NSFAS passes 1 million applications as Saturday's deadline arrives
South Africa's student aid scheme says there will be no extension. Here's how to finish your application in time.
Olanrewaju Adewole
Johannesburg — South Africa's National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has received more than one million applications for 2027 funding, and applications close on Saturday, 31 October. NSFAS says there will be no extensions.
How to apply before the deadline
- Apply on the official NSFAS website or through the NSFAS mobile app.
- If you need to send supporting documents, upload them through the official NSFAS application platform.
- Check every detail: missing documents, incomplete information or wrong details can hold up verification.
- Don't leave it to the last minute. NSFAS is urging applicants to submit early to avoid problems on the final day.
The NSFAS board is taking part in a "final push" outreach drive to help students get their applications in.
Source: eNCA, 29 October 2026.
