- NSFAS has finalised all 2026 applications by the 31 December deadline, with results now available for all students on the digital portal.
- Over 218,000 applicants face a strict 30-day deadline to submit outstanding documentation or risk the forfeiture of their financial aid.
- Final funding remains contingent on university placement and the release of matriculation results, scheduled for 12 January 2026.
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has processed all 2026 funding applications, meeting its year-end deadline. Students are urged to check their status via the online portal immediately.
Key application figures
The scheme has assessed nearly 1.5 million applications across new and returning students:
| Status | First-Time Students | Continuing Students |
| Approved | 609,403 | 416,688 |
| Rejected | 49,538 | 129,264 |
| Incomplete | 218,043 | Pending (TVET) |
Note: TVET college results are due on 13 January 2026, after which further assessments for returning students will be finalised.
Critical deadlines and appeals
- Missing Documents: Over 218,000 applicants must submit outstanding paperwork (primarily parental consent forms) within 30 days of notification or face automatic rejection.
- Appeals: Students rejected for funding have a strict 30-day window to lodge an appeal with all necessary supporting evidence.
- Final Approval: For new students, funding remains contingent on confirmed university placement following the release of matric results on 12 January.
Payments and arrears
NSFAS confirmed it has cleared the majority of outstanding claims to universities and accommodation providers.
Any providers with remaining “short payments” are encouraged to submit claims through official channels for prompt resolution.
The scheme concluded by wishing the Matric Class of 2025 well ahead of their results release next Monday.
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