Further education comes at a cost. NSFAS provides bursaries and loans, including allowances to help students meet their essential needs. These allowances are a key component of NSFAS funding. The scheme has now confirmed the specifics for 2025.
Allowance Payments Scheduled
NSFAS allowances are typically disbursed in ten monthly instalments during the academic year, running from February to November. This aligns with the standard academic calendar for most institutions.
TVET College Allowances Detailed
For 2025, TVET college students can anticipate support for learning materials, living expenses/personal care (for those in non-catered residences), accommodation (subject to regional caps), and transport (for non-resident students).
Distance Learning and Occupational Programmes Clarified
Distance learning students at TVET colleges will receive a personal care allowance. This differs from the support offered to university students studying remotely. Students on occupational programmes at TVET colleges may qualify for allowances during simulated training. Those with employment contracts and stipends are not eligible.
Loans and Accommodation Support
Loans will be available for accommodation and learning materials. The exact amounts for 2025 NSFAS allowances will be announced soon by Higher Education Minister, Nobuhle Nkabane, during her state of readiness briefing.
Direct Payments to Continue
NSFAS has confirmed that direct allowance payments to TVET college students will continue in 2025. Students' allowances will be paid via approved NSFAS payment channels, specifically into their own bank accounts. NSFAS has urged TVET colleges to ensure students open bank accounts to facilitate timely payments. Only students with confirmed funding and submitted registration data can register their banking details.
Updating Bank Details
- Visit the myNSFAS portal
- Log in using your myNSFAS credentials.
- Select "Bank Account Details" under "Profile Information."
- Enter your bank details accurately.
- Click "Save."
NSFAS says students can minimise any potential disruptions in receiving their allowances by ensuring their profiles are up-to-date and submitting their banking details on time.
