The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) provides comprehensive bursaries and student loans to deserving learners enrolled in approved courses at universities and TVET colleges.
NSFAS bursaries cover tuition and registration fees, as well as several allowances for food, accommodation, and learning materials.
NSFAS Allowances in December
NSFAS generally does not issue allowances in December since it falls outside the academic calendar. Most universities and TVET colleges complete their academic schedules by November, with classes typically running from February to November each year.
These allowances are intended to assist students during active academic months, covering essentials such as accommodation and meals while they attend classes.
As a result, NSFAS spreads allowance payments across ten months, from February to November, meaning no payments will be made in December 2024.
NSFAS Allowance Payments for 2024
University Students
- Living Allowance: R16,500 per year (R3,045 allocated for personal care, R13,455 for meals)
- Learning Material Allowance: Up to R5,460
TVET College Students
- Living Allowance: R10,000 per year
- Learning Material Allowance: Varies depending on the course
Additional Support for Students with Disabilities
Several special allowances are available for students with disabilities. These include:
- Higher living allowances
- Larger learning material allowances
These additional benefits are subject to specific conditions.
