New NSFAS Rule – In a landmark update announced in August 2025, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has rolled out a new rule that directly impacts divorced students pursuing higher education in South Africa. This change is designed to provide tailored financial assistance to individuals whose marital status may have previously disqualified them from receiving full aid or created complexities during the application process. The revised rule offers clarity, support, and an opportunity for divorced students to access special financial aid packages previously unavailable under standard NSFAS regulations. The policy acknowledges the financial struggles faced by students navigating separation, single parenthood, or family financial restructuring post-divorce. NSFAS now allows divorced applicants to be assessed independently, separating their financial status from their former spouse’s income—an issue that has historically disqualified many from funding. This update comes at a time when the rising cost of tuition, transport, and living expenses is making higher education increasingly inaccessible for those without adequate financial backing. With this rule, divorced students are finally given the autonomy and recognition needed to qualify for the funding they genuinely require. The updated eligibility criteria ensure that affected students receive financial support based on their current situation, not their past marital status. Whether you’re currently studying or planning to enroll in the next academic year, it’s important to understand how this rule works, who qualifies, what documents are required, and how to apply. The following guide breaks down everything you need to know about the new NSFAS rule for divorced students and how to take advantage of the available aid in August 2025.
Who Is Eligible Under the New NSFAS Rule?
This new rule targets divorced individuals who may have previously been excluded from full NSFAS benefits due to joint income considerations.
- South African citizens who are legally divorced
- Students enrolled or planning to enroll in a public university or TVET college
- Divorced applicants no longer receiving spousal support
- Applicants who are financially dependent on themselves or parents
- Students not exceeding the NSFAS income threshold (R350,000 annually)
- Those whose divorce resulted in a significant drop in financial capacity
- Students with children who are now single parents due to the divorce
Key Documents Required to Apply for Special NSFAS Aid
To verify the changed financial situation, NSFAS requires clear documentation from divorced applicants.
- Certified copy of divorce decree
- Updated affidavit stating financial independence
- Bank statements for the last 3 months
- Payslips or proof of unemployment
- Proof of residence
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Children’s birth certificates (if applying as a single parent)
- NSFAS consent form (completed and signed)
Financial Aid Benefits Available for Divorced Students
Students approved under the new rule are eligible for multiple support streams designed to ease their academic journey.
- Full coverage of tuition fees
- Monthly living allowance (up to R1,650)
- Learning materials allowance (up to R5,200 per year)
- Accommodation allowance (varies by institution)
- Transport allowance (up to R7,500 annually)
- Personal care allowance (R3,045 annually)
- Additional childcare allowance (for single-parent applicants)
How to Apply for Divorced Student NSFAS Funding
Applications for NSFAS funding under this special provision follow the standard NSFAS application path with additional divorce-related documents.
- Visit the official NSFAS website: www.nsfas.org.za
- Create or log in to your MyNSFAS account
- Upload all required documentation, including divorce proof
- Clearly state your marital status and financial condition
- Submit application before the August 31, 2025, deadline
- Await approval message or request for additional information
- Track your application status regularly
Step-by-Step Table: NSFAS Application Process for Divorced Students
| Step | Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Register on MyNSFAS | Use ID number and personal details |
| 2 | Prepare documents | Ensure documents are clear and certified |
| 3 | Upload divorce decree and affidavit | Mandatory for divorced applicants |
| 4 | Complete financial declaration | Include income, bank statements, expenses |
| 5 | Submit the application | Before August 31 deadline |
| 6 | Check status weekly | Look for NSFAS feedback via portal or SMS |
| 7 | Respond to queries quickly | Upload any additional documents if requested |
Special Consideration for Single Parents After Divorce
Divorced students with children are now given additional support through special childcare allowances and priority housing.
Key Points for Single-Parent Students
- Additional R1,000–R1,500/month for childcare support
- Priority access to campus housing with child-friendly facilities
- Special counselling and academic mentorship programs
- Reduced academic load options in extreme family-care cases
Allowance Structure for Single Parent Applicants
| Category | Amount Per Month/Year | Applicable Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Childcare Allowance | R1,000 – R1,500/month | Requires birth certificate |
| Tuition Coverage | 100% of course fees | Based on registration and acceptance |
| Living Allowance | R1,650/month | Based on total income assessment |
| Book & Materials Support | R5,200/year | For prescribed learning materials only |
| Housing Support | Full coverage | If in accredited accommodation |
| Transport Support | R625/month | Only if student lives 10km+ from institution |
Impact of the Rule on 2025 NSFAS Budget and Students
NSFAS has allocated additional funding to accommodate this rule without compromising support to other student groups.
Key Impacts:
- Estimated R120 million earmarked for divorced student aid
- Expected 18,000 new applicants under this category in 2025
- Improved retention rates among mature students
- Enhanced mental and academic well-being among single parents
- Increase in applications from older female students
What If You Applied Before the Rule Was Announced?
If you are already registered or applied before this August 2025 update, you can still amend your application to include your updated marital status.
How to Update an Existing NSFAS Application
- Log in to your MyNSFAS portal
- Go to “Update Personal Information”
- Select “Marital Status” and update it to “Divorced”
- Upload divorce decree and new financial documents
- Save and re-submit the application for reassessment
Timeline for Amendment Processing
| Date of Amendment | Expected Reassessment Period | Approval Notification Date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 – 10 August | 3–5 working days | 15 August 2025 |
| 11 – 20 August | 5–7 working days | 22 August 2025 |
| 21 – 31 August | 7–10 working days | 5 September 2025 |
Departmental Contact Details for Assistance
For students needing help during the process, NSFAS and Department of Higher Education offices are ready to assist.
NSFAS Head Office
- Phone: 08000 67327 (toll-free)
- Email: info@nsfas.org.za
- Website: www.nsfas.org.za
- Office Address: 10 Brodie Road, Wynberg, Cape Town, 7700
Regional Department of Higher Education (DHET)
- Eastern Cape: 043 702 7400 – dhet-ec@dhet.gov.za
- Gauteng: 011 403 2813 – dhet-gt@dhet.gov.za
- KwaZulu-Natal: 031 366 2000 – dhet-kzn@dhet.gov.za
- Western Cape: 021 467 2000 – dhet-wc@dhet.gov.za
FAQs of New NSFAS Rule
1. Can I apply for NSFAS if my divorce is still in process?
No, only legally divorced applicants with documentation can apply under this rule.
2. Will I still qualify if I remarry after applying?
No, remarriage changes your financial status and may disqualify you from the divorced applicant category.
3. Is the childcare allowance available for all divorced parents?
Only if the child is legally in your custody and under 18 years old.
4. Can I use this aid for part-time studies?
NSFAS primarily supports full-time studies; exceptions may apply on a case-by-case basis.
5. What if my application is rejected under the divorced rule?
You can appeal within 30 days and provide additional supporting documents.