NSFAS extends deadline for outstanding documents to finalise 2026 funding

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has announced that it is still allowing students to submit outstanding documentation to secure funding for the 2026 academic year.

Despite the application window being closed, thousands of students remain in limbo due to incomplete paperwork.

According to the scheme, the processing cycle is currently in full swing with over 600,000 students already approved for funding.

However, a significant number of applications remain in the pipeline; approximately 85,000 applications are currently being processed, while more than 21,000 applicants still need to submit required documents to move forward.

NSFAS clarified that while they are working through the existing backlog, no new applications are being accepted at this stage.

NSFAS spokesperson Ishael Mnisi noted that incomplete submissions remain a primary hurdle in finalising funding for the remaining cohort.

He emphasised the importance of accuracy regarding household information and legal identification to ensure the verification process runs smoothly.

"We want to appeal to students that when they send their consent form, they must make sure that the income data and the other requirements that need parents or guardians are valid," Mnisi stated. "So, they must be able to attach the necessary ID documents, which are verified."

Students are encouraged to log in to their portals immediately to ensure all verified identification and financial records are uploaded to avoid further delays in their funding status.