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NSFAS receives 868 626 applications for 2027 funding

Published

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme says applications close on 31 October 2026 and will not be extended. Most applicants are women, and most are university applicants, according to its latest application dashboard.

Applications opened on 18 September 2026. The scheme received 51,474 funding applications in the first four days of the window. Of the total, 800 382 come from prospective university students and 68 244 from TVET college applicants.

Female applicants number 616 558 (70.98%) and male applicants number 252 068 (29.02%). Applicants who receive grants from the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) number 653 778, while 214 848 are not SASSA beneficiaries.

NSFAS also warned applicants about fraudulent accounts and people who demand payment. The scheme said "no one can guarantee a funding outcome".

Key facts

Who
National Student Financial Aid Scheme (scheme issuing the application figures and warnings)
What
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme has received 868 626 applications for 2027 funding, according to its latest application dashboard, and reminded prospective students that the closing date is 31 October 2026 with no extensions. It also warned applicants against fraudulent accounts and people demanding payment.
When
22 October 2026
Where
South Africa
Status
Reported

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