Higher Education and Training Minister Buti Manamela has urged prospective students to apply for financial aid as early as possible and avoid waiting until the deadline.
Manamela was speaking in Johannesburg on Friday morning at the launch of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) 2027 application season.
The application period officially opened on 18 September and will close on 31 October.
The minister says students who apply early will have more time to complete their applications correctly and submit all the required supporting documents before the deadline.
Manamela says the government is also taking the application process directly into communities to ensure eligible students have access to information and assistance.
Outreach teams will be deployed across provinces, districts, rural areas, townships and other marginalised communities to provide application support.
The department will also work with schools and provincial education departments to ensure learners are informed about the NSFAS application process.
Manamela has specifically urged Life Orientation teachers to familiarise themselves with NSFAS information and frequently asked questions so they can assist learners with their applications.
The minister says these efforts are aimed at ensuring eligible students are able to access financial support for their studies and avoid challenges associated with late or incomplete applications.