NSFAS receives more than 51,000 applications in first four days of 2027 cycle - IOL

NSFAS says it is encouraged by the strong response from prospective applicants after more than 51,000 applications were received within the first four days of the 2027 application cycle.

More than 51,000 applications have been submitted to the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) within four days of the opening of the 2027 application cycle.

NSFAS said it had received 51,474 applications, with the latest figures showing strong demand for financial assistance among prospective students seeking access to higher education and training.

The scheme said the early application figures “demonstrate the continued importance of NSFAS in enabling access to higher education and training for deserving South African students”, and reflect growing awareness of government-funded student financial aid.

According to the latest application dashboard statistics, the largest group comprises first-time students and prospective applicants, with 43,297 applications received so far.

A further 6,865 applications have come from Further Education and Training (FET) applicants, while 1,312 applications have been submitted by senior applicants seeking funding opportunities.

NSFAS said 12,625 applicants had indicated they were beneficiaries of the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), while 52 applications had been received from students living with disabilities.

Female applicants account for the majority of applications, with 38,121 applications, or 74.06%, compared with 13,353 applications, or 25.94%, from male applicants.

The majority of applications have been received from people between the ages of 18 and 29, which NSFAS said highlighted the continued demand for financial assistance among learners and prospective students moving from secondary education into the post-school education and training sector.

NSFAS spokesperson Ishmael Mnisi said the scheme was encouraged by the level of participation following the opening of the application period.

NSFAS said it had also made significant progress in processing applications received so far.

The application period closes on October 31, 2026, and the NSFAS Board has already communicated that there will be no extension.

“Applicants are also urged to ensure that all required supporting documents are submitted correctly and that consent forms are completed where required to facilitate verification processes,” Mnisi said.

NSFAS said applicants could apply online through its website or use the NSFAS mobile application, which is available on Android and Apple devices.

The scheme said it would continue to provide regular updates on application trends and progress throughout the application period as part of its commitment to transparency and stakeholder engagement.