Many students search for how to cancel NSFAS application only after something goes wrong. It could be the wrong institution, the wrong course, a rejected appeal, or an application that is blocking registration. If you want to cancel your NSFAS application, you can withdraw it through the NSFAS student portal or by contacting NSFAS directly.
Once cancelled, you may reapply for a new year or correct mistakes. NSFAS links funding directly to registration, so a single mistake can stop everything. That is why knowing the correct way to cancel and reset an application matters.
Quick Glance
- You can cancel your NSFAS application through the NSFAS student portal if it is still under review or pending.
- If the cancel option is not visible, you must request cancellation by emailing NSFAS support.
- Once cancelled, you can reapply with the correct institution, course, or study year if applications are still open.
- Cancelling does not remove your eligibility; it only resets your current application.
- NSFAS does not allow cancellations through SMS.
- Always save proof of cancellation to avoid registration and funding delays.
Table of Contents
What Does “Cancel NSFAS Application” Mean?
Cancelling your NSFAS application means stopping your current funding request so you can either correct it, withdraw it entirely, or reapply with new details (such as updated institution, qualification, or year of study).
Students often cancel when they applied incorrectly, selected the wrong institution, or need to reset their application before reapplying.
Eligibility: Can You Cancel Your NSFAS Application?
Yes — anyone who has submitted an NSFAS application can cancel it if it is still:
- Under review
- Not yet approved
- Pending funding
- Has errors you want to fix
Once the application is funded and disbursed, cancellation options become limited and must be handled directly with NSFAS support.
How to Cancel NSFAS Application Online (Step-by-Step)
The easiest way to cancel your application is through the NSFAS Student Portal:
Step 1: Log In
Go to the NSFAS student portal and sign in using your ID and password.
Step 2: Check Current Application Status
On your dashboard, check if the application is:
- Active
- Submitted
- Under review
- Approved
- Rejected
Step 3: Find the “Cancel” or “Withdraw” Option
Not all dashboards show this in the same place, but it is usually under:
- Funding status
- Application details
- Edit / Update application
If you see a “Cancel application” button, click it.
Step 4: Confirm You Want to Cancel
You may be asked:
- Are you sure?
- Reason for cancellation
Provide a clear reason, such as:
- “I applied to the wrong institution.”
- “I want to reapply with correct details.”
Step 5: Save Confirmation Screenshot
After cancellation, save a screenshot. This protects you in case of system delays or disputes.
If you do not see the cancel button, continue to the email method below.
How to Cancel NSFAS Application via Email
If the portal doesn’t show a cancellation option:
Use the official NSFAS support email
info@nsfas.org.za (or the current support email listed on the NSFAS website)
What to include in your email:
- Subject: Cancel NSFAS Application – [Your Full Name, ID number]
- Your full name
- ID number
- Student number (if available)
- The reason you want to cancel
- Request to confirm cancellation
- Screenshot of your application page
Example:
Subject: Cancel NSFAS Application – John Doe, ID: 1234567890123
Dear NSFAS Support Team,
I would like to cancel my current NSFAS funding application because I applied to the wrong institution. Please confirm cancellation so I can reapply with the correct details.
Name: John Doe
ID: 1234567890123
NSFAS reference: 987654321
Thank you.
Can You Cancel via SMS?
As of now, NSFAS does not support cancellation via SMS. All official cancellation requests should be made through:
- Student portal
- NSFAS call centre
How to Cancel NSFAS Accommodation Application
If you only want to cancel the accommodation funding (and keep your main NSFAS application), follow these steps:
- Log in to the NSFAS student portal
- Go to “Accommodation funding details.”
- Select “Cancel accommodation only.”
- Confirm
Most students use this if they found private accommodation or hostel space.
After You Cancel — Can You Reapply?
Yes — you can reapply after cancelling, with the correct information.
Make sure to:
- Reopen the application window
- Update your details (institution, qualification, year)
- Submit before the application deadline
If you cancel after the official closing date, you may need to wait for the next application cycle.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Cancelling without knowing the deadline — may block you from reapplying that year
- Not saving confirmation — you need evidence if NSFAS delays
- Sending incomplete email — missing ID or reference means delays
- Assuming SMS works — it does not
Why Some Students Cancel Their NSFAS Application
- Applied to UNISA but meant Sefako Makgatho
- Wrong residence selected (hostel instead of private)
- Qualification entered incorrectly
- Duplicate application submitted
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Will cancelling NSFAS delete my eligibility?
No — you remain eligible, but you’ll need to reapply correctly.
How long does cancellation take?
NSFAS cancellation usually takes 1–5 business days for portal confirmation. Email may take longer.
What if NSFAS approved my application already?
Contact NSFAS support — cancellation after approval may need manual handling.
Can I cancel and reapply in the same year?
Yes, if the application window is still open.
Conclusion
Cancelling an NSFAS application is often the right step when details are incorrect or when a new application needs to be submitted. Whether it is done through the student portal or by contacting NSFAS support, the goal is to remove blocks that prevent registration and funding. When handled correctly, cancellation allows the funding process to continue without unnecessary delays.
Students should always check application deadlines, save proof of cancellation, and submit a new application as soon as possible. Taking the right steps early can prevent lost funding, missed registration periods, and extended waiting times during the academic year.
Varsha Asrani is a lecturer and education writer with experience as Visiting Faculty at AUPP and ATMC College, and as a Lecturer with TalentEdge and UpGrad. She is the Founder of the Asrani Institute of Education and Counselling. Varsha specializes in scholarships, e-learning, and career guidance for African students and professionals, and regularly visits Africa to gather first-hand insights that shape her research and articles.
