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NSFAS applications for 2027 pass 868 000 as deadline nears

More than 868 000 people have applied for 2027 NSFAS funding, and the scheme says the 31 October closing date will not be extended.

By Central Admin2 min read

Almost 870 000 people have applied for financial aid through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) for the 2027 academic year, according to SAnews. The total stands at 868 626 since the window opened on 18 September 2026.

Those still planning to apply have little time left. NSFAS says applications close on 31 October 2026 and that the deadline will not be moved.

Who has applied so far

The latest application dashboard, reviewed earlier this week, gives the following breakdown:

  • Women submitted 616 558 applications (70.98%), while men submitted 252 068 (29.02%).
  • University applicants number 800 382, compared with 68 244 from prospective Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college students.
  • About 653 778 applicants receive a South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) grant, while 214 848 do not.

In the first four days of the window, the scheme had logged 51 474 applications.

How to apply and what to watch out for

Applications can be made on the official NSFAS website, www.nsfas.org.za, or through the official NSFAS mobile app. The scheme stressed that applicants should give correct and complete details and upload every required supporting document.

NSFAS also cautioned against fake social media accounts and unauthorised people who ask for money to help with an application or who promise guaranteed funding. It said these platforms are not authorised by the scheme. Applicants were urged to protect their personal information and never to pay anyone who claims they can secure or guarantee funding.

The scheme said no one can promise a funding outcome. Anyone who suspects fraud can report it anonymously by emailing the NSFAS Fraud and Corruption Hotline at [email protected].

What this means for you

  • If you have not applied yet, do it before 31 October 2026. No extension will be granted.
  • Use only the official website or the official mobile app.
  • Check your details and make sure your supporting documents are included.
  • Do not pay anyone for help with an application, and be wary of anyone promising guaranteed funding.
  • Follow NSFAS’s official channels for guidance and updates.

This story is based on reporting by SAnews.

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