The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has officially opened its student accommodation portal for the 2025 academic year. This portal allows NSFAS-funded students to apply for and secure housing through an accredited system that ensures safe and quality accommodations. Applications opened on 6 January 2025 and will remain available until all NSFAS-accredited properties are fully booked.
NSFAS provides comprehensive bursaries and student loans to deserving learners enrolled in approved courses at universities and TVET colleges. NSFAS funding covers tuition and registration fees, as well as several allowances for food, accommodation, and learning materials.The launch of the accommodation portal follows a successful pilot project implemented in the 2022/23 academic year, which aimed to enhance the availability of accredited housing for students at 17 South African universities and 23 TVET colleges.
Ensuring Quality and Compliance
To maintain high standards for student housing, NSFAS has emphasized its commitment to re-evaluating all accredited properties. Properties that fail to meet the Policy on the Minimum Norms and Standards for Student Housing will lose their accreditation certificates. This process is part of NSFAS’s broader effort to ensure that all accommodations provided through its platform meet safety and quality requirements.
How to Apply for NSFAS Accommodation
Students and accommodation providers are encouraged to register on the portal. Below is a step-by-step guide for students to apply for accommodation:
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Log In: Visit the myNSFAS portal and log in using your student credentials.
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Search for Accommodation: Browse the list of approved student accommodations near your institution.
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Apply: Select your preferred accommodation and complete the application form.
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Confirmation: Receive an email or SMS confirming your accommodation reservation.
Partnering with Private Providers
The accommodation system allows private providers to register their properties to house NSFAS-funded students. This partnership model helps expand the range of available options while maintaining strict compliance with the housing standards set by NSFAS.
Expanding Access
Following the review of its pilot program in October 2024, NSFAS has decided to fully implement private student accommodation options at all universities and TVET colleges starting in 2025. This marks a significant step toward addressing the demand for quality student housing.
By leveraging the new portal, NSFAS aims to streamline the accommodation process, ensuring that students have access to safe and quality housing while fostering a robust partnership with accredited providers.
