The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has received 868 626 applications for the next year funding cycle since applications opened on Friday 18 September this year.

Within the first four days of the application window, the scheme received 51 474 applications.

Application breakdown

According to the latest application dashboard earlier this week, female applicants account for 616 558 (70.98%) of the total applications, while male applicants make up 252 068 (29.02%).

Of the applications received, 800 382 are from prospective university students, while 68 244 are from Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college applicants.

The figures also show that 653 778 applicants are South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) beneficiaries, while 214 848 are non-SASSA applicants.

Closing date and how to apply

NSFAS has thanked prospective students who have submitted their applications and reminded those who have not yet applied that the closing date is 31 October this year, with no extensions.

Applications can be submitted through the NSFAS website at www.nsfas.org.za or via the NSFAS mobile application.

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“Applicants must ensure that their information is accurate and complete and that all required supporting documentation is submitted,” NSFAS said in a statement.

Fraud warning

NSFAS has also warned applicants against fraudulent social media accounts and unauthorised individuals who demand payment for application assistance or promise guaranteed funding.

“These accounts and individuals are not authorised by NSFAS, and applicants are urged to exercise caution, protect their personal information, and never pay individuals or organisations claiming to facilitate or guarantee an NSFAS application or funding outcome.

“NSFAS applications must be submitted through official platforms, and no one can guarantee a funding outcome. Suspected fraud can be reported anonymously to the NSFAS Fraud and Corruption Hotline at speakup@nsfas.org.za,” NSFAS said.

Prospective students are encouraged to consult NSFAS’s official communication platforms for application guidance and updates.