Female students dominate 2026 NSFAS applications, scheme confirms

By Omphile Mokwena

Acting NSFAS Board Chairperson Mugwena Maluleke

Female students are at the forefront of South Africa’s higher education push, accounting for nearly two-thirds of the record 893 847 applications received by the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) for the 2026 academic year.

Acting NSFAS Board Chairperson Mugwena Maluleke said the scheme had completed all funding decisions by December,31, 2025, ensuring that students can register without delays.

“We received a record 893,847 applications, a testament to the scale and importance of our mission. Of these, 593,981 applications ,66.45%, were submitted by female applicants, reflecting the ongoing trend of strong female participation in tertiary education,” he said.

Maluleke said the scheme wanted students and institutions to know that they are prepared, and that systems were in place.

“Funding decisions have been finalised before the academic year begins. Of the total applications, 609 653 have been approved, while 203 731 are still being processed,” he said.

Maluleke emphasised that early completion of funding decisions allows institutions to access funding-eligible lists ahead of registration. “This early finalisation is deliberate. It ensures that continuing students and first-time entrants can register without unnecessary uncertainty,” he said.

Universities and TVET colleges have been reminded to submit academic results, admission lists, and accurate registration data.

NSFAS confirmed that allowance distribution will continue to be managed by institutions, while accommodation payments for students in private housing will go directly to accredited providers.

To improve oversight and student experience, NSFAS announced a centralised digital framework for managing accommodation.

“We are aligning accommodation management with the academic calendar so that students are not stranded at any point in the year. This is about transparency, accountability, and putting students at the centre,” said Maluleke.

He said NSFAS administrators will be deployed to all universities and TVET colleges from mid-January to the end of March to assist with registration.

“As we welcome the class of 2026, our message is clear. NSFAS remains committed to expanding access to higher education and ensuring that no eligible student is left behind,” Maluleke said.