How to Apply for NSFAS (2025 Edition)

Updated guide for South African students

Applying for NSFAS can feel confusing, especially if it’s your first time. But the process is much simpler when you know exactly what is needed.

Start by preparing your documents; also see Where to Find Bursaries in South Africa for alternatives.

This 2025 guide breaks down everything step-by-step — who qualifies, what documents you need, and how to apply without mistakes.

1. Who Qualifies for NSFAS in 2025?

You qualify if:

✔ You are a South African citizen
✔ Your household income is R350,000 or less per year
✔ You’re applying for or currently studying at a public TVET College or University
✔ You have financial need
✔ You are in Grade 9–12 and want to study at a TVET College
✔ You are in Grade 12 and want to study at a University
✔ You have already applied before and need funding again

People who automatically qualify:
✔ SASSA beneficiaries
✔ Orphans and vulnerable children
✔ Students with disabilities (income threshold: R600,000)

2. Documents You Need for NSFAS (2025)

Prepare these before applying:

📌 Personal Documents

• Certified copy of your ID

• Parent/guardian/spouse certified IDs

• Proof of residence

• Your cellphone number & email address

📌 Financial Documents

• Parent/guardian payslips OR

• Affidavit if unemployed

• SASSA letter (if applicable)

📌 Academic Documents

• Latest school results or matric certificate

• Acceptance letter (if available)

📌 For Students With Disabilities

• Disability Annexure A form

• Medical report

👉 Tip: Make sure all documents are certified within 3 months.

3. How to Apply for NSFAS Online (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Visit the NSFAS Website

Go to: www.nsfas.org.za

Step 2: Click on “myNSFAS Login”

Create an account if you don’t have one.

Step 3: Verify Your Email & Cellphone

NSFAS will send you an OTP.

Step 4: Log In

Enter your username and password.

Step 5: Click “Apply”

Fill in all personal information.

Step 6: Upload All Required Documents

Make sure they are clear and readable.

Step 7: Submit Your Application

You will receive a confirmation SMS and email.

4. NSFAS Pays For (2025)

🎓 University Students

✔ Tuition fees
✔ Accommodation
✔ Living allowance
✔ Transport allowance
✔ Book allowance
✔ Personal care allowance

🏫 TVET College Students

✔ Tuition
✔ Accommodation or transport allowance
✔ Living allowance
✔ Personal care allowance

5. Common Mistakes That Reject NSFAS Applications

❌ Uploading blurry documents
❌ Wrong ID number or email
❌ Missing parent income documents
❌ Using someone else’s phone number
❌ Submitting late

Always use your OWN number — NSFAS will text you updates.

6. How to Track Your NSFAS Application

Log in to your myNSFAS portal and check your status:

• Application Submitted

• Evaluation

• Awaiting Documents

• Pending

• Approved

• Rejected

Once approved, use our Top 10 Colleges in South Africa guide to pick your campus and course.

Final Advice

Apply early and upload the correct documents. If your application is complete and accurate, your chances of getting funded are very high.

NSFAS helps millions of South Africans every year — don’t miss your opportunity.