The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has confirmed that it has processed all 2026 funding applications ahead of the start of the academic year.
A total of 893,847 applications were received from first-time entering students, of which 609,403 qualified for financial aid, 49,538 were rejected, 218,043 remain incomplete due to missing documents, and 16,863 were withdrawn or cancelled.
The scheme has faced criticism in recent years for delays, mismanagement, and administrative errors. In response, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana has proposed abolishing NSFAS and directing student funding straight to universities and colleges, a move that has been welcomed by ActionSA.
The party said the approach could finally end the corruption, chaos, and chronic mismanagement that have long plagued student funding, ensuring that money reaches students faster and more reliably.
NSFAS explained that some first-time applicants who meet the financial eligibility criteria may still require confirmation of acceptance from a higher education institution, which in many cases will only be available after matric results are released. Applications listed as “in process” or “incomplete” are those awaiting essential documents.
“These applications are returned for further evaluation once applicants have submitted the required information,” the scheme said.
Students have been notified, sometimes multiple times, specifying which documents are missing. According to NSFAS, “the outstanding documentation primarily includes the parental consent form, which enables household income verification, as well as complete parent or guardian details submitted through a correctly completed and signed NSFAS Declaration Form.”
The scheme reminded applicants that they have 30 days from the date of notification to submit the required documents, warning that “applications that remain incomplete after this period will not be processed and will be deemed unsuccessful.”
For continuing students, 416,688 previously funded university students who met academic progression requirements have been approved to continue receiving financial aid, while 129,264 did not meet the criteria. In total, 545,952 university students have been assessed, with TVET college results expected on 13 January 2026.
Rejected applicants, whether first-time entrants or continuing students, may appeal funding decisions. NSFAS said the appeals process has been refined to ensure fairness and efficiency.
“The appeals window is open, and outcomes will be communicated on an ongoing basis,” the scheme said. It stressed that “students are strongly encouraged to prepare all relevant documents in advance and to adhere strictly to the prescribed deadlines, to ensure their appeals are considered in a timely manner and without unnecessary delay.”
NSFAS also confirmed that most outstanding claims to higher education institutions and accommodation providers for 2025 have been settled. Where short payments remain, the scheme said it is working with providers to resolve the issues through the appropriate channels.
Turning to the 2025 matric class, NSFAS extended its best wishes to the 2025 matric class awaiting results, describing the moment as one of “anticipation and hope” after years of perseverance. The scheme reaffirmed its commitment to supporting students as they transition into higher education and training.
The Star
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