The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has provided details on the specific allowance amounts university students can expect for November 2024.
NSFAS provides comprehensive bursaries and student loans to deserving learners enrolled in approved courses at universities and TVET colleges. These NSFAS bursaries cover tuition and registration fees, as well as several allowances for food, accommodation, and learning materials.
NSFAS Allowance Allocation for University Students
For the 2024 academic year, university students receive an annual living allowance of R16,500, which comprises R3,045 for personal care and R13,455 for meals. In addition, students are eligible for a learning material allowance of up to R5,460.
Additional provisions are in place for students with disabilities, which include higher living allowances and further support for learning materials. The total allowance may also vary depending on the number of modules the student is enrolled in and whether they are attending a distance learning institution such as Unisa.
Payment of NSFAS Allowances in November 2024
NSFAS distributes allowances in ten monthly instalments. For November, students will receive a meal allowance of R1,345. Students residing in catered accommodation will also be provided with a personal care allowance of approximately R300.
NSFAS has confirmed that universities will be responsible for processing student allowances for the remainder of the 2024 academic year. As a result, students registered at any of South Africa’s 26 public universities will receive their allowances directly from their respective institutions.
Students who encounter challenges with their allowance payments are encouraged to consult their campus financial office for assistance.