More than 6,000 NSFAS applications are still awaiting verification, and 26,972 applicants still have outstanding documentation.
Almost 700,000 students have been approved for funding by the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) for the 2026 academic year. As per the latest update of the scheme, more than 132,000 applications have been rejected.
NSFAS released its applications, appeals, accommodations and disbursement updates on Thursday. The scheme said it has processed a record number of applications as demand for financial assistance in higher education continues to grow.
The scheme states that 692 704 first-time entry students have been approved for funding, along with 550 959 continuing students. This reflects the scale of financial aid support across South Africa.
However, 132,069 applications were rejected, while 6,144 applications are awaiting verification. Moreover, 26,972 applicants still have outstanding documents.
“NSFAS was established to transform access to higher education and training for South African youth,” said Dr Mugwena Maluleke, Chair of the NSFAS Board.
“Our mission is clear: to ensure that no deserving student is denied the opportunity to pursue their studies simply because of financial constraints.”
Billions of rupees have already been distributed for allowances
The plan says it has already distributed billions of rands to support studentsUniversities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Colleges. This happens when the academic year is going on.
For universities, NSFAS made two major advance payments covering allowances and accommodation.
“On 2 February 2026, NSFAS disbursed R3 557 285 045 to cover allowances and accommodation,” the plan states.
A second payment of R2 824 849 085 was due on 2 March 2026.
In TVET colleges, Nsfas paid out R679 079 050 on 2 February to cover tuition fees.
Further payments included R145 457 290 to 51 130 students on 13 February. In addition, R446 590 368 was paid to 138 115 students on 27 February for allowances including transport and accommodation.
Maluleke said, “These investments are not just numbers; they represent our commitment to removing financial barriers and creating an enabling environment for academic success.”
Also read: Student organizations will work closely with NSFAS
Registration data and student accommodation
NSFAS said it has already received registration data from thousands of students from institutions.
“Registration data has been received for 174 962 TVET students and 54 280 university students across South Africa,” the plan said.
The scheme said 224 983 students had applied for accommodation funding. Meanwhile, 148825 students and accommodation providers had already submitted signed lease agreements confirming accommodation arrangements for the year.
However, Nsfas urged students who have not yet submitted leases to avoid delays.
“Failure to do so may result in delays or complications in the allotment of housing and related allowances,” the plan warns.
Reconsideration of appeal and funding
NSFAS also reported handling 101,201 appeals from students who were rejected or failed to meet the academic or financial eligibility criteria.
Of these appeals, 22 654 were approved, 18 108 were rejected, while 9 073 are awaiting supporting documents.
Also read: NSFAS blames institutions and accommodation providers for students sleeping on the street
The plan states that appeals may be allowed in cases involving medical conditions, traumatic events or a demonstrated likelihood of meeting qualifications.
“The appeals process is designed to be fair, accessible and responsive,” NSFAS said.
Students were encouraged to submit outstanding documents promptly to avoid delays in funding decisions.
Registration portal is closing soon
NSFAS said most of the operational milestones for the 2026 academic year have already been met. Furthermore, the registration portal is scheduled to close on March 31, 2026.
“Ultimately, NSFAS stands as a pillar of opportunity, equality and progress in South Africa,” Maluleke said.
“Our work is not just about administration; it is about change.”
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