Unisa recently outlined its NSFAS allowance payment schedule for the first half of the 2025 academic year. This update has prompted widespread interest among students who rely on NSFAS funding for their studies.
NSFAS provides financial assistance through bursaries and student loans to eligible students enrolled in approved programmes at universities and TVET colleges. This funding covers tuition and registration costs, along with allowances for essentials such as meals, accommodation, and learning materials.
NSFAS Allowance Increases for 2025
Higher Education and Training Minister Nobuhle Nkabane has confirmed a 4% increase in NSFAS allowances for the 2025 academic year.
At Unisa, students receive allowances based on their course load. These payments include allocations for learning materials and personal care.
Learning Materials Allowance
This once-off allowance is paid at the beginning of the year. For 2025, eligible students will receive R5 678, while students living with disabilities will receive R6 240.
Personal Care Allowance
This allowance is paid monthly over a 10-month period, with beneficiaries receiving approximately R316 per month.
NSFAS allowances are disbursed in ten instalments from February to November, in line with the academic calendars of most institutions.
Payment Method for Unisa Students in 2025
Unisa has confirmed that NSFAS allowances will be paid via Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) directly into students’ bank accounts.
NSFAS allowances are paid by the institution via EFT into the student’s bank account,
This remains the standard disbursement method for all university students funded through NSFAS.
