NSFAS funding can cover tuition, accommodation and monthly allowances — but many students are still unsure how much money they receive and when payments are made.
While 2026 NSFAS applications are now closed, students can still track their status, respond to document requests and prepare for the next cycle.
According to the Department of Higher Education and Training’s 2026/27 plan, more than 700,000 students are supported through NSFAS, showing how critical the scheme is for access to education.
How much NSFAS pays students
NSFAS does not give one fixed amount — funding depends on where and how you study.
University students may receive:
- Tuition fees (paid directly to the institution)
- Accommodation (on-campus or approved private housing)
- Food allowance
- Learning materials allowance
- Personal care allowance
TVET college students may receive:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation (if applicable)
- Transport allowance
- Personal care allowance
Payments are usually monthly, but the exact amount varies by institution and student circumstances.
When NSFAS pays students
- Payments are typically made monthly during the academic year
- Universities and TVET colleges often manage disbursements differently
- Some institutions pay directly to student bank accounts, others use payment systems
Delays can happen if:
- Documents are missing
- Registration is incomplete
- Banking details are incorrect
What students must do now (applications closed)
Even though applications are closed, students should:
Check application status
Log in to the myNSFAS portal regularly to:
- Confirm approval
- Track funding decisions
- Respond to updates
Upload outstanding documents
NSFAS may request:
- Consent forms
- Declaration forms
- Proof of guardianship
- Supporting documents (death, divorce, retrenchment)
Upload everything through your official account — not via email or agents.
Fix any issues early
Common problems include:
- Wrong phone number or email
- Missing documents
- Incomplete application details
Common NSFAS mistakes to avoid
NSFAS warns students not to:
- Pay anyone to apply
- Use someone else’s contact details
- Ignore document requests
- Rely on social media rumours
These mistakes can delay or block funding.
Why this matters in the Eastern Cape
For many students in Lusikisiki, Bizana, Flagstaff and surrounding rural areas:
- NSFAS funding is often the only way to study
- Travel and internet access can delay applications
- Missing one document can cost a full academic year
Early preparation is critical.
How to prepare for the next NSFAS cycle
Students should start now:
- Gather required documents
- Ensure ID and personal details are correct
- Create or update a myNSFAS profile
- Keep access to their phone number and email
Where to get help
Students can get assistance through:
- NSFAS contact centre: 08000 67327
- myNSFAS portal
- NYDA offices
- University and TVET financial aid offices
Why NSFAS funding matters
NSFAS is designed to ensure that financial barriers do not stop students from accessing higher education.
With over 700,000 beneficiaries, it remains one of the most important support systems for young people in South Africa.
What to do next
Students should:
- Check their NSFAS status regularly
- Respond quickly to document requests
- Prepare early for the next application window