Many students are asking when is NSFAS opening for 2026, and the expected timeline points to a September–November 2025 application window based on previous funding cycles.
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has not yet released the official opening date for 2026 applications.
However, based on patterns from previous years, the application window for 2026 is expected to open between September and November 2025.
This projected period aligns with the timelines used for the 2024, 2025, and 2026 cycles.
Quick Answer: NSFAS Opening Date 2026
NSFAS has not confirmed the exact opening date for 2026 yet. Based on recent cycles, applications for the 2026 academic year are expected to open between September and November 2025, once the funding rules and system checks are approved.
Why NSFAS Uses a September–November Window
NSFAS receives its mandate from the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET). Before any date is announced, NSFAS must complete several internal steps:
- Approval of the funding budget
- Review of qualifying thresholds
- Confirmation of university and TVET readiness
- Testing of the MyNSFAS system
- Policy finalisation
These steps typically conclude toward the end of the year, which is why the application period consistently falls around September to November.
Expected Opening Date Range for 2026 Applications
Students frequently search for variations such as “when is NSFAS opening for 2026 applications” or “when is the NSFAS application opening for 2026.” Based on previous years:
- Opening window: September–November 2025
- Applies to: Universities and TVET colleges
- For: First-time applicants and returning students
This same period also applies to students searching for “when is NSFAS opening for 2026 for university,” “when is NSFAS opening for 2026 undergraduate,” or “when is NSFAS opening for 2026 in South Africa.”
What Students Should Prepare Before the Applications Open
To avoid delays once the applications go live, students should prepare all required documents in advance. NSFAS typically requires:
- Certified South African ID
- Parent or guardian ID copies
- Proof of income or an affidavit confirming unemployment
- Latest school results or academic transcript
- Consent form for household income verification
- Disability annexure form (when applicable)
These requirements do not change based on whether the applicant is applying for a university or a TVET qualification.
Students can refer to our existing guide to understand the full requirements.
How Long Does the Application Window Stay Open
Once NSFAS officially announces the date, the application window usually stays open for 6 to 10 weeks. Students searching for “when is NSFAS opening for 2026 closing date” should note that exact closing dates are only confirmed after the opening announcement.
Typical patterns show:
- Opening: September–November
- Closing: Late December to early January
This applies to first-time applicants, returning students, and students switching institutions.
How to Apply When the 2026 Window Opens
Applications for the 2026 academic year will be processed online through the MyNSFAS portal. Students will need to:
- Create or update their MyNSFAS account
- Complete all sections in the application form
- Upload documents in the correct format
- Submit the application
- Track the status under “Application Status.”
If you need help, you can check our guide on the NFSFAS application.
How to Confirm the Official Opening Date
NSFAS will publish the confirmed date on:
- The official NSFAS website: https://www.nsfas.org.za
- NSFAS social media pages (X/Twitter and Facebook)
- DHET announcements
- Ministerial briefings
Students should rely only on official channels only, as outdated graphics circulate widely near the opening period.
Key Takeaway: NSFAS 2026 Applications
The official NSFAS opening date for 2026 is still pending, but the expected period remains September–November 2025. Preparing documents early and following only NSFAS and DHET channels ensures students are ready the moment applications open.
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.
