with the standard duration of the student’s chosen programme of study at a public university or TVET college. This can range from one year for certain TVET certificates to three or more years for university degrees.

The funding is applicable to studies undertaken at any public university or TVET college across South Africa.

Minimum Requirements

To be eligible for NSFAS funding in 2027, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Citizenship: Must be a South African citizen or permanent resident.
• Institution: Must be planning to study or already studying at a public university or TVET college.
• Financial Need: Combined gross household income of R350,000 or less per year for non-SASSA applicants.
• SASSA Recipients: Verified SASSA grant recipients automatically meet the financial requirement.
• Disability: For applicants with disabilities, the threshold is R600,000 or less per year.
• Registration: Must be registered or intending to register for a funded course.

Competencies Required

While NSFAS does not specify formal competencies for application, successful students generally demonstrate:

• Academic Potential: A commitment to academic success and the ability to cope with tertiary studies.
• Willingness to Learn: An eagerness to acquire new knowledge and skills.
• Resilience: The ability to overcome challenges faced during their studies.
• Responsibility: Managing their finances and academic commitments effectively.

Who Should Apply?

This NSFAS funding opportunity is ideal for South African youth and students who have a passion for learning and aspire to obtain a qualification from a public university or TVET college but lack the financial means to do so. It is particularly suited for individuals from low-income households who meet the financial eligibility criteria and are committed to their educational goals.

Required Documents

Applicants should have the following documents ready when applying:

• Personal Information: Full names, date of birth, ID number, contact details.
• Household Information: Details of parents or guardians, including their income.
• Consent Form: A signed consent form from the applicant and their parents/guardians.
• Supporting Documents: Depending on circumstances, this may include:
• Proof of income (payslips, UIF letter, bank statements).
• Death certificates (if parents are deceased).
• SASSA grant letter.
• Disability assessment forms.
• Orphan and Vulnerable Child forms.

NSFAS will specify the exact documents required during the online application process.

How to Apply

Applications for NSFAS funding in 2027 are completed online through the myNSFAS portal.

1. Create a myNSFAS profile using your correct personal information.
2. Log in to your myNSFAS account.
3. Select the “APPLY” option.
4. Complete all sections of the online application form accurately.
5. Upload all the supporting documents requested for your specific application.
6. Review your information and documents to ensure they are correct.
7. Submit your application before the closing date.
8. Regularly check your myNSFAS profile for updates on your application status.

Click here to apply for NSFAS Funding 2027 on the myNSFAS Portal

Applicants who do not have a myNSFAS account must create one before starting the funding application. It is also important to separately apply for admission to your chosen university or TVET college.

Important Notes

• Applying for NSFAS funding does not guarantee admission to a university or TVET college. You must apply for admission separately.
• Ensure all information provided is accurate and all required documents are uploaded.
• Only shortlisted candidates may be contacted for further verification.
• Apply early to allow time for corrections or to provide missing documentation.
• NSFAS is working on improvements to the application process for 2027, including automated verification.

Closing Date

The closing date for the NSFAS Bursary 2027 application cycle is 18 November 2026. Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their applications well before this date.

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