New NSFAS Payment Plan for 2025

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has revealed its payment plan for 2025, outlining key changes and updates for students. Here's what you need to know:

Key Highlights of the NSFAS Payment Plan for 2025

Payment Distribution: 

NSFAS had initially planned to transfer allowances directly to students' bank accounts. However, due to ongoing legal challenges, universities will continue to manage payments for the beginning of 2025. Payments will be made through official NSFAS channels, with universities responsible for ensuring timely disbursement.

Payment Schedule: 

The 2025 payment plan is divided into two semesters with specific payment cycles:

• First Semester:
  Payments will begin on 27 February 2025, followed by cycles on 6 March April 3, 2 May and 5 June.
• Second Semester:
  Payments will resume on 17 July 2025, with additional cycles on 7 August , 4 September, 2 October, and 6 November.

Additionally, incidental allowances will be available from March 15, 2025, and allowances for learning materials (for those not choosing laptops) will start on 22 March 2025.

Allowance Amounts:

• Tuition Fees: Fully covered for eligible students at public universities and TVET colleges.
• Accommodation Allowance: Up to R45,000 per year for university students, and R33,000 for TVET students.
• Living Allowance: R1,650 per month for both university and TVET students.
• Transport Allowance: Up to R7,500 per year for both university and TVET students.
• Learning Material Allowance: R5,200 per year, applicable to students who opt for laptops.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Household income must not exceed R350,000 per year.
• Students must be enrolled in a public university or TVET college and must maintain satisfactory academic progress.

Application Status: The application period for NSFAS 2025 has officially closed for University students. TVET College students will be able to apply for 2025 Second Trimester, Second Semester and Third Trimester NSFAS fundinf applications.

Conclusion

The NSFAS payment plan for 2025 provides critical financial support for students, covering tuition fees, living expenses, and other essential allowances. Despite the delay in implementing direct payments to students’ bank accounts, universities will ensure the continued disbursement of allowances. Students should stay informed by checking with their respective universities and the official NSFAS website for any further updates or changes.