The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has dismissed allegations of discrimination against University of South Africa (Unisa) students.
NSFAS provides comprehensive bursaries and student loans to deserving students enrolled in approved courses at universities and TVET colleges. This funding covers tuition and registration fees. Students also receive several allowances for food, accommodation, and learning materials.
Unisa students also receive NSFAS funding. However, due to the university’s Open Distance e-Learning (ODeL) model, their allowance amounts differ from those of students at traditional universities.
Acting NSFAS CEO Waseem Carrim explained that the difference in allowance payments is based on the nature of distance learning.
We can’t provide the same allowance threshold for students who are living and studying at home, especially considering the physical challenges present in the country.
Unlike students at residential universities, Unisa students do not require accommodation or transport allowances since they study remotely.
NSFAS Allowances for Unisa Students
Learning Materials Allowance
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Paid once-off at the beginning of the academic year.
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R5 678 for general students.
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R6 240 for students with disabilities.
Personal Care Allowance
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Paid monthly for 10 months (February to November).
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Students receive R316 per month.
NSFAS allowances are disbursed in 10 payments throughout the academic year, covering the period from February to November.
