NSFAS Status Check

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) offers bursaries and loans to eligible students studying at TVET colleges and public universities. However, the eligible students have to apply for this bursary or loan via the NSFAS official portal. If you have applied for this program, then you need to check your NSFAS status online.

This guide will let you know how you can find out your NSFAS application status on the official portal. Also, you will learn the different methods to check the live status. So read this article thoroughly and find out the method to track your NSFAS status in real-time.

National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) 2025

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) plays an essential part in supporting South African students who cannot afford higher education. For the 2025 academic year, NSFAS has allocated a total budget of $2.6 billion to assist learners across the country. Of this amount, approximately $320 million, which is about 15% of the total funding, has been set aside for students enrolled at public universities. 

In addition, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges will receive $41.12 million to help students cover tuition fees, learning materials, and other essential costs. This investment ensures that thousands of young South Africans can access quality education without financial barriers. 

NSFAS funding not only supports academic growth but also promotes skills development, employability, and economic empowerment. By investing in both universities and TVET institutions, NSFAS is helping build a stronger, more skilled workforce for the future of South Africa.

NSFAS Status Check

You can check your NSFAS status with three different methods. These methods are easy, and one method is for those who don’t have access to the internet. So let’s start the guide.

1) NSFAS Status Check with “myNSFAS Portal” Online

This is the first and easiest way to check your NSFAS application status online. Here is what you need to do:

1. Open the official NSFAS website in your browser.
2. Click “myNSFAS” on the top menu.
3. Enter your South African ID number and password.
5. Click “Sign In” to access your dashboard.
6. Select “Track Funding Progress.”
7. Type your ID number and registered phone number.
8. Click “Submit” to load your status.
9. Read the status and any action messages.
10. Save any reference numbers for future use.
11. Log out to protect your account.

2) Check Status on WhatsApp Chat

Here is another way to check your application status. This process involves the WhatsApp chat. You need to do this:

1. Open WhatsApp on your phone.
2. Save the NSFAS WhatsApp number +27 78 519 8006 in your contacts.
3. Start a new chat with this saved number.
4. Type your South African ID number.
5. Enter your application number.
6. Provide your date of birth in the correct format (DD/MM/YYYY).
7. Type your father’s name.
8. Enter your full name as in your application.
9. Send all details together in the chat.
10. Wait for the reply from the NSFAS WhatsApp system with your application status.

3) Check NSFAS Status Without Internet Using USSD Code

1. Open the dial pad on your mobile phone.
2. Dial *120*67327# and press the call button.
3. Wait for the USSD menu to appear on your screen.
4. Read the menu options carefully.
5. Select the option for “myNSFAS Status” by typing the corresponding number.
6. Press Send to confirm your choice.
7. Enter your application number when prompted.
8. Press Send again.
9. The system will display your current NSFAS application status on your screen.

Meanings of NSFAS Application Status

When you check your NSFAS status, you will come across the following application statuses.

• Application Submitted: NSFAS has received your application and will review it soon.
• Filtering: Your personal details and uploaded documents are being checked to confirm you meet the basic criteria.
• Pending: NSFAS is reviewing your academic records and financial details for accuracy.
• Funding Eligibility: Your income and academic results are being assessed to see if you qualify for funding.
• Awaiting Academic Results: NSFAS is waiting for your final marks from your school or college.
• Awaiting Registration: NSFAS is waiting for confirmation from your institution that you have registered.
• Application Approved: Your funding has been granted, and NSFAS will pay according to their schedule.
• Application Declined: Your application did not meet NSFAS funding requirements.
• Application Withdrawn: You or NSFAS cancelled the application before approval.
• Payment in Progress: NSFAS has started transferring funds to your institution or directly to you.

How to Lodge an Appeal for a Declined Application?

If your application has been declined, then you can apply for an appeal. Here is the detailed guide on how to lodge an appeal on the official portal.

1. Visit the Official NSFAS Website: Go to the official NSFAS portal (https://www.nsfas.org.za/) using a device with internet access.
2. Log in to Your myNSFAS Account: Enter your South African ID number and password. Click Sign In to open your account dashboard.
3. Find the Appeal Section: In your dashboard, look for the “Application Status” section. If your application was declined, you will see an “Appeal” option.
4. Click on the Appeal Button: Select the “Submit Appeal” button to open the appeal form.
5. Provide the Required Information: Fill in all requested fields, including your reason for appeal. Be specific and truthful.
6. Upload Supporting Documents: Attach documents that support your appeal, such as updated proof of income, academic results, or official letters.
7. Review Your Appeal: Check all details to ensure they are correct and complete.
8. Submit the Appeal: Click Submit to send your appeal to NSFAS for review.