The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) provides financial assistance to students in South Africa, covering various courses and qualifications.
NSFAS Living Allowance Breakdown
NSFAS living allowance breakdown amounts are aligned with the approved latest DHET guidelines.
University Students
- Accommodation: As per the actual costs charged by the university (costs for private accommodation must not exceed costs for university residence)
- Transport: R7,500 per annum (up to 40 km from institution)
- Living allowance: R15,000 per annum
- Book allowances: R5,200 per annum
- Incidental/personal care allowance: R2,900 per annum for students in catered residences
TVET Students
- Accommodation in an urban area: R24,000 per annum
- Accommodation in a peri-urban area: R18,900 per annum
- Accommodation in a rural area: R15,750 per annum
- Transport: R7,350 per annum (up to 40 km from institution)
- Transport: R7,000 per annum
- Incidental/personal care allowance: R2,900 per annum
Who Qualifies for NSFAS Funding?
NSFAS funding is available to:
- All South African citizens
- All SASSA grant recipients
- Applicants whose combined household income is not more than R350,000 per annum
- Person with disability: Combined household income must not be more than R600,000 per annum
- Students who started studying before 2018: Household income must not be more than R122,000 per annum
Who Should Not Apply?
NSFAS funding is not available to:
- Students who have completed a previous qualification
- Students with a combined household income of more than R350,000 per annum
- Students who have already applied, qualified, and received funding
NSFAS Contact
For more information or assistance, contact NSFAS:
Call Centre: 0800 067 327
Email: info@nsfas.org.za
WhatsApp: +27 63 093 5671
Office Address: The Halyard, 4 Christiaan Barnard St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8001