How Much University Students Get from NSFAS Per Month
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a vital financial aid program supporting South African students in public universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges. It helps cover essential costs, ensuring that students from low-income backgrounds can access higher education. A key aspect of this support is the monthly living allowance, which provides students with funds for daily necessities.
In this blog, we will break down how much university students receive from NSFAS per month in 2025, as well as the additional allowances available.
NSFAS Monthly Living Allowance for 2025
For the 2025 academic year, university students funded by NSFAS receive a monthly living allowance of R1,650. This amount is primarily intended to help students cover basic personal expenses, including:
- Food
- Toiletries
- Essential daily necessities
This financial support ensures that students can focus on their studies without being overwhelmed by the costs of living.
Additional NSFAS Allowances
Besides the monthly living allowance, NSFAS provides other forms of financial aid to cover different aspects of student life. These include:
| Allowance Type | Amount (2025) | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Living Allowance | R1,650 | Per month |
| Accommodation | Up to R45,000 | Per annum |
| Transport (up to 40 km) | R7,500 | Per annum |
| Learning Materials | R5,200 | Per annum |
| Incidental/Personal Care | R2,900 (for students in catered residences) | Per annum |
It is important to note that while the living allowance is disbursed monthly, other allowances are paid annually, either in lump sums or installments. Accommodation payments, for example, are often transferred directly to landlords or university residences.
NSFAS Payment Schedule and Disbursement
NSFAS disburses the monthly living allowance on the 30th of each month. Students typically receive their funds through:
- myNSFAS e-wallet (for those using NSFAS banking services)
- Direct bank deposits (for students with registered accounts)
- Institutional payments (where applicable, for specific university-administered allowances)
To ensure timely payments, students must confirm that their registration details with their university and NSFAS are accurate and up to date. Delays in payments can sometimes occur due to administrative backlogs, but NSFAS has committed to improving the consistency of disbursements in 2025.
Factors Affecting NSFAS Allowances
Several factors influence the exact amount a student receives from NSFAS, including:
- Type of Institution – University students and TVET college students may have slightly different allowances.
- Accommodation Arrangements – Students in university residences may receive different accommodation and meal allowances compared to those in private accommodation.
- Distance from Campus – Students who live off-campus but within a certain radius may qualify for transport allowances.
- Eligibility Requirements – Household income, SASSA grant status, and disability status can affect the total funding a student receives.
Challenges and Controversies Surrounding NSFAS Allowances
One of the biggest challenges students face is discrepancies in official NSFAS information. Some official NSFAS sources still list the living allowance at R1,250 per month, based on older figures, while recent reports confirm the 2025 amount as R1,650. This has led to confusion, and students are advised to check their myNSFAS accounts regularly for official updates.
Another issue is payment delays. In previous years, some students have experienced late disbursements due to incomplete registrations or administrative processing issues. NSFAS has promised better efficiency in 2025, but students should ensure they meet all registration deadlines to avoid payment issues.
Conclusion
For 2025, NSFAS provides university students with a monthly living allowance of R1,650, in addition to annual allowances for accommodation, transport, and learning materials. While NSFAS plays a crucial role in making higher education accessible, students must stay informed about their allowances, payment schedules, and eligibility requirements to avoid financial difficulties.
If you are a NSFAS-funded student, regularly check your myNSFAS account for updates and ensure that your registration details are correct to receive your payments on time.
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