The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has played a crucial role in facilitating tertiary education for over five million students since its establishment. Its comprehensive funding approach aims to cover all expenses associated with obtaining a degree.
NSFAS bursaries encompass tuition and registration fees, along with various allowances for students, including an accommodation allowance.
Given that many students enrolled in institutions live far away, especially those attending universities or Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Colleges, NSFAS provides accommodation allowances to address this need.
For students residing in approved private accommodations, NSFAS offers a capped housing allowance. In metropolitan areas, this allowance can go up to R50,000 annually, while in other regions, it is capped at R41,000. This provision is applicable to both university and TVET College students.
It's important to note that each student is eligible for only one type of accommodation allowance per academic term.
Students at TVET Colleges enrolled in an occupational qualification may be eligible for allowances, specifically during simulated training. However, those with an employment contract and receiving a stipend during simulated training do not qualify for NSFAS allowances.
For distance learning students, there is no eligibility for any accommodation-related allowances.
In cases where the accommodation lacks certain essential services, NSFAS or the institution will determine the maximum amount allocated for the accommodation. If landlords fail to provide data, students receive a monthly allowance of R2,000 per year to cover data expenses.
Similarly, if landlords are unable to ensure consistent water and electricity services, students receive an annual utility allowance of R5,000 directly.
NSFAS Funding
Applicants for NSFAS must adhere to specific criteria to qualify for either a NSFAS bursary or a NSFAS missing middle student loan. These requirements encompass being a South African citizen, pursuing an approved qualification, and meeting the NSFAS household income threshold.
For able-bodied students, the income threshold is set at R350,000, while for students with disabilities, it is R600,000.
Although the application for NSFAS is a one-time process, the financial aid scheme undertakes an ongoing assessment to determine continued funding throughout the duration of the qualification. To remain eligible for NSFAS funding, students must satisfy both financial and academic requirements.
