NSFAS has received nearly 894,000 funding applications for 2026. Of those, 66% came from women, and about 610,000 have already been approved.
Most applicants were first-time students, and over 520,000 are SASSA beneficiaries.
According to NSFAS Chair Dr. Mugwena Maluleke, “All funding decisions for 2026 were completed by 31 December 2025,” with universities already accessing funding lists.
The appeals process is now live and closes on 14 January 2026, with outcomes due by 16 February.
“Students must submit all supporting documentation within 30 days of their outcome notification,” Maluleke emphasized.
On accommodation, NSFAS will continue direct payments to accredited providers and is rolling out a new centralised system that syncs with academic calendars and institutional databases.
Students will be able to apply, accept offers, and log issues via an upgraded portal.
To improve accountability, “monthly remittance returns must be submitted to NSFAS,” and accommodation providers will receive direct payments through a planned in-house function.
Upfront payments for books, meals, and housing will be made on 1 February for universities, while TVET colleges will receive a 20% tuition advance on 31 January. Colleges are required to upload registration data via the myNSFAS Manager Portal and ensure students submit verified bank details.
Colleges must also report all status changes monthly. Maluleke stressed that updates must be timely to “ensure accurate funding administration and prevent incorrect payments or future recoveries.”
