The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is one of the most crucial ways to get money for your education if you intend to enroll in classes in 2026. NSFAS assists thousands of South African students each year with their tuition, living expenses, and other educational expenses.

This manual clarifies:

✅ How 2026 NSFAS applications are accepted for first-time students

✅ The main modifications for current NSFAS-funded students

✅ A detailed application procedure

The necessary documents and requirements

✅ Where to apply

Who Can Apply for NSFAS?

Students from working-class and impoverished households are the target audience for NSFAS bursaries. You might be eligible if you:

are citizens of South Africa

possess an annual household income of R350,000 or less.

Are you a disabled individual whose annual household income is R600,000 or less?

Are you enrolling at a TVET college or public university for 2026?

The Coverage of NSFAS

The bursary covers the majority of your study expenses in addition to tuition:

🎓 Full tuition coverage at TVET colleges or public universities

Accommodations: private, approved housing or dorms for students

Study aids and textbooks are examples of learning tools.

Transportation, food, and personal care allowances (based on your circumstances)

How to Apply for NSFAS 2026 Step-by-Step for New Students

To apply, take these actions:

Make an account on the official website (www.nsfas.org.za) for myNSFAS.
2️⃣ Click “Apply” and fill out the online application.
3. Upload the necessary files:

A certified copy of your birth certificate or identification

Parents’ or guardians’ proof of income (or an affidavit if they are unemployed)

Your parents’ or guardians’ signature on the consent form

Annexure on Disability (if applicable)
4️⃣ Before submitting, carefully review your application.
5️⃣ Send in and await confirmation via email or SMS.

👉 Advice: To prevent last-minute issues, apply as soon as you can.

Significant Modifications for Current NSFAS Students in 2026

If you now receive NSFAS funding, you should be aware of the following adjustments for 2026:

🔄 Reapplication: Students who receive funding in 2025 and continue their education often do not have to reapply, although they still need to fulfill academic performance standards.

📑 Revised regulations: Policies regarding accommodations and allowances may alter. Always refer to the updated 2026 guidelines.

🎓 Requirements for progression: In order to keep getting funding, you have to complete a specific amount of modules.

🏫 Institutional changes: You might need to update your information on the NSFAS portal if you transfer to a different university.

Typical Errors to Avoid When Applying

Filling out forms that are not complete

❌ Uploading documents that are unclear or inaccurate

Awaiting the deadline (since the system may get overloaded)

❌ Making use of someone else’s phone number or email (you need your own)

Where to Submit an NSFAS 2026 Application

Website of the NSFAS: www.nsfas.org.za

TVET Colleges & Universities: A few of these establishments have application assistance centers.

Don’t worry, though; you can also register with us if you require additional assistance.

✅ Use Don’t Worry Job Connections to apply.

We understand how stressful it can be to apply for employment and bursaries. For this reason, we provide students and job seekers additional assistance.

👉 Please register on our website so that we can inform you of NSFAS 2026 and other possibilities.

Internet address: www.dontworry.co.za

Apply@jobregister.co.za is the email address.

Concluding remarks

For students who wish to continue their studies but lack the funds, the NSFAS bursary is a transformative opportunity. Make sure you comprehend the prerequisites and due dates, regardless of whether you’re applying for the first time in 2026 or continuing as an existing student.

Don’t wait too long; begin getting your paperwork ready right away and keep abreast of any updates.

Additionally, keep in mind that you can sign up for updates, guides, and direct support by registering with Don’t Worry Job Connections.