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NSFAS Documents Required – How to Submit Required Documents Correctly

NSFAS is asking for additional documents. Learn which documents you need, how to submit them correctly, and what to do if your documents are rejected.

Note: This is an information guide. BestBrainz is not affiliated with NSFAS. Submit documents through your official myNSFAS account at www.nsfas.org.za.

If NSFAS has requested additional documents, it means your application needs more information to proceed. This is common and usually easy to resolve if you know what documents are needed and how to submit them correctly.

Why NSFAS Requests Documents

NSFAS may request additional documents to:

  • Verify your identity
  • Confirm household income
  • Validate your academic qualifications
  • Confirm your relationship to parents or guardians
  • Verify your institution registration

Common Documents NSFAS Requests

1. Identity Documents

  • South African ID: Clear copy of both sides
  • Birth Certificate: If you don't have an ID
  • Passport: For non-South African citizens (if applicable)

2. Proof of Income

  • Salary slips: Last 3 months for all employed household members
  • Bank statements: Last 3 months
  • Pension statements: If applicable
  • Unemployment declaration: If unemployed
  • Death certificate: If parent/guardian is deceased

3. Academic Documents

  • Matric certificate: Or latest academic results
  • Previous qualification certificates: If applicable
  • Academic transcripts: For continuing students

4. Relationship Documents

  • Marriage certificate: For married parents
  • Divorce certificate: If parents are divorced
  • Affidavit: For guardianship or relationship proof

5. Institution Documents

  • Registration letter: From your institution
  • Proof of registration: Confirmation from your university/college

How to Submit Documents

Step 1: Log In to myNSFAS

  1. Visit www.nsfas.org.za
  2. Log in to your myNSFAS account
  3. Navigate to "My Applications"
  4. Click on "Upload Documents" or "Required Documents"

Step 2: Prepare Your Documents

Before uploading, ensure:

  • Documents are clear and readable
  • All text is visible (not cut off)
  • Documents are in PDF or JPG format
  • File size is under 5MB per document
  • Documents are not expired (for IDs)

Step 3: Upload Documents

  1. Select the document type from the dropdown
  2. Click "Choose File" or "Browse"
  3. Select your document file
  4. Click "Upload"
  5. Wait for confirmation that upload was successful
  6. Repeat for all required documents

Document Upload Tips

Image Quality

  • Use good lighting when photographing documents
  • Ensure the document is flat and not wrinkled
  • Avoid shadows or glare
  • Make sure all corners are visible

File Format

  • Preferred formats: PDF or JPG
  • PDF is best for multi-page documents
  • JPG works well for single-page documents
  • Avoid PNG or other formats unless specified

File Naming

  • Use clear, descriptive names
  • Example: "ID_Front_2024.pdf" or "Salary_Slip_Jan_2024.pdf"
  • Avoid special characters or spaces

What If Documents Are Rejected?

If NSFAS rejects your documents, common reasons include:

1. Unclear or Blurry

Solution: Take a new, clear photo or scan at higher resolution.

2. Wrong Document Type

Solution: Ensure you're uploading the correct document for the requested category.

3. Expired Document

Solution: Submit a current, valid document (especially for IDs).

4. Incomplete Document

Solution: Ensure all pages are included (for multi-page documents).

5. Wrong Format

Solution: Convert to PDF or JPG format before uploading.

Timeframe for Document Submission

NSFAS typically gives you:

  • Initial request: 30 days to submit
  • If rejected: Usually 14 days to resubmit

Important: Submit documents as soon as possible. Delays in document submission can cause your application to remain pending for longer.

Checking Document Status

After uploading documents:

  1. Log in to your myNSFAS account
  2. Go to "My Applications"
  3. Check "Document Status" or "Required Documents"
  4. Look for "Received", "Under Review", or "Accepted" status

If you see "Rejected", check the reason and resubmit immediately.

Common Document Submission Mistakes

  • Uploading documents in wrong format
  • Submitting blurry or unclear images
  • Missing pages from multi-page documents
  • Uploading expired documents
  • Submitting documents for wrong application year
  • Not checking if upload was successful

If You Don't Have Required Documents

If you're missing required documents:

  1. Contact NSFAS: Explain your situation
  2. Get alternatives: Ask if alternative documents are acceptable
  3. Apply for documents: If you need to get new documents (like ID), start the process immediately
  4. Get affidavits: For missing documents, you may be able to submit an affidavit

After Submitting Documents

Once you've submitted all required documents:

  • Your application status should update within 1-2 weeks
  • Check your myNSFAS account regularly
  • Respond to any additional requests promptly
  • Keep copies of all submitted documents

Related Help

If you're experiencing other issues: