The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is one of South Africa’s most important government funding initiatives for students pursuing higher education. Every year, thousands of students rely on NSFAS for tuition, accommodation, and study material support.
To apply for, check the status of, or manage your funding, you must use the NSFAS Login portal — also known as the MyNSFAS Account.
In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about NSFAS Login, including how to create an account, reset your password, troubleshoot login issues, and manage your funding effectively in 2026.
What Is NSFAS?
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a South African government initiative under the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET). It was established to provide financial assistance to students from poor and working-class families who wish to study at public universities or TVET colleges in South Africa.
NSFAS covers:
Tuition fees
Registration fees
Accommodation costs
Transport and living allowances
Book and study material allowances
With the introduction of the MyNSFAS portal, students can now manage their funding online with ease.
What Is the NSFAS Login Portal (MyNSFAS Account)?
The MyNSFAS portal is the official online platform that allows students to apply for NSFAS funding, check application status, update personal details, and view payment information.
It’s available at 👉 www.nsfas.org.za.
Main Functions of the MyNSFAS Portal
Once you log in, you can:
Apply for NSFAS funding
Track your application status
Update your personal details (email, phone number, ID)
Upload supporting documents
View your NSFAS wallet or payment details
Check disbursement and allowance history
How to Create a MyNSFAS Account (First-Time Users)
Before you can log in, you must create an NSFAS account. Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Visit the Official Website
Go to the official NSFAS website — www.nsfas.org.za.
Click on the “myNSFAS” tab at the top right corner of the homepage.
Step 2: Select “Register”
If you are a new user, click “Register” to begin your account setup.
Step 3: Provide Your Personal Information
You will be required to fill in:
Your ID number
First name and surname (as per your ID)
Email address
Cellphone number
Create a strong password
Step 4: Accept Terms and Conditions
Tick the box to accept NSFAS’s terms and conditions before proceeding.
Step 5: Verify Your Email and Phone Number
You will receive a One-Time Pin (OTP) sent to your phone and email. Enter the code to verify your account.
Once completed, your MyNSFAS account will be successfully created.
How to Login to Your MyNSFAS Account (Returning Users)
Once your account is created, logging in is very simple.
Step 1: Go to the NSFAS Login Page
Visit www.nsfas.org.za and click “myNSFAS” or directly visit https://my.nsfas.org.za/.
Step 2: Enter Your Credentials
Input your email address and password you created during registration.
Step 3: Click “Login”
Once logged in, you’ll have full access to your NSFAS account dashboard.
From here, you can manage your application, update your details, or check your funding status.
How to Reset Your NSFAS Password
If you’ve forgotten your password or cannot access your account, don’t panic. You can easily reset your MyNSFAS password by following these steps:
Go to https://my.nsfas.org.za/
Click on “Forgot your password?”
Enter your ID number and click Submit
You’ll receive an OTP (One-Time Pin) via SMS or email
Enter the OTP and create a new password
Once completed, you can log in using your new password.
How to Check Your NSFAS Application Status 2026
One of the most common reasons students log into their NSFAS account is to check their application status. Here’s how:
Visit https://my.nsfas.org.za/
Log into your account with your credentials
Click “Track Funding Progress”
You’ll see your current application stage. The possible NSFAS status messages include:
Application Submitted
Awaiting Evaluation
Application in Progress
Provisionally Funded
Approved for Funding
Not Funded
NSFAS Login Problems and Solutions
Many students face login challenges, especially during peak application periods. Below are common issues and how to fix them.
1. Forgotten Password
✅ Solution: Use the “Forgot Password” option on the login page and follow the reset steps.
2. Incorrect Login Details
✅ Solution: Double-check your email and password. Remember that passwords are case-sensitive.
3. Locked Account
✅ Solution: Wait a few minutes and try again or reset your password.
4. Website Not Loading
✅ Solution: Try logging in during off-peak hours or use another browser/device. The site may be under maintenance due to high traffic.
5. Verification Code Not Received
✅ Solution: Check your spam folder or request a resend. Make sure your phone number and email are correct in your profile.
MyNSFAS Wallet Login and Allowances
If you receive your allowance directly from NSFAS, you’ll use the NSFAS Wallet.
How to Access Your NSFAS Wallet
Log in using your cellphone number and password
View your wallet balance, transaction history, or make withdrawals
Alternatively, you can dial the USSD code *134*176# on your registered number to manage your wallet.
Important NSFAS Login Tips for 2026
Here are some security and usage tips every NSFAS beneficiary should follow:
Use a strong password with a mix of numbers, letters, and symbols.
Avoid using public Wi-Fi when logging in to your account.
Update your contact information regularly to receive notifications.
Log out after every session, especially when using a shared device.
Check your account frequently to track funding and avoid missed deadlines.
When Is the NSFAS 2026 Application Deadline?
For the 2026 academic year, NSFAS applications typically open in September and close in January. However, students are advised to apply early to avoid system overload or missing deadlines.
All applications are submitted online through the MyNSFAS portal, so maintaining access to your login is essential.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What do I do if I can’t log into my NSFAS account?
Try resetting your password or clearing your browser cache. If the problem persists, contact NSFAS support via 08000 67327 or email [email protected].
2. Can I apply for NSFAS without logging in?
No. You must create and log into your MyNSFAS account to submit your application.
3. What if I changed my phone number or email?
Log into your account and update your details under “My Profile.” If you cannot log in, contact NSFAS support for assistance.
4. How do I know if NSFAS approved my application?
You’ll receive an SMS or email notification once your application is processed. You can also check your funding status under “Track Funding Progress.”
5. Is the NSFAS portal open 24/7?
Yes. You can log in and access your MyNSFAS account at any time — though the website may experience downtime during high traffic periods.