How to check your NSFAS funding status after the 2025 NSC results

As thousands of learners prepare to transition to universities and Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges in 2026, NSFAS has issued an urgent advisory for first-time students eligible for funding, following the release of the 2025 National Senior Certificate (NSC) results.

NSFAS urged all applicants to immediately verify their funding status via the NSFAS student portal.

“All students who applied for NSFAS funding must log in to the NSFAS student portal to check the status of their application,” the scheme said.

Students whose status reflects “Eligible for a bursary” have been approved for funding and may proceed with registration at the institution where they have been accepted.

However, the scheme cautioned that not all applications have been finalised.

“NSFAS is still processing outstanding documents and appeals. Application statuses may change as this process continues.” 

Universities are expected to release admission offers between January 13 and 16, 2026. NSFAS confirmed that funded students who receive offers will not be required to pay registration fees, provided they comply with institutional requirements.

“NSFAS-funded students do not pay registration fees,” the scheme said, adding that students must still meet their institution’s registration deadlines and procedures.

The same applies to TVET colleges, where registration and enrolment processes are already underway.

NSFAS encouraged students who were not accepted at universities to consider TVET colleges as an alternative pathway into post-school education.

“Students who were not accepted at a university but qualify for NSFAS funding are encouraged to consider TVET Colleges, which offer a wide range of accredited programmes,” NSFAS said.

NSFAS funding covers approved study-related costs, including tuition fees, accredited accommodation or transport, learning materials for university students and living allowances.

The scheme noted that the final funding package will only be confirmed once registration details have been submitted by institutions.

“NSFAS eligible students have to apply for allowances at the institution, and the institution makes the determination whether you qualify for accommodation or transport,” the scheme said.

NSFAS also announced that loan outcomes will be released by the end of the week of 16 January 2026.

Students were urged to rely only on official NSFAS communication channels and to remain alert to scams.

“NSFAS will never request your password or banking details,” the scheme warned.

NSFAS reaffirmed its commitment to supporting students as they enter post-school education.

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