The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has recently made important updates regarding how allowance payments will be handled for August 2024. Following recent changes and clarifications, students can now better understand how they will receive their financial aid.
NSFAS Overview
NSFAS provides comprehensive financial support to deserving students at public TVET colleges and universities. This aid covers tuition, registration fees, and essential allowances for expenses such as food, accommodation, and learning materials.
Recent Changes and Clarifications
NSFAS has faced several challenges with its Direct Payment System, including investigations into irregularities in the service contracts awarded to payment facilitators. Specifically, the contract with eZaga was initially canceled, but a recent court ruling reinstated it. NSFAS is appealing this decision and has advised that payments will proceed based on the recent arrangements until the matter is resolved.
NSFAS Allowance Payments for August 2024
University Students
- Living Allowance: R16,500 annually (R3,045 for personal care + R13,455 for meals)
- Learning Material Allowance: Up to R5,460
- Meal Allowance: R1,345 for August
- Personal Care Allowance: Approximately R300 (for students in catered accommodation)
TVET College Students
- Living Allowance: R10,000 annually
- Learning Material Allowance: Varies by course
- Meal Allowance: R1,345 for August
- Personal Care Allowance: Approximately R300 (for students in catered accommodation)
Additional Allowances
- Transportation Allowance: For students living more than 10 km from campus, an annual transportation allowance of R7,718 is provided. This translates to a monthly travel allowance of up to R771. This allowance is paid directly to the student unless the institution arranges transportation.
Payment Methods
- University Students: Allowances will be disbursed through the respective institutions.
- TVET College Students: Allowances will be paid directly into students’ bank accounts.
Contact Information
For any queries or additional information regarding NSFAS payments, please contact:
- NSFAS Call Centre: 0860 067 327
- Email: info@nsfas.org.za
- Website: www.nsfas.org.za
- Postal Address: National Student Financial Aid Scheme, Private Bag X4, Braamfontein, 2017
Stay informed about your NSFAS allowances and ensure you check your bank account or university’s disbursement schedule for August.