The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) continuously plays an indispensable role in funding students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Allowance amounts were therefore amended in 2025 to ensure that students are adequately funded for tuition fees, accommodation, food, and transport. The changes give NSAFS funding to over one million students, hoping to ease some financial pressure while granting greater access to higher education.
Increased Allowance Amounts
NSFAS has confirmed allowance increases of 4% in the academic year 2025. Students at the university will receive R2,200 living allowance per month for a total of R26,400 per year. Changes have also been effected in accommodation allowances: urban students get R66,000 a year while students in rural areas get R54,000.
Living allowances for students residing at TVET colleges have been increased to R1,900 per month, summing up to R22,800 annually. For private accommodation, support has been increased to R48,000 to allow students to afford suitable housing while living off-campus.
Payment Schedule and Banking Update
NSFAS allowances are paid over 10 months, from February to November every academic year. University students get their funds through their institutions while TVET college students have their allowances deposited directly into their personal bank accounts. To eliminate potential delays in payment, students should verify their banking details’ correctness and ensure they are updated on the myNSFAS portal.
Addressing Overpayment Issues
In April 2025, NSFAS inadvertently made excess payments to some students. Instead of the correct amount, R13,800 was deposited, which included funds intended for accommodation providers, creating confusion amongst beneficiaries. NSFAS has urged affected students to return the excess funds to their landlords lest they risk eviction. Institutions have been requested to assist students in resolving these payment discrepancies.
Conclusion
The 2025 NSFAS adjustments increase financial aid, ensuring that students could smoothly concentrate on their study, free from stress caused by financial issues. Higher living allowances, improved accommodation funding, and an easier payment process also help NSFAS promote more student welfare. Students very much must take note of their banking details and respect for payment errors to avoid interruptions in their funding.
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