NSFAS Allowance – The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has announced that students will begin receiving a R1,500 Student Living Allowance from 3 September 2025. This financial relief comes as a much-needed support system for thousands of tertiary students across South Africa. However, in order to ensure smooth disbursement, students are urgently required to update their bank details by today. As the cost of living continues to rise, especially for students from disadvantaged backgrounds, this allowance serves as a lifeline. The announcement has been met with excitement, but also concern among those who have yet to submit or update their banking details. Many students depend on NSFAS to cover daily essentials including food, transport, and basic academic supplies. Missing the deadline to update banking information could delay their payments significantly. The Student Living Allowance is part of NSFAS’s broader initiative to promote academic success by ensuring students have the means to live with dignity. This allowance is separate from tuition or accommodation fees and is strictly meant to support day-to-day living expenses. The deadline for bank detail updates is extremely critical. Failure to act now may result in students missing the 3 September disbursement. NSFAS urges students to log into their myNSFAS portal and verify all banking information as soon as possible. Students are encouraged to take this notice seriously and ensure they are compliant with the latest NSFAS requirements to avoid any disruptions to their financial aid. Below, we break down everything you need to know about the allowance, eligibility, banking updates, and what comes next.
What Is the NSFAS Allowance?
The Student Living Allowance is a monthly financial grant offered by NSFAS to assist eligible students with daily living expenses.
- It is provided in addition to tuition and accommodation funding.
- The allowance is aimed at covering food, transport, and personal essentials.
- Starting 3 September 2025, students will receive R1,500 monthly.
- Only students with verified bank details will receive payment.
- The allowance applies to both university and TVET college students.
Key Features of the September 2025 NSFAS Allowance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Allowance Type | Student Living Allowance |
| Amount | R1,500 |
| Disbursement Start Date | 3 September 2025 |
| Eligibility | NSFAS-funded university and TVET students |
| Bank Details Required? | Yes |
| Update Deadline | 12 July 2025 |
| Platform for Update | myNSFAS Portal |
| Monthly Continuation | Yes, for eligible ongoing students |
Urgent: Deadline to Update Bank Details Is Today
With the disbursement set to start on 3 September, NSFAS has given a strict deadline of 12 July 2025 for all students to update their bank details.
- Visit the official myNSFAS portal immediately.
- Login using your ID number and password.
- Check and update your banking details under the “Banking Details” section.
- Ensure the bank account is in your name and active.
- Submit and double-check that confirmation is received.
Step-by-Step: How to Update Your Banking Info
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Log in to your myNSFAS account |
| 2 | Navigate to the “Banking Details” tab |
| 3 | Enter the correct bank account details |
| 4 | Ensure the account is under your own name |
| 5 | Click “Submit” and wait for confirmation |
| 6 | Check email/SMS for successful update verification |
| 7 | Contact NSFAS support if you do not receive confirmation |
Who Is Eligible for the R1,500 Living Allowance?
Eligibility for the Student Living Allowance is not automatic. Only certain NSFAS-funded students qualify.
- Must be a currently funded NSFAS student in 2025.
- Must be enrolled at a public university or TVET college.
- Students must have passed at least 50% of their modules in 2024.
- You must not be receiving another full scholarship.
- Bank account should be in your name.
Categories of Students Eligible for Payment
| Student Type | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|
| University Students | Enrolled full-time, NSFAS-funded |
| TVET College Students | NSFAS-approved and in an accredited programme |
| Returning Students | Continuing students with academic progress |
| First-Year Students | Newly approved and enrolled students |
| Distance Learning Students | Subject to specific NSFAS rules |
| Final Year Students | Eligible if still academically registered |
| Postgraduate Funded Students | If NSFAS funding was approved for current year |
Common Issues That Delay Allowance Payments
Even eligible students may face delays if there are administrative errors or missing information.
- Incorrect or outdated banking details.
- Use of third-party bank accounts (parent, friend, etc.)
- Bank account closed or not activated.
- Missing documents or ID verification.
- Late registration at institution.
Tips to Avoid Payment Delays
| Tip | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Always use your own bank account | Prevents third-party complications |
| Double-check account number | Typos can block payment entirely |
| Avoid using Capitec e-wallets | Not supported for NSFAS disbursements |
| Confirm your registration status | Must be registered as a student with your institution |
| Update details before deadline | Ensures payment for the September disbursement |
NSFAS Living Allowance: What Can It Be Used For?
The R1,500 monthly allowance is not free spending money. It’s meant to support your academic life.
- Daily meals and groceries
- Local transport to campus
- Toiletries and personal hygiene
- Printing and academic resources
- Minor medical expenses (not covered by other insurance)
Recommended Monthly Budget Breakdown
| Expense Type | Estimated Monthly Cost (R) |
|---|---|
| Groceries | R600 |
| Transport | R300 |
| Toiletries | R150 |
| Printing/Academic | R200 |
| Emergency/Other | R250 |
NSFAS continues to play a vital role in ensuring financial stability for students pursuing higher education. The R1,500 living allowance starting from September 3, 2025, is a step forward in making education more accessible and manageable. But it’s the student’s responsibility to ensure that administrative requirements like banking information are completed on time. Any delay may result in missed payments, which could impact academic success. Stay proactive, stay informed, and make sure your bank details are updated today.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I receive the allowance if I haven’t updated my banking details?
No. Only students with verified and up-to-date bank information will receive the R1,500 allowance.
2. What if I miss the 12 July 2025 deadline to update banking details?
You may miss the September 3 disbursement. However, once your bank details are updated, future payments may resume.
3. Will the R1,500 be paid every month after September?
Yes, for the remainder of the academic year, as long as the student remains eligible.
4. What banks are accepted by NSFAS for payments?
All major South African banks are accepted. The account must be in your name and active.
5. How will I know that my payment has been made?
You will receive an SMS or email notification once payment is successfully processed.
6. Can I use someone else’s bank account?
No. Payments will only be made to bank accounts registered under the student’s name.
7. What should I do if I’m unsure about my eligibility?
Log in to your myNSFAS account or contact NSFAS directly for assistance.
8. Will the allowance be backdated if I update details late?
This is not guaranteed. NSFAS may or may not backdate missed payments, so updating early is crucial.