Students have days to secure a chance at NSFAS funding
PRETORIA — Students seeking NSFAS funding for next year have until 31 October to submit their applications, with the National Student Financial Aid Scheme warning that there will be no extension. The deadline leaves prospective university and TVET college students only days to complete the process for the 2027 academic year.
In its update issued on 20 October, NSFAS reported receiving 868,626 applications, including 800,382 for university studies and 68,244 for TVET colleges. These figures represent applications received, rather than funding approvals.
Use the latest closing date
Earlier government communication announcing the application cycle gave 18 November as the closing date. However, NSFAS’s more recent statement explicitly sets the deadline at 31 October and rules out an extension. Its application guidance also lists 31 October, making that the date applicants should work towards.
Applicants can use the official NSFAS website or the scheme’s official mobile application. They should check that their personal information is accurate and that all required supporting documents have been submitted before the deadline.
Do not pay for promises of approval
NSFAS has also warned about fraudulent social media accounts and unauthorised individuals demanding payment for application assistance or promising guaranteed funding. Applicants should protect their personal information and use official platforms, as nobody can guarantee a successful funding outcome.
For students still completing the process, the immediate priority is to submit a complete application before 31 October, rather than rely on the earlier November date or the possibility of extra time.
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