University of South Africa UNISA Bursaries and Loans 2025-2026
University of South Africa Student Funding – Bursaries & Loans
UNISA NSFAS Bursary
If you are considering applying for NSFAS funding for your studies at Unisa, here are some key points to keep in mind:
NSFAS Application Process
Website: Apply via the NSFAS website at my.nsfas.org.za.
Ineligibility Criteria: You cannot apply if:
You received NSFAS funding in the previous academic year.
You have completed an undergraduate degree or diploma.
You are not a South African citizen.
You need funding for a short learning program or postgraduate qualification.
2025-2026 Registration
Registration Website: Visit www.unisa.ac.za/register for registration dates.
Returning NSFAS Students (Funded in the previous academic year): Temporarily register during Unisa’s registration period while awaiting NSFAS confirmation for 2025-2026.
Declined NSFAS Funding: If declined for 2025-2026 but have appealed, pay the minimum registration fee while awaiting the appeal decision.
First-Time NSFAS Applicants: Temporarily register during Unisa’s registration period while awaiting NSFAS funding confirmation. Find alternative funding if NSFAS application is declined or delayed by the registration deadline.
Provisional NSFAS Approval: No need to pay the minimum registration fee; registration will be activated upon NSFAS confirmation.
2025-2026 Appeals
Appeal Period: Open from January 20 to February 20.
Appeal Process: Appeal directly to NSFAS via the myNSFAS portal.
Supporting Documents: Visit www.nsfas.org.za for information on required documents.
Refunds
Eligibility for Refunds: NSFAS-funded students who pay the minimum registration amount will be refunded.
Processing: Refund processed once NSFAS confirms registration data to Unisa. No need to apply for a refund.
NSFAS Bursaries
Renewal Requirement: Students under specific bursaries must renew their funding annually.
Bursary Websites for Application Dates:
Funza Lushaka: www.funzalushaka.doe.gov.za
Department of Military Veterans (DMV): www.dmv.gov.za
Department of Justice (TRC): www.justice.gov.za
It’s essential to closely follow the guidelines and deadlines provided to ensure your application and registration processes go smoothly. Remember to check the respective websites for the most current and detailed information.
Unisa Merit Bursary
Academic Requirements: Students must have achieved a minimum average of 75% in their last year of study.
Applicant Eligibility: This bursary is exclusively for South African citizens enrolled in a formal program across any field of study at Unisa.
Scope of the Bursary: The bursary will cover tuition fees and the cost of prescribed textbooks.
Funding Availability: Bursary awards are contingent on the availability of sufficient funds.
Continued Eligibility for Prior Recipients (the previous academic year): Beneficiaries from the previous academic year do not need to reapply but must maintain a 75% average to qualify for the 2025-2026 bursary.
Required Documentation for Application
To apply for the merit bursary, candidates must submit the following documents:
- Identification: A copy of your South African ID.
- Proof of Income: Documents evidencing your household’s income.
- Parental Identification: For dependent candidates, copies of parents’ IDs are required.
- Academic Achievements: Your academic transcript confirming your achievement of the 75% average.
For comprehensive guidelines about the merit bursary, please refer to [insert link to merit bursary guidelines]. Ensure all necessary documents are prepared for your application. Keep up-to-date with application timelines and further information through Unisa’s official channels.
UNISA Postgraduate Bursaries
We are excited to inform you that the application period for the 2025-2026 UNISA Postgraduate Bursaries will open from 13th November to 13th January. This opportunity is available for all postgraduate programs, including PG Diplomas, Honours, Masters, and Doctoral degrees.
Objective: The primary goal is to financially assist postgraduate students, thereby aiding UNISA in fostering a thriving academic community and producing high-quality research.
Upcoming Q&A Sessions:
- 2025-2026 Honours Bursaries Q&A:
- Date: 6th November.
- Time: 10:00 AM South African Time
- Platform: Microsoft Teams
- Focus: Insights into the application, awarding, and refund processes for Honours Bursaries.
- Access: [Direct Link to Honours Bursaries Q&A Session]
- 2025-2026 Masters and Doctoral Bursaries Q&A:
- Date: 7th November.
- Time: 10:00 AM South African Time
- Platform: Microsoft Teams
- Focus: Detailed information on Masters and Doctoral Bursary application and awarding procedures.
- Access: [Direct Link to Masters & Doctoral Bursaries Q&A Session]
Notice for 2025-2026 Approved & Awarded Students:
- Refunds and Allowances: Processing is ongoing. Please ensure that all necessary documents have been duly submitted.
- Account Settlement & Bursary Processing: Be advised that no student accounts will be settled, nor will any bursary refunds/allowances be processed until all Bursary contracts are submitted, received, and processed.
Stay informed and prepared to take full advantage of these opportunities. For further information, regularly check UNISA’s official communication channels.
