NSFAS warns students against fake accounts promising funding

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By Danielle Mentoor


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The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has warned applicants against fraudulent social media accounts and unauthorised individuals seeking payment from applicants for assistance with applications, with promises of guaranteed funding.

 

The student financial aid scheme says it does not authorise these platforms, and urges applicants to exercise caution, protect their personal information, and never pay individuals or organisations claiming to facilitate or guarantee an NSFAS application or funding outcome. It further encouraged applicants to consult NSFAS’s official communication platforms for application guidance and updates.

 

“NSFAS applications must be submitted through official platforms, and no one can guarantee a funding outcome. Suspected fraud can be reported anonymously to the NSFAS Fraud and Corruption Hotline at speakup@nsfas.org.za,”

 

Since applications for the 2027 funding cycle opened on 18 September 2026, NSFAS has already received 868 626 applications. According to the latest application dashboard earlier this week, female applicants account for 70.98% of the total applications, while male applicants make up 29.02%.

 

The figures indicate that 800 382 applications are from prospective university students, while 68 244 are from Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college applicants. Of these, 653 778 applicants are South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) beneficiaries, while 214 848 are non-SASSA applicants.

 

“Applicants must ensure that their information is accurate and complete and that all required supporting documentation is submitted.”

 

Students wishing to apply and who have not done so yet are advised that applications close on 31 October 2026, with no extension.

 

 

READ MORE: NSFAS slams misleading post about R630k student payment

Danielle Mentoor
Danielle Mentoor
Danielle is Smile FM's PM drive news reader. She has been in the radio industry since 2020 and started her career at a community radio station. When she's not keeping you up to date with the latest news, she's exploring the outdoors.

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