South African students hoping to secure government funding for the 2027 academic year have just days left to submit their applications, with the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) set to close its application window on Saturday, 31 October 2026.

Higher Education Minister Buti Manamela has urged prospective students, particularly Grade 12 learners preparing to leave school, not to wait until the final hours to apply.The deadline comes as application numbers continue to climb. NSFAS had received more than 868,000 applications by 19 October, highlighting the scale of demand for financial assistance among students planning to enter higher education.

Grade 12 learners preparing for their next step in education. Image: Supplied (for illustrative purposes).

More than 800,000 applications came from prospective university students, while just over 68,000 were submitted by those intending to study at technical and vocational education and training (TVET) colleges.The figures also show that more than 653,000 applicants are beneficiaries of the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA), underlining the importance of financial support for students from qualifying households.

However, submitting an application is only part of the process. Applicants are being urged to check that their personal information is accurate and that all required supporting documents have been provided before the deadline.

There is also a warning about scams targeting students anxious to secure funding. NSFAS has cautioned applicants against individuals and social media accounts demanding payment to assist with applications or claiming they can guarantee financial support. The scheme has stressed that applying is free and that no person or organisation can guarantee approval.

Image: Supplied (for illustrative purposes).

With the closing date approaching, students who have not yet applied are being urged to use the remaining time carefully rather than risk leaving the process until the last minute.

For many prospective students, this deadline represents an important step towards accessing higher education. Missing it could leave them facing uncertainty as they prepare for the 2027 academic year.