NSFAS provides comprehensive bursaries and student loans to deserving learners enrolled in approved courses at universities and TVET colleges. These bursaries cover tuition and registration fees, as well as several allowances for food, accommodation, and learning materials.
NSFAS funding includes the following:
- Tuition and registration fees
- Living allowances for food and accommodation
- Learning material allowances
How Much Are NSFAS Allowances?
For university students:
- The annual living allowance is R16,500, which includes R3,045 for personal care and R13,455 for meals.
- They also receive a learning material allowance of up to R5,460.
For TVET college students:
- The annual living allowance is R10,000.
- The learning material allowance varies depending on the course.
Special Provisions for Students with Disabilities
Students with disabilities may qualify for additional allowances, including higher living allowances and more support for learning materials. However, certain conditions apply, such as allowances being available only during simulated training for some TVET students.
October 2024 NSFAS Monthly Allowances
NSFAS allocates meal and personal care allowances in 10 installments throughout the year. For example, in July 2024, students received:
- Meal allowance: R1,345
- Personal care allowance (for students in catered accommodation): Approximately R300
Transportation Allowance
Students who live more than 10 km from campus are entitled to an annual transportation allowance of R7,718, which amounts to a monthly travel allowance of R771. If transportation is not arranged by the institution, this allowance is paid directly to the student.
Maintaining NSFAS Eligibility
To continue receiving NSFAS funding, students must maintain their academic eligibility and meet the required standards set by NSFAS.
