NSFAS acknowledged ongoing payment issues from 2024 and highlighted significant changes for the 2025 academic year, particularly for landlords participating in the private student accommodation pilot project.
The scheme reportedly owes accommodation providers millions of rands. NSFAS expressed appreciation for landlords' continued support but admitted to delays in 2024 payments.
Ongoing reconciliations revealed that some landlords were either unpaid or partially paid due to funds being incorrectly directed to institutions or students, or because of necessary allowance adjustments.
Since January 2025, NSFAS has conducted three catch-up payment runs and aims to resolve all legitimate claims by 30 April 2025. Landlords with rejected claims will be contacted individually.
2025 NSFAS Accommodation Allowance Payments
NSFAS allowances will increase by 4% in 2025, including updated accommodation allowance caps set by the Minister of Higher Education and Training, Dr Nobuhle Nkabane.
Institutions began uploading student registration data in 2025, enabling NSFAS to prepare for disbursements to both TVET colleges and universities. Payments for February and March 2025 are scheduled for 28 March 2025.
In 2025, NSFAS will pay accommodation allowances based on students' academic cycles to mitigate delays caused by invoice submissions and internal controls. Payments will be made for a maximum of 10 months, with exceptions addressed through institutional engagement.
NSFAS pledged to ensure timely payments and resolve exceptions before the next disbursement. Landlords are urged to adhere to onboarding processes and lease agreement procedures for student movements to prevent payment delays.
The scheme remains committed to open communication and will hold quarterly regional engagements with accommodation providers.
Non-Accredited Accommodation
NSFAS clarified that it does not regulate unaccredited accommodation. Such properties will only be considered when accredited options are unavailable, with a maximum annual cap of R25,000.
Institutions have been advised to exercise due diligence in approving these claims to ensure they meet service standards.
