The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) continues its commitment to assist eligible students by providing bursaries and student loans to deserving learners enrolled in approved courses at universities and TVET colleges.
These bursaries cover tuition, registration fees, and allowances for essentials such as food, accommodation, and learning materials.
No Allowance Payments in January
NSFAS does not disburse allowances in January. Payments are made in ten monthly instalments, starting in February and concluding in November. This aligns with the academic calendar, which typically begins in February and ends in November for most institutions.
Uncertainty Surrounds 2025 Payment Methods
The method of allowance disbursement for 2025 remains unconfirmed. In late 2024, university allowances were distributed through the institutions themselves, but NSFAS has yet to clarify if this will continue in the upcoming academic year.
Similarly, the amounts for 2025 allowances are still unknown. These details are expected to be outlined by Higher Education Minister Nobuhle Nkabane in the state of readiness address for the 2025 academic year.
Preparations Underway for Timely Disbursements
Despite the lack of confirmation on allowance amounts, NSFAS has taken steps to ensure funding is in place. The scheme plans to release R3.7 billion to universities in January 2025 to guarantee prompt payments for students, including those in Health Sciences programmes that start earlier than others.
This upfront payment represents 10% of the total R37 billion funding projected for 2025. TVET colleges will also receive 20% of tuition funds, amounting to over R640 million, by 10 January 2025.
Institutions Urged to Submit Accurate Data
NSFAS has called on universities and colleges to submit accurate student registration data promptly. Delays in providing this information could result in late allowance payments, impacting students' financial stability at the start of the academic year.
