The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is one of the most important support systems for South African students who cannot afford tertiary education. Every year, thousands of students apply to NSFAS hoping to receive funding for university or TVET college studies.
However, after submitting your application, it’s crucial to track your NSFAS status to know whether you’ve been approved, rejected, or if your application is still under review.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to check your NSFAS application status for 2026, explain what each status means, and show you how to fix any issues that may arise during the verification process.
Why You Should Check Your NSFAS Application Status Regularly
Many students lose their funding opportunities simply because they failed to follow up on their application. NSFAS communicates primarily through your MyNSFAS account and email, so if you don’t check regularly, you might miss important updates.
Here’s why you should track your status frequently:
To confirm if your application has been successfully received.
To know if additional documents are required.
To get notified when your application is approved or declined.
To take quick action if your application faces a verification issue.
Regularly monitoring your status ensures that you stay informed and avoid missing critical deadlines.
How to Track Your NSFAS Application Status 2026
You can track your NSFAS application through three main methods:
The MyNSFAS online portal (most reliable)
The NSFAS mobile app
Direct contact with NSFAS via call or email
Let’s go step-by-step.
Check via the MyNSFAS Online Portal
This is the official and easiest method.
Step-by-Step Guide:
Visit the official NSFAS website: https://www.nsfas.org.za
Click on the “MyNSFAS” tab at the top-right corner.
Log in using your registered email address and password.
Once logged in, click on “Track Funding Progress” or “Check Application Status”.
You’ll see your current NSFAS application stage displayed on the screen.
✅ Tip: If you forgot your password, click on “Forgot Password” to reset it using your registered email or phone number.
Track Using the NSFAS Mobile App
NSFAS has an official mobile app available on both Android and iOS. It allows you to check your funding status anytime, anywhere.
Steps to Use the App:
Download the “NSFAS” app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
Open the app and sign in using your MyNSFAS login details.
Tap on “Application Status” or “Funding Progress”.
Your real-time status will be displayed.
The mobile app is ideal for quick updates, push notifications, and responding to NSFAS requests instantly.
Contact NSFAS Directly
If you’re having trouble logging in or your status is not updating, you can contact NSFAS directly for assistance.
Contact Channels:
Phone: 0800 067 327
Email: [email protected]
Twitter (X): @myNSFAS
Facebook: NSFAS Official Page
Always include your ID number when contacting NSFAS for faster support.
Understanding Your NSFAS Application Status
Once you check your status, you’ll see one of several messages. Below is what each status means and what you should do.
| NSFAS Status | Meaning | What You Should Do |
|---|---|---|
| Application Submitted | NSFAS has received your application. | Wait for updates or document requests. |
| Filtering | NSFAS is verifying your details (age, citizenship, etc.). | No action needed. |
| Validation | NSFAS is checking your information with Home Affairs or SASSA. | Ensure your ID and names match your records. |
| Evaluation | Your financial and academic eligibility is being reviewed. | Keep checking your portal. |
| Funding Eligibility | You’ve met the basic requirements; waiting for confirmation. | Wait for next status. |
| Awaiting Academic Results/Institution | NSFAS is verifying your admission status. | Ensure your university has confirmed your registration. |
| Approved for Funding | Congratulations! You qualify for NSFAS funding. | Follow instructions for allowance disbursement. |
| Application Unsuccessful | Your application didn’t meet NSFAS requirements. | You can appeal. |
| Provisionally Funded | You’re approved, pending institution confirmation. | Register and confirm your space at the institution. |
How to Fix Common NSFAS Status Issues
Sometimes, your application may get delayed or rejected due to small errors. Here’s how to resolve them quickly:
1. Incorrect Personal Details
If your ID number, names, or date of birth don’t match Home Affairs records, update your MyNSFAS profile immediately.
2. Missing Supporting Documents
Many students forget to upload documents like:
Certified ID copy
Parent/guardian ID
Proof of income or SASSA letter
Academic transcripts
Go to your NSFAS profile, upload the missing documents, and re-submit.
3. Rejected by Institution
If your institution has not confirmed your registration, NSFAS cannot process funding. Contact your school’s financial aid office immediately.
4. Application Unsuccessful
If rejected, NSFAS allows students to appeal.
How to Appeal:
Log in to your MyNSFAS account.
Click on “Track Application Progress”.
If eligible, you’ll see an “Appeal” button — click it.
Provide valid reasons and supporting documents (e.g., proof of household income, updated results).
Submit and wait for confirmation.
Appeal results are usually available within 30 to 45 working days.
Important Tips When Tracking Your NSFAS Status
Always use your official email and ID number used during application.
Do not create multiple NSFAS accounts — it causes confusion.
NSFAS updates statuses in batches, so check weekly.
Enable email or SMS notifications for faster alerts.
Keep your documents and communication records safe in case you need to appeal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How long does NSFAS take to approve applications?
It usually takes 6 to 8 weeks after the application deadline, but it may vary depending on verification delays.
2. My status says “Awaiting Academic Results.” What does that mean?
NSFAS is waiting for your final admission or exam results from your institution before making a funding decision.
3. Can I change my cellphone number or email address?
Yes. Log in to your MyNSFAS account, go to Profile Settings, and update your details.
4. I’ve been funded before; do I need to reapply?
No. Returning students who met academic requirements are automatically reviewed for continuing funding.
5. When will I get confirmation of payment?
Once your status changes to Approved for Funding, your university or NSFAS wallet will confirm payment details shortly after registration.