South Africa
Women account for more than 65% of NSFAS applications─── ZENANDE MPAME 11:29 Wed, 07 Jan 2026
NSFAS has urged students with incomplete or rejected applications to submit outstanding documents or appeals as soon as possible, as the appeal window closes in mid-January.
Nearly 900,000 students have applied for funding for the 2026 academic year. Of these, 609,653 applications have been approved, while 203,731 remain in progress as applicants submit missing documents or await verification.
It was revealed during the media briefing at the GCIS offices in Pretoria on Tuesday (6/1) that 66% of applicants are female, reflecting the ongoing trend of strong female participation in tertiary education. Male applicants accounted for more than 30% of applications.
The financial schemes said it will issue an upfront payment on Sunday, 1 February, covering the full book allowance, one month of meals, accommodation, personal care, and travel allowances. The scheme said it will introduce a robust data-driven reporting and reconciliation process, ensuring clear and timely reconciliation between NSFAS and accommodation providers.
“All funding decisions for 2026 were completed by 31 December,” said NSFAS interim board chairperson Dr Mugwena Maluleke. “This year, private accommodation allowances will be paid directly to accredited providers, who must enter agreements with students.
“This will guarantee prompt payment to providers, thereby encouraging their continued participation in the scheme. The upgraded system will generate monthly occupancy and payment reports directly from the central platform.”
The interim chair also addressed the issue of vacant posts in the scheme, as there are five vacant executive posts, including a CEO.
“We need to ensure that at least we have leadership of the institution, because in the absence of one, we might find ourselves experiencing problems again.”
The scheme has streamlined the appeals process for 2026; the appeals window will open as soon as application outcomes are communicated, with the final deadline for appeals set for Wednesday (14/1).
Immediately lodge appeal
Students are urged to submit all supporting documentation within 30 days of their outcome notification. Outcomes will be communicated by Friday.
“Once students or applicants receive a rejection, they need to immediately go back to the portal and ensure that they lodge their appeal against the decision that was taken,” said Maluleke.
“That particular process takes a period of 30 days, and it is automated. If the 30 days lapse, applicants won’t be able to see the icon or button that deals with the appeals.”
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