Checking Your NSFAS Application Status - A How-To Guide

Submitting an NSFAS application is only the beginning. Once it is in, the next task is knowing what to do while you wait and knowing what to do when a status update appears. 

Here is a guide to checking your NSFAS status, understanding what each message means and taking the right action at each stage.

The quickest way to check: the myNSFAS portal

The myNSFAS portal at my.nsfas.org.za is the most complete way to check an application. It shows the current status, any outstanding document requests and outcome information once a decision has been made.

To check, log in with a South African ID number and the password created during registration, then select "Track Funding Progress" from the dashboard. The portal updates in real time, so it is worth checking regularly rather than waiting for a notification.

If a password has been forgotten, it can be reset on the login page. If an account cannot be accessed at all, NSFAS can be contacted directly using the details at the end of this article.

No data? No problem

Not everyone has consistent internet access, and NSFAS has options for that. Dialling 12067327# from any mobile phone allows a status check without using data. It works on all networks and is free to dial.

NSFAS also sends status updates by SMS and email when the application moves through key stages. Keeping contact details up to date on the myNSFAS portal means these notifications will come through reliably.

For general queries, NSFAS can also be reached via WhatsApp at +27 63 093 5671.

What the status messages mean

Once logged in, the application will show one of the following statuses. Each one requires a different response.

Application Submitted means NSFAS has received the application. At this stage, it is worth double-checking that all documents were uploaded correctly.

Under Review means NSFAS is actively assessing the application. No action is needed at this point.

Incomplete or a request for outstanding documents means NSFAS needs additional information before it can proceed. This is one of the most important statuses to act on quickly. Applicants have 30 days from the date of notification to upload the requested documents through the myNSFAS portal. Missing that window means the application will not be processed further.

The most commonly requested documents include a signed parental consent form, proof of household income and a completed NSFAS Declaration Form. These can be uploaded directly through the portal once logged in.

Qualifying for Financial Aid or Eligible for a Bursary means the financial eligibility check has been passed. For first-time students, this is confirmed once a valid acceptance from an institution is in place. Registration at the institution can then proceed, and NSFAS-funded students do not pay registration fees.

Rejected means the application did not meet the eligibility criteria. This is not necessarily final. Students have 30 days from the outcome notification to submit a formal appeal through the myNSFAS portal, along with any supporting documents that address the reason for rejection. The appeal must be submitted and supported within that window.

Did Not Meet Academic Progression Criteria applies to continuing students who are reassessed each year. An appeal is also available for this outcome, again within 30 days.

What happens after approval

For university students, once a funding eligibility status is confirmed and a university acceptance is in place, registration can proceed. Allowances for accommodation, meals, transport and learning materials are applied for through the institution after registration. The institution determines which allowances apply based on individual circumstances.

For TVET college students, the process is similar. Once placement at a college is confirmed and registration is done, banking details need to be captured directly on the myNSFAS student portal so that allowances can be paid.

How to contact NSFAS directly

If a status has not changed after a long period, or if there is a specific issue that the portal cannot resolve, NSFAS can be contacted through the following official channels:

• Toll-free number: 08000 67327

• Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

• WhatsApp: +27 63 093 5671

• USSD: 12067327#

One important caution: NSFAS will never ask for a password or banking details over the phone or via WhatsApp. Anyone making that request is not NSFAS. Suspicious contact can be reported to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Stay on top of it

A NSFAS application is not something to submit and forget. Statuses change, documents get requested, and deadlines for responses are strict. Checking the myNSFAS portal at least once a week during the application and funding period is the simplest way to make sure nothing slips through.

For more information, visit www.fundiconnect.co.za. You can also follow FundiConnect on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.