New Divorce Law – In a groundbreaking move, South Africa’s updated Divorce Law has introduced a new clause that allows recently divorced or separated students to apply for additional financial assistance under the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS). This change, effective August 2025, is being hailed as a critical lifeline for thousands of students whose financial stability has been compromised due to family breakdowns. Until now, many students whose parents were undergoing divorce or legal separation were trapped in a grey area — neither fully dependent nor financially independent. These students often faced rejection or minimal funding because their family income did not accurately reflect their new reality. The Department of Higher Education, in partnership with the Department of Social Development, has recognized this gap and amended the eligibility criteria to accommodate the sudden and dramatic financial impact of a divorce or separation. This shift is not only timely but necessary, as student debt in South Africa continues to rise, and financial burdens often force young individuals to drop out. By integrating the new Divorce Law into the NSFAS application and reassessment process, the government aims to provide emergency financial relief, mental health support, and academic continuity for those in transition. The August 2025 application window has opened, and eligible students are urged to take immediate action to secure their funding before the semester begins. Let’s break down how this new system works and what students need to know.
What the New Divorce Law Means for NSFAS Applicants in August 2025
Under this amendment, any student whose parent(s) or legal guardian(s) divorced after January 2025 can now apply for additional NSFAS aid under a special provision.
- Applicable from: 1 August 2025
- Applies to: All university and TVET college students
- Divorce must be formalized through court or legal documentation
- Emergency aid includes: Tuition, living allowance, accommodation, transport
- Proof required: Divorce decree, affidavit, updated income documentation
- Priority processing: Applications reviewed within 10 working days
- Reassessment for existing NSFAS beneficiaries allowed
Key Features of Divorce-Based NSFAS Funding Adjustment
Here is a breakdown of the core benefits and documents required:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Scheme Type | Emergency Financial Relief |
| Effective From | 1 August 2025 |
| Required Documents | Divorce certificate, affidavits, updated income proof |
| Aid Coverage | Tuition, accommodation, meals, transport, learning materials |
| Processing Time | Within 10 working days (priority queue) |
| Reassessment for Existing Students | Yes – for those whose household status changed post-funding |
| Contact Channel | NSFAS Toll-Free, WhatsApp, Email |
| Application Deadline | 30 August 2025 |
Who Is Eligible for This Special NSFAS Provision?
Students must meet a specific set of eligibility criteria to qualify under the new divorce-related provision.
- You must be a South African citizen enrolled at a public university or TVET college
- At least one parent/legal guardian must have divorced or legally separated after January 1, 2025
- You must be able to demonstrate a drop in household income due to the divorce
- If you are already receiving NSFAS funding, your current bursary amount must be insufficient due to changed circumstances
- You must submit your application before 30 August 2025 for priority review
Common Scenarios That Now Qualify for NSFAS Divorce Relief
| Scenario | NSFAS Eligibility |
|---|---|
| Parents divorced in February 2025 | Yes |
| Guardian separation pending but not legal | No |
| Divorce occurred before 2025 | No |
| Parents divorced and student now homeless | Yes |
| Sibling of the student also applying | Separate review |
| Divorce-related income drop of 40% | Yes |
| Student in second year with existing NSFAS | Reassessment |
How to Apply for Divoce-Based NSFAS Emergency Aid
To ease the application process, NSFAS has introduced a simplified route via their online platform, WhatsApp, and direct support through universities.
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Visit the NSFAS online portal at www.nsfas.org.za
- Log into your MyNSFAS account or register if you are a new applicant
- Choose the ‘Emergency Reassessment – Divorce’ option
- Upload:
- Divorce decree or certificate
- Proof of income change (payslip, retrenchment letter, bank statement)
- Affidavit confirming household financial change
- Submit and receive a tracking number
- Wait for confirmation via email or SMS
- Attend follow-up interviews if required
Support Channels for Application
| Channel | Contact Details |
|---|---|
| NSFAS Toll-Free | 0800 067 327 |
| WhatsApp Line | +27 78 519 8006 |
| divorcefunding@nsfas.org.za | |
| In-Person Support | At your university’s Financial Aid Office |
| Online Portal | www.nsfas.org.za |
What to Do if You’re Already Funded by NSFAS But Household Status Changed
Many students who were funded before August 2025 may now find themselves in financial distress due to their parent’s divorce. NSFAS is allowing a special mid-term reassessment for these students.
Reassessment Requirements
- Submit a reassessment request through MyNSFAS portal
- Include updated household documentation
- Reassessments take up to 10 days
NSFAS Mid-Term Reassessment Timeline
| Task | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Reassessment Request Submission | 1–10 August 2025 |
| Documentation Upload Deadline | 12 August 2025 |
| Verification Process | 3–5 working days |
| Final Decision Notification | 18 August 2025 |
| Funds Adjustment/Top-Up Transfer | By 25 August 2025 |
Departmental Contacts and Additional Support Services
For further guidance, students can reach out to both NSFAS and the Department of Social Development’s new divorce transition support teams.
Contact Information
| Department | Contact Person | Phone Number | Email Address |
|---|---|---|---|
| NSFAS National Office | General Inquiries | 0800 067 327 | info@nsfas.org.za |
| Divorce Aid Support Team | Ms. L. Mathebula | 012 312 5231 | divorcehelp@dsd.gov.za |
| Department of Higher Education | Mr. B. Mahlangu | 012 441 5700 | queries@dhet.gov.za |
| University Financial Aid Office | Student Desk Officer | Campus-Specific | financialaid@[university].ac.za |
Additional Hints to Strengthen Your Application
While applying, make sure you take these precautions to ensure fast and successful approval:
- Ensure all documents are signed and legible
- Use your student number in all uploaded documents
- Double-check your contact details
- Track your application daily
- Contact NSFAS immediately if your status remains unchanged for over 10 days
FAQs – Divorce-Based NSFAS Funding in August 2025
Q1. Can I apply if my parents are separated but not divorced?
Only legal divorces finalized through court will be accepted at this time.
Q2. Will I get the same amount of funding as new applicants?
Yes, if your situation qualifies, you may receive full benefits similar to first-time applicants.
Q3. How long does the reassessment process take?
Typically, 7–10 working days after all documents are submitted.
Q4. Can I apply if I am already in final year?
Yes, the emergency provision applies to all years of study.
Q5. What happens if my application is rejected?
You can appeal the decision within 14 days with additional supporting evidence.