The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has officially announced the February 2025 allowance payments for qualifying students.
If you are a university or TVET college student in South Africa, it is important to check whether you meet the eligibility criteria and know how to access your funds.
NSFAS plays a crucial role in funding underprivileged students to ensure financial constraints do not prevent them from pursuing higher education.
However, students must meet financial and academic requirements to qualify. This guide explains the payment process, eligibility rules, academic criteria, and step-by-step instructions on accessing your NSFAS allowance.
Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Allowance Payment Date | 28 February 2025 (varies by institution) |
| Eligibility Criteria | South African citizens, household income below R350,000 per year (R600,000 for disabled students), enrolled in a public university or TVET college |
| Payment Method | Fundi platform (for some institutions), direct deposit, NSFAS bank accounts |
| Academic Requirements | Passed 50% of previous subjects for university students; passed at least 5 subjects for TVET students |
| N+ Rule | Students can receive funding for the minimum course duration plus one extra year |
| Application & Updates | Visit NSFAS Official Website |
NSFAS has confirmed that payments will be made by the end of February 2025, with institutions like CPUT already setting their disbursement date for 28 February 2025. Students must verify their eligibility and ensure their payment details are correct to avoid delays.
Who Qualifies?
To qualify for NSFAS funding, students must meet the following requirements:
- Be a South African citizen or permanent resident
- Have a household income below R350,000 per annum (or R600,000 for disabled students)
- Be enrolled in a public university or TVET college
- Meet the academic requirements set by NSFAS
Academic Requirements
- University Students: Must have passed at least 50% of their previous year’s courses
- TVET College Students:
- National Certificate (Vocational) students: Must have passed at least 5 subjects
- Report 191 (Nated) students: Must have passed at least 3 subjects in their previous N-level
Students who exceed the N+ rule (minimum study period + one extra year) will no longer qualify for NSFAS funding.
Special Considerations
- First-year students who meet financial criteria are automatically eligible
- Students changing institutions or courses may still qualify but must reapply
- Part-time students are not eligible unless they have exceptional circumstances
NSFAS Allowance
NSFAS uses different payment methods, depending on the institution:
- Fundi platform: Used by some universities, including CPUT
- Direct Bank Deposits: Payments made into students’ NSFAS bank accounts
- Institutional Payment System: Some institutions manage NSFAS disbursements internally
Students should confirm their payment method with their institution to avoid any confusion.
Breakdown
Here is a breakdown of what NSFAS covers:
| Allowance Type | Amount (Approximate) |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | Fully covered for eligible students |
| Accommodation | University residence or private accommodation (capped per institution) |
| Transport Allowance | Up to R7,500 per year (for students staying far from campus) |
| Meal Allowance | Up to R15,000 per year |
| Learning Materials | Book and device allowances (if applicable) |
| Personal Care Allowance | A small stipend for basic needs |
How to Check
- Log into MyNSFAS
- Click on Track Application Status
- If approved, you are eligible to receive payments
Confirm Your Payment Method
- If your institution uses Fundi, ensure your details are updated
- If NSFAS pays directly to your bank account, check that it is linked and verified
Check Payment Dates
- Each institution has different payment schedules
- Confirm with your institution’s financial aid office
Access Your Allowance
- If paid via NSFAS Bank Account, withdraw funds using your NSFAS bank card
- If paid via Fundi, use their payment portal
- If paid through your institution, follow their disbursement process
Common NSFAS Issues
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Delay in Payment | Contact your institution’s financial aid office or NSFAS support |
| Application Rejected | Submit an appeal through the NSFAS appeals portal within the given timeframe |
| Bank Account Not Verified | Log into MyNSFAS and update your banking details |
| Incorrect Allowance Amount | Request a breakdown from your institution or NSFAS |
FAQs
When will the February 2025 NSFAS allowance be paid?
Most institutions will disburse payments by 28 February 2025, but dates vary.
Who qualifies for the NSFAS allowance?
South African students with a household income below R350,000 (or R600,000 for disabled students) and enrolled in a public university or TVET college.
How can I check if I qualify for NSFAS?
Log into MyNSFAS, click Track Application Status, and check if your funding is approved.
How are NSFAS payments made?
Payments are made via Fundi, direct deposits, or institutional disbursement systems.
What should I do if my NSFAS payment is delayed?
Contact your institution’s financial aid office or NSFAS support for assistance.
