NSFAS Monthly Living Allowance Breakdown

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government-funded organization that provides financial assistance to students in South Africa.

NSFAS funding covers tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses, making it possible for students to pursue their studies at public universities and TVET colleges.

NSFAS Monthly Living Allowance Breakdown

NSFAS allowances are aligned with the approved latest Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) guidelines.

Here is a breakdown of the allowances for university and TVET students:

University Students

  • Accommodation: Actual costs charged by the university (private accommodation costs must not exceed university residence costs)
  • 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:
    • Urban area: R24,000 per annum
    • Peri-urban area: R18,900 per annum
    • 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?

To qualify for NSFAS funding, you must meet the following criteria:

  • South African Citizenship: All South African citizens are eligible for funding
  • SASSA Grant Recipients: All SASSA grant recipients qualify for funding
  • Household Income: Combined household income must not exceed R350,000 per annum
  • Person with Disability: Combined household income must not exceed R600,000 per annum
  • Students Who Started Studying Before 2018: Household income must not exceed R122,000 per annum

Who Should Not Apply?

You should not apply for NSFAS funding if:

  • Completed a Previous Qualification: Students who have completed a previous qualification are not eligible for funding
  • High Household Income: Students with a combined household income exceeding R350,000 per annum are not eligible for funding
  • Already Received Funding: Students who have already applied, qualified, and received funding are automatically funded for the duration of their studies, provided they pass their modules and meet academic requirements

NSFAS Contact

For more information or queries, please contact NSFAS:

  • Phone: 0800 020 611
  • Email: info@nsfas.org.za
  • Website
  • WhatsApp: +27 63 093 5671
  • Office Address: The Halyard, 4 Christiaan Barnard St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, 8001