How much is NSFAS allowance per month The NSFAS Fund Cut off the cost of the tuition fee and registration. NSFAS funded students who wish to study at a university will receive additional allowances to cover the cost of books, transport, accommodation, food and personal care.
Types of NSFAS Allowances
NSFAS is not provided in a flat amount.
It instead has various elements in it which are meant to address specific needs that students experience while in school.
Presented below is a summary of the types of NSFAS allowances available in 2024:
Living Allowance: This kind of allowance is given to meet the day-to-day costs of living that include food and grocery purchases.
University Students: R16,500 annually (about R1,375 each month) TVET College Students: R10,000 annually (about R833 every month) Personal Care Allowance – This one covers the cost of items such as soft drinks, lotions, and anything else that contributes to looking after an individual’s hygiene, etc.
All Students: R3,045 per annum (approximately R254 per month)
Accommodation Allowance: This one is aimed at covering the expenses that one incurs while getting on-campus or off-campus housing. It varies according to the types and places of housing available:
Urban Area: R24,000 per annum (paid directly to the institution)
Peri-Urban Area: R18,900 per annum (paid directly to the institution)
Rural Area: R15,750 per annum (paid directly to the institution)
Transport Allowance: This takes care of expenses associated with travel to and from the institution. This is subject to the distance from the beneficiaries’ household to the institution of study (max. R7,875 per annum).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How much is NSFAS allowance per month in 2026?
It ranges from about R1,600 to over R5,500 depending on your allowances.
Is NSFAS paid every month?
Yes, usually for 10 months (February to November).
Do all students get the same amount?
No, it depends on accommodation and allowance type.
Does NSFAS include accommodation money?
Yes, but it is often paid directly to landlords or institutions.
How much is the living allowance?
About R1,650 per month.
Do TVET students get less money?
Generally yes, especially for meal allowances.
Can NSFAS increase allowances in 2027?
Yes, amounts may be adjusted annually.
What is the highest NSFAS allowance?
Students with full benefits may receive over R5,500/month in total value.
Does NSFAS pay in December?
No, payments usually stop in November.
How is NSFAS money paid?
Through NSFAS Wallet or bank account.
Can I get all allowances at once?
Sometimes the first payment includes multiple months.
What if I don’t receive my allowance?
Contact NSFAS or your institution immediately.
Do distance students receive allowances?
Yes, but usually limited to learning materials and personal care.
Is transport allowance included monthly?
Yes, it is divided across the academic months.
Do I get book allowance monthly?
No, it is usually paid once per year.
Can NSFAS stop my allowance?
Yes, if you fail to meet academic or funding requirements.
Does accommodation affect monthly allowance?
Yes, it significantly changes how much cash you receive.
Can I budget NSFAS money?
Yes, proper budgeting is strongly recommended.
Do first-year students get the same allowance?
Yes, if they qualify under the same conditions.
Is NSFAS enough to cover all expenses?
It covers basic needs but may not cover everything.
