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NSFAS receives 868,626 applications and rules out deadline extension

Published

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) said most applicants for the 2027 funding cycle are Sassa beneficiaries. Applications close on 31 October, and NSFAS also warned students about fraudulent accounts and people who demand payment.

NSFAS said 653,778 applicants are beneficiaries of the South African Social Security Agency (Sassa). The other 214,848 applicants are not Sassa beneficiaries.

Women sent 616,558 applications, which is 70.98% of the total. Men sent 252,068, or 29.02%.

Of the applications, 800,382 are from students who want funding for university study. Another 68,244 come from prospective TVET college students.

NSFAS said fraudulent social media accounts and people who demand payment are not authorised by the scheme.

Key facts

Who
National Student Financial Aid Scheme (scheme that received the applications and issued the deadline warning); South African Social Security Agency (agency whose beneficiaries make up most applicants); Ishmael Mnisi (NSFAS spokesperson); National Student Financial Scheme (scheme that received the applications)
What
NSFAS reported 868,626 applications for its 2027 funding cycle, most from Sassa beneficiaries, and said there will be no extensions to the October 31 closing date. It also warned applicants against fraudulent accounts and people demanding payment.
When
20 October 2026
Where
South Africa
Status
Reported

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