NSFAS opens 2027 funding applications and warns of misinformation

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has officially opened applications for the 2027 academic year, with a submission deadline of 31 October 2026. Higher Education and Training Minister Buti Manamela announced that new measures have been implemented to streamline the process, including automated document verification, electronic signing, and the direct extraction of student data from institutional systems. To enhance security, NSFAS will cooperate with the Department of Home Affairs to verify registration and banking details.

In conjunction with the application launch, NSFAS issued an urgent warning regarding misinformation circulating on social media. The scheme cautioned students and parents against unverified claims regarding early registration, altered funding terms, or unofficial schedules. Officials noted that these false reports often serve as fronts for phishing attempts and fraud intended to steal sensitive personal information.

Minister Manamela emphasized that applying for NSFAS does not guarantee admission to an institution and reminded students that applications are free. He urged prospective applicants to submit early to allow time for information verification and to avoid paying third parties to submit applications on their behalf.