The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a vital lifeline for many South African students from low-income households, providing financial assistance to help them pursue higher education. For students applying in 2025, regular NSFAS status checks are essential for making informed decisions about their academic future and ensuring a smooth process throughout the application stages.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of checking your NSFAS status online and explain the meaning of different status codes, so you can stay on top of your application’s progress.
Steps to NSFAS Status Check Online
Checking your NSFAS status is a simple process, and following these steps will help you stay informed about the progress of your application.
Step 1: Visit the NSFAS Website
Start by navigating to the official NSFAS website at www.nsfas.org.za. On the homepage, look for the “myNSFAS Student Portal” tab, located in the top right corner. It will be highlighted in bright orange.
Step 2: Log in to Your myNSFAS Account
If you already have a myNSFAS account, simply log in using your ID number and password. If you’re a new user, click on “Create Account” and complete the registration process. You’ll need your South African ID number, a valid email address, and a secure password to set up your account.
Step 3: Select “View Applications”
Once logged in, navigate to your dashboard. From there, click on the “Check Your Application Status” button to view the current status of your NSFAS application.
Step 4: Check Your NSFAS Status
Your application status will be displayed on the screen, indicating one of the following outcomes:
Approved: Your application has been approved, and you can proceed with registration at your chosen institution.
Declined: Your application was unsuccessful, meaning you did not meet the NSFAS funding requirements.
Step 5: Follow Up on Your Application (If Necessary)
If your application is declined, you can contact NSFAS to inquire about the specific reasons for rejection. If you believe the rejection was unjust, you may be able to appeal the decision.
Understanding NSFAS Status Codes
Each NSFAS status code provides important information about where your application is in the process. Here are the most common status codes you may encounter:
Application Submitted: Your application has been successfully received and logged into the system.
Filtering: NSFAS is verifying whether you meet the basic eligibility criteria for funding.
Validation: Your personal details are being verified with external organizations like SASSA and the Department of Home Affairs.
Evaluation: NSFAS is reviewing the supporting documents you submitted as part of your application.
Funding Eligibility: Your household’s financial information is being reviewed to determine your eligibility for funding.
Awaiting Academic Results/Admission: NSFAS is waiting to verify your academic and admission status.
Awaiting Registration: NSFAS is waiting for your institution to confirm your registration.
Agreement Signing: You must sign your bursary agreement before NSFAS can disburse funding.
Knowing these stages helps you track your application’s progress and respond quickly to any requests for additional information.
Appealing a Declined NSFAS Application: Eligibility and Requirements
If your NSFAS application is declined, you may have the option to appeal, depending on the situation. Below is a breakdown of who can and cannot appeal a declined application.
Who Can Appeal?
Missing Documentation: If your application was declined due to missing documents or minor errors, you may be eligible to appeal.
Criteria Discrepancies: If there were discrepancies in the criteria, an appeal might be possible.
Appeals are subject to available funds, and NSFAS may not have additional funding for the year even if your appeal is valid.
Who Cannot Appeal?
Qualifications Not Covered by NSFAS: NSFAS only funds specific undergraduate courses at public universities and TVET colleges. If your qualification is not eligible for NSFAS funding, an appeal is not accepted.
Exceeded the N+ Rule: NSFAS funds students for the standard duration of their program plus an additional 2 years (N+2). Students with disabilities are allowed an extra year (N+3). If you exceed this period, you are not eligible for an appeal.
Academic Performance Below Standard: If you were previously funded by NSFAS but failed to meet the required academic standards, your funding may be withdrawn. Appeals are generally not allowed unless extenuating circumstances affected your performance.
Issues with Registration Records: Sometimes, errors or delays in your institution’s registration records can affect your funding. NSFAS cannot process your application without accurate data, and these issues are not eligible for appeal. In such cases, contact your institution to resolve the matter.
NSFAS Contact Information
If you encounter any issues with your application status or need assistance, NSFAS can be reached through several communication channels:
Toll-Free Number: 08000 67327
Email: info@nsfas.org.za
Facebook: National Student Financial Aid Scheme
Twitter: @myNSFAS
Instagram: @myNSFAS
WhatsApp: +27 78 519 8006
NSFAS funding can support various fields of study. Consider pursuing careers in high-demand sectors such as technology, healthcare, engineering, and finance, which offer strong job prospects for graduates.
Related: NSFAS Appeal Status Check
Staying updated on the status of your NSFAS application is crucial for students relying on financial aid. By regularly checking your NSFAS status, you can respond promptly to any requests and stay informed about the progress of your application. Whether your application is approved, declined, or pending further steps, knowing your status helps you plan your academic journey with confidence. Don’t hesitate to reach out to NSFAS if you have any questions or need guidance throughout the process.
