Getting in and getting funded are two different applications.

You apply to the institution for a place. You apply to NSFAS separately for the money. One does not do the other. Every year learners are accepted and then cannot register because nobody told them to apply for funding as well, and learners get funding approved for a place they never applied for. Do both. They have different deadlines and different portals.

The deadlines are different. TVET college applications for 2027 close on 30 September 2026. NSFAS applications for 2027 close on 18 November 2026. Apply to study first — you can apply for funding before you have been accepted.

Step 1 — Apply to study

Where you apply

Universities: through each university's own online portal. Most KwaZulu-Natal institutions apply through the Central Applications Office (CAO).
TVET colleges: directly to the college you want to attend.
Private colleges: directly to the institution.

What you need

Your ID document or birth certificate
Your most recent results
An application fee at some institutions. Others are free. Check before you assume.

Worth knowing

You can apply using your previous year's results. You do not have to wait for your final matric results to start.

Source: Department of Higher Education and Training, 10 September 2026

Step 2 — Apply for funding

Where you apply

NSFAS, through the myNSFAS portal at nsfas.org.za

What you need

Copy of your ID or birth certificate
Copy of your parent's, guardian's or spouse's ID
Smart card IDs: both sides required
Proof of income, where applicable
Disability Annexure A form, if you have a registered disability
A signed NSFAS consent form
An email address and a cell phone number

Worth knowing

If you receive a SASSA grant, you do not need to submit proof of income — SASSA recipients automatically meet the financial eligibility requirement.

Source: NSFAS, September 2026

VUKA is independent and is not affiliated with or endorsed by NSFAS, DHET or any government body. We cannot secure or influence funding.