TVET Students to Receive First NSFAS Allowances on 7 February 2026
TVET college students across South Africa can expect to receive their first NSFAS allowance for the 2026 academic year on the 7th of February 2026. TVET college students will be the first to receive allowance in 2026. The university students on the other hand will receive their first NSFAS allowance during the last week of the the month of February.
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) provides allowances to qualifying Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college students as part of its broader mandate to ensure access to higher education and skills development for students from poor and working-class households.
TVET 2026 NSFAS Allowances
The first allowance payment in February is important, as it comes at the start of the academic year when students face high costs related to registration, transport, learning materials, and daily living expenses. For many TVET students, NSFAS allowances are their primary source of financial support.
The 7 February 2026 payment is expected to cover the first cycle of monthly allowances, provided that students meet all funding and registration requirements.
Who Will Receive the Allowances?
Only students who meet the following criteria will receive the February 2026 allowance payment:
- Approved for NSFAS funding for the 2026 academic year
- Fully registered at a public TVET college
- Registered for an NSFAS-funded qualification
- Meet NSFAS academic progression rules
- Have verified personal and banking details with NSFAS
What Are Types of Allowances For TVET Students?
NSFAS-funded TVET students will receive these types of allowances:
Accommodation Allowance
Paid to students staying in NSFAS-accredited accommodation. In some cases, funds are paid directly to landlords. Students who stay around the college will not qualify for the accommodation allowance.
Transport Allowance
Provided to students who live at home and commute daily to campus.
Living Allowance
Supports basic day-to-day needs such as food and personal necessities.
Personal Care Allowance
Assists with toiletries and other personal essentials.
How Allowances Will Be Paid in 2026
NSFAS allowances are paid using an approved NSFAS payment system, which may include direct bank payments or other authorised disbursement methods. Students are responsible for ensuring that their banking details are correct.
What Students Should Do Before 7 February 2026
To avoid missing out on the first allowance payment, TVET students should:
- Complete their college registration as early as possible
- Log into the NSFAS student portal to confirm funding status
- Ensure banking details are accurate and verified
- Monitor official NSFAS and college announcements
- Keep proof of registration and correspondence
NSFAS Urges Students to Rely on Official Communication
NSFAS has consistently cautioned students against misinformation, especially during allowance payment periods. Students are advised to rely only on Official NSFAS statements, College financial aid offices and Verified institutional communication channels
A Critical Support System for TVET Students
NSFAS allowances remain a cornerstone of student support within the TVET sector. By covering accommodation, transport, and basic living costs, the scheme allows students to focus on their studies and practical training without the added pressure of financial instability.
The confirmation that TVET students will receive their first NSFAS allowances on 7 February 2026 provides reassurance and allows students to plan better for the start of the academic year.
