The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has received more than 868,000 applications for the 2027 funding cycle, as prospective university and TVET college students seek financial assistance for their studies.
Since applications opened on 18 September 2026, NSFAS has received 868,626 applications, according to its latest application dashboard published earlier this week.
The application window closes on 31 October 2026, and NSFAS has confirmed that there will be no extensions. Prospective students who have not yet applied are encouraged to submit their applications before the deadline.
NSFAS 2027 Applications: University and TVET College Figures
The latest figures show that most applicants are prospective university students, while a smaller proportion are applying for funding to study at Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges.
Of the 868,626 applications received:
- University applicants: 800,382
- TVET college applicants: 68,244
The figures also show a significant difference between the number of female and male applicants.
Female applicants account for 616,558 applications, representing 70.98% of the total. Male applicants account for 252,068 applications, or 29.02%.
In terms of social grant status, 653,778 applicants are South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) beneficiaries, while 214,848 applicants are not SASSA beneficiaries.
NSFAS has thanked prospective students who have already submitted their applications and reminded others to complete the process before applications close.
How to Apply for NSFAS Funding in 2027
Students who still need to apply for NSFAS funding can submit their applications through the official NSFAS website at www.nsfas.org.za or by using the official NSFAS mobile application.
Applicants should ensure that all the information they provide is accurate and complete, and that they submit the required supporting documents.
“Applicants must ensure that their information is accurate and complete and that all required supporting documentation is submitted,” NSFAS said in a statement.
Students are encouraged to use official NSFAS communication platforms for application guidance and updates.
NSFAS Warns Applicants About Funding Scams
NSFAS has warned prospective students to be cautious of fraudulent social media accounts and unauthorised individuals who offer application assistance in exchange for payment or promise guaranteed funding.
“These platforms are not authorised by NSFAS, and applicants are urged to exercise caution, protect their personal information, and never pay individuals or organisations claiming to facilitate or guarantee an NSFAS application or funding outcome.
“NSFAS applications must be submitted through official platforms, and no one can guarantee a funding outcome. Suspected fraud can be reported anonymously to the NSFAS Fraud and Corruption Hotline at [email protected],” NSFAS said.
Students should avoid sharing personal information with unverified accounts or paying third parties who claim they can influence the outcome of an application.
NSFAS Application Deadline for 2027
The closing date for NSFAS 2027 funding applications is 31 October 2026. NSFAS has stated that no extensions will be granted, making it important for prospective students to submit their applications on time.
The scheme received 51,474 applications within the first four days of the application window, highlighting the strong early response from students seeking financial assistance.
Students who intend to study at a public university or TVET college in 2027 should ensure that they understand the application requirements and complete the process through official NSFAS channels before the deadline.
Official NSFAS website: www.nsfas.org.za
