Never pay to apply: how to spot NSFAS and bursary scams
Last checked: 27 October 2026
Applying for NSFAS is free, and nobody can guarantee you funding. NSFAS says so in its own 2027 application user guide: never pay anyone to submit an application for you, never share your myNSFAS password or OTP, and only apply through the NSFAS website, myNSFAS and the official NSFAS app.
On 20 October 2026 NSFAS again warned applicants about fraudulent social media accounts and people demanding payment for application help or promising guaranteed funding.
What we promise
- We never charge for anything, including application help.
- We never ask for your myNSFAS password, OTP, ID number, ID copy, results or bank details.
- We never apply for you and we can't see or change your application. We are not NSFAS, a university, a college or a bursary provider.
- If someone contacts you claiming to be from The Application Coach and asks for money or details, it isn't us.
Warning signs of a scam
| If you see this | What it really means |
|---|---|
| "Pay R150 and we'll submit your NSFAS application" | Applying is free. You can apply yourself on a phone or computer. |
| "Guaranteed funding" or "approval in 24 hours" | Only NSFAS decides, after checking your details with Home Affairs, SARS and SASSA. No one can guarantee it. |
| A WhatsApp or Facebook account asking for your OTP | An OTP lets someone into your account. NSFAS says never share it. |
| "Send your ID and payslips to this number" | Upload documents only inside myNSFAS or the official app. |
| A bursary that asks for an "admin fee" or "processing fee" | Real bursary providers don't charge you to apply. |
| A link that isn't nsfas.org.za | Type the address yourself rather than tapping links in messages. |
Where to report it
- NSFAS fraud and corruption hotline: speakup@nsfas.org.za (anonymous reports accepted), as listed in the NSFAS statement of 20 October 2026.
- NSFAS contact centre: toll-free 0800 067 327, and the official WhatsApp line 078 519 8006, per the NSFAS 2027 user guide.
- If you've lost money, open a case at your nearest police station and tell your bank straight away.
If you already shared your password or OTP
- Log in to myNSFAS on the official site or app and change your password immediately.
- Check that your cellphone number, email and bank details on the profile are still yours.
- Report it to NSFAS on the contact details above, with screenshots of the messages.