The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a vital organization that provides financial support to students from low-income households in South Africa.
By covering tuition fees and offering various allowances, NSFAS ensures that students can access higher education without financial burdens.
NSFAS Book Allowance Amount
1. Tuition Fees
Full Coverage for Eligible Students
NSFAS covers the entire tuition costs for students enrolled in public universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges.
- Universities: Full tuition for undergraduate programs.
- TVET Colleges: Full tuition for approved vocational and technical courses.
2. Accommodation Allowance
Support for Students Living Away from Home
The accommodation allowance is a crucial component of NSFAS Allowances 2025, covering the cost of housing for students living away from home.
- Universities: Up to R45,000 per year for accredited residences or private housing near the institution.
- TVET Colleges: Up to R33,000 per year for approved accommodation.
3. Living Allowance
Monthly Support for Day-to-Day Expenses
The living allowance is designed to support students with their day-to-day expenses, including food, toiletries, and other personal necessities.
- University and TVET College Students: R1,650 per month.
4. Transport Allowance
Support for Commuting Students
The transport allowance covers travel costs for non-residential students living within 40 kilometers of their institution.
- All Students: Up to R7,500 per year.
5. Learning Material Allowance
Support for Educational Resources
The learning material allowance enables students to purchase textbooks, stationery, and other educational resources essential for their studies.
- All Students: R5,200 per year.
6. Disability Allowance
Additional Support for Students with Disabilities
The disability allowance provides additional financial support for students with disabilities, tailored to meet specific needs.
- Assistive Devices: Costs depend on the device required.
- Specialized Services: Funding is provided based on individual needs.
Estimated Breakdown of NSFAS Allowances 2025
| Allowance Type | University Students | TVET College Students |
| Tuition Fees | Full coverage | Full coverage |
| Accommodation | Up to R45,000/year | Up to R33,000/year |
| Living Allowance | R1,650/month | R1,650/month |
| Transport Allowance | Up to R7,500/year | Up to R7,500/year |
| Learning Material Allowance | R5,200/year | R5,200/year |
| Disability Allowance | Varies by need | Varies by need |
How to Qualify for NSFAS Allowances 2025
To access NSFAS Allowances 2025, students must meet the following criteria:
- Household Income: Combined household income must not exceed R350,000 per year.
- Institutional Enrollment: Must be enrolled in a public university or TVET college.
- Academic Progress: Must maintain satisfactory academic performance as defined by NSFAS.
Payment Process for NSFAS Allowances 2025
NSFAS ensures seamless disbursement of allowances to students.
Payments are made directly into students’ NSFAS-linked bank accounts.
- Monthly Payments: Living and transport allowances are distributed monthly.
- Annual Payments: Learning material and some disability allowances are paid as lump sums at the beginning of the academic year.
NSFAS Contact
For more information or to apply for NSFAS funding, please contact:
- Website
- Phone: 0800 020 611
- Email: info@nsfas.org.za