NSFAS Divorce Law Relief – In a landmark decision aimed at promoting equity in higher education, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has announced a groundbreaking divorce law relief policy for August 2025. This new regulation allows students from separated or divorced households to receive additional financial assistance, offering long-overdue support to a previously overlooked group of learners. With thousands of South African students struggling due to family legal issues and financial instability, this announcement is expected to bring relief and renewed hope to many. The policy revision ensures that students who have faced hardship as a result of parental separation or divorce can now declare their updated household status and apply for extra NSFAS aid. Previously, students often faced rejection or insufficient support because they were assessed based on outdated household incomes that did not reflect their current living conditions. The new criteria aim to bridge this gap and promote fairness in fund allocation. NSFAS has stated that this update is part of a broader effort to improve inclusivity and tailor aid packages to real-life family dynamics. Students will now have a dedicated application process for “Divorce Relief Aid” beginning in August 2025, with immediate rollout across all provinces.
What Is the NSFAS Divorce Law Relief Policy for August 2025?
The new divorce relief policy by NSFAS provides financial support to students whose parents are legally separated or divorced, acknowledging the shift in household income and support systems.
- Applicable from August 1, 2025, across all public institutions
- Applies to both undergraduate and postgraduate NSFAS beneficiaries
- Offers top-up funds for tuition, living allowances, and accommodation
- Requires legal proof of divorce or separation
- Targets students affected by parental divorce post-NSFAS approval
Key Eligibility Requirements for Divorce-Based NSFAS Aid
To qualify for the newly announced divorce law relief, students must meet specific criteria laid out by NSFAS.
- Must already be a registered NSFAS beneficiary or new applicant
- At least one parent or guardian must be legally divorced or separated
- Divorce must have occurred within the last 24 months
- Proof of legal documents: Divorce Decree or Legal Separation Order
- Updated household income documentation is required
- Student must be under the age of 35 at the time of application
- Institution of study must be public and registered with NSFAS
- Satisfactory academic progress is a must
Required Documentation for NSFAS Divorce Law Relief
Applicants need to submit a new set of supporting documents that clearly validate their changed financial circumstances due to a divorce or separation.
| Document Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Certified Divorce Decree | Final legal document showing parental divorce |
| Affidavit of Separation | For legal separations without final divorce |
| Updated ID Copies | Of both parents/guardians and the student |
| Household Income Proof | Updated payslips, pension slips, or SASSA letters |
| Bank Statements | Of all contributing household members |
| Academic Results | Latest term results to show academic standing |
| Proof of Residence | Confirming new living situation post-divorce |
| NSFAS Application Form | Special “Divorce Relief Aid” form available online |
How to Apply for NSFAS Divorce Relief in August 2025
NSFAS has simplified the process to make sure students from divorced households can apply without delays.
- Log in to the NSFAS student portal at www.nsfas.org.za
- Download the “Divorce Relief Aid” application form
- Fill in updated personal and household information
- Upload required documents listed above
- Submit the application before the deadline: August 31, 2025
- Await status update via SMS or portal within 14–21 days
Financial Benefits Offered Under Divorce Relief
Students eligible for this relief can expect top-up funds in various categories, aimed at making academic life more manageable post-divorce.
| Expense Type | Standard NSFAS Value | Divorce Relief Top-Up |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | Full Coverage | No Change |
| Living Allowance | R16,500 per year | +R3,000 extra |
| Accommodation Allowance | R24,000 per year | +R5,000 extra |
| Transport | R7,500 per year | +R1,500 extra |
| Learning Materials | R5,200 per year | +R1,000 extra |
| Food Stipend | R10,000 per year | +R2,000 extra |
| Psychological Support | Not included | 5 Free Counseling Sessions |
| Laptop/Device Support | Once-off R5,200 | +R1,500 for accessories |
Impact of the Policy on South African Students
This move by NSFAS is expected to significantly reduce dropout rates and mental health challenges among affected students.
- Enables continuation of studies without financial strain
- Reduces reliance on part-time jobs or loans
- Acknowledges real-world social dynamics in funding models
- Opens emotional support options through added counseling
- Encourages transparency in family situations without stigma
Departmental Contacts for NSFAS Divorce Relief Assistance
If you need help or more clarity on the divorce relief process, NSFAS has established dedicated channels to assist applicants.
| Department | Contact Person | Phone Number | Email Address |
|---|---|---|---|
| NSFAS Divorce Aid Unit | Ms. Thando Molefe | 0800 067 327 | divorceaid@nsfas.org.za |
| Student Support & Complaints | Mr. Sipho Ndlovu | 0860 067 327 | support@nsfas.org.za |
| Legal Documentation Desk | Mrs. Lerato Dlamini | 021 763 3200 | legaldesk@nsfas.org.za |
| Technical Portal Assistance | IT Help Team | 021 763 3232 | techhelp@nsfas.org.za |
| Financial Queries | Mr. Bheki Makhubela | 011 234 4432 | finance@nsfas.org.za |
This initiative marks a critical step toward a more inclusive and socially responsive student aid system in South Africa. While challenges remain, NSFAS’s new Divorce Relief Aid policy sets a precedent for recognizing the financial and emotional toll of family changes on students—and for doing something about it.
FAQs of NSFAS Divorce Law Relief
1. Can I apply if my parents divorced more than 2 years ago?
No, the policy only applies to divorces within the last 24 months.
2. Is the divorce relief available to postgraduate students?
Yes, both undergraduates and postgraduates at public institutions are eligible.
3. Will my NSFAS funding increase automatically if I qualify?
No, you must submit the special Divorce Relief Aid application and documents.
4. Can I submit a legal separation affidavit instead of a divorce decree?
Yes, if the separation is recognized legally and properly documented.
5. When will I receive the top-up funds after approval?
Payments will be processed within 14–30 working days post-approval.