The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a lifeline for countless South African students. By providing bursaries to cover tuition, accommodation, and living expenses, NSFAS empowers students from disadvantaged backgrounds to pursue higher education.
This NSFAS funding includes NSFAS allowances for accommodation, food, transport, learning materials and other student needs.
NSFAS Allowance Payments For September 2024
How Much Are NSFAS Allowances?
University students
- Living allowance: R16,500 annually (R3,045 for personal care + R13,455 for meals)
- Learning material allowance: Up to R5,460
TVET college students
- Living allowance: R10,000 annually
- Learning material allowance: Varies depending on the course
Special provisions are made for students with disabilities, who receive higher living allowances and a learning materials allowance. Certain conditions apply.
Monthly NSFAS Allowances for September
NSFAS meal and personal care allowances are divided into 10 payments. This means that in September, students will receive:
- Meal allowance: R1,345
- Personal care allowance: Approximately R300 (for students in catered accommodation)
Transportation Allowance
If students live 10 km away from campus, they are eligible for a transportation allowance of R7,718 annually, which means students receive a monthly travel allowance of up to R771. This allowance is given directly to the student unless the institution arranges travel.
How August Allowances Will Be Paid
In April 2024, NSFAS confirmed that Universities will be responsible for the payment of NSFAS allowances to students until the end of July 2024. However, the government bursary scheme revealed that universities will continue to pay NSFAS allowances until the end of the year.
For TVET College students, NSFAS allowances will be paid directly to student bank accounts at a bank of their choice.
By investing in students, NSFAS plays a crucial role in building a skilled and educated workforce for South Africa.
