NSFAS SRD Grant – As July 2025 progresses, thousands of NSFAS-funded students receiving the R370 Social Relief of Distress (SRD) Grant are facing a critical deadline. The South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) and the Department of Higher Education have issued an urgent alert, calling on all NSFAS beneficiaries to immediately reverify their ID details or risk forfeiting their monthly R370 payment. This verification step is now mandatory due to a recent policy update aimed at curbing fraudulent claims and ensuring that only eligible recipients continue receiving support. Students across universities and TVET colleges are urged to take action, as failure to complete the process by the end of July could lead to grant suspension or permanent removal from the system. The verification process is straightforward but time-sensitive. It involves updating your ID details through official government platforms, either via the SASSA website, NSFAS student portal, or selected campus offices. While many have already complied, tens of thousands remain at risk simply because they have yet to receive or respond to the SMS or email alerts prompting them to act. This issue has sparked concern among student bodies and civil rights organizations, who are calling for clearer communication and extended deadlines. But as of now, the deadline remains firm—making it essential for every NSFAS SRD grant recipient to act immediately. In this article, we will guide you through everything you need to know, including who needs to verify, how to do it, what documents are required, and what happens if you miss the deadline. We’ll also provide official sources, contact details, and frequently asked questions to ensure you don’t get left behind.
Why the July 2025 ID Reverification is Urgent
NSFAS and SASSA have tightened regulations to prevent identity fraud and ensure that only qualifying students continue to receive the R370 SRD grant.
- Identity mismatches have led to delays or payment suspensions.
- Over 150,000 students are flagged for immediate reverification.
- Deadline for completing the process is 31 July 2025.
Key Reasons for the New Verification Policy
These are the main motivations behind this new policy push from the government:
- Rise in fraudulent applications using invalid ID numbers.
- Mismatched data between NSFAS and SASSA databases.
- Regular compliance audit scheduled for August 2025.
- Revalidation helps ensure accurate fund allocation.
Who Needs to Reverify Their ID?
Not all NSFAS students are affected, but those flagged in the SASSA system for inconsistencies or missing information are required to reverify.
- Students who received an SMS or email from SASSA or NSFAS.
- Beneficiaries with suspended payments in June 2025.
- Anyone whose ID document was recently updated or replaced.
- First-time grant recipients who didn’t verify during onboarding.
Common Triggers for Reverification
If any of the following applies to you, reverification is mandatory:
- Changed surname due to marriage or legal process.
- Recently turned 18 and now use an adult ID.
- Duplicate records or identity conflict.
- Cross-border ID validation issues.
How to Reverify Your ID for the R370 Grant
There are several ways to complete the ID reverification process before the deadline. Choose the one that suits you best and act now.
- Online via SASSA Website: Use the ID verification tool on www.sassa.gov.za.
- NSFAS Student Portal: Log in and update your ID details under the “Personal Details” tab.
- Campus Financial Aid Office: Visit your university’s NSFAS help desk.
- Walk-in SASSA Offices: Carry a certified copy of your ID and any supporting documents.
Required Documents for Successful ID Reverifications
Ensure you have the following to avoid delays:
| Document Type | Required Format | Issuing Authority | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| South African ID Book/Card | Original or certified | Home Affairs | Must be valid and unexpired |
| Proof of Enrollment | Official Letter/Slip | Institution/NSFAS | Must show current registration |
| Proof of Address | Utility bill/Lease | Any official source | Not older than 3 months |
| Birth Certificate (if under 18) | Original or certified | Home Affairs | Used for newly enrolled minors |
| Marriage Certificate | Certified Copy | Home Affairs | Only if surname has changed |
| NSFAS Reference Number | Digital or physical | NSFAS | Required during office visits |
| Confirmation SMS/Email | Screenshot/Print | SASSA/NSFAS | Proves you were contacted |
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?
If your reverification is not completed by 31 July 2025, you could lose your grant eligibility. Here’s what that means for you:
- Grant suspension from August 2025.
- Potential full disqualification from SRD assistance.
- Difficulty in reapplying for future grants.
- Academic impact due to lack of financial support.
Possible Extensions or Appeals
Though the deadline is firm, there are some options if you act quickly:
- Submit a written appeal via NSFAS portal.
- Visit a SASSA office and apply for a 7-day extension.
- Request assistance from your campus financial aid office.
How the ID Verification System Works
SASSA and NSFAS use a cross-checking algorithm with Home Affairs data to confirm the authenticity of every ID submitted.
- Once verified, your grant continues automatically.
- Failed verifications will receive follow-up notices.
- Any document mismatch will flag the account.
Tracking Your Verification Status
Here’s how you can check if your reverification was successful:
| Platform | How to Check | Time to Update Status | Action If Pending |
|---|---|---|---|
| NSFAS Portal | “My Status” section | 24–48 hours after submission | Re-upload documents |
| SASSA Website | Use ID check tool | 3–5 working days | Contact SASSA if no update |
| Campus Aid Office | In-person confirmation | Immediate | Bring physical ID copies |
| SASSA SMS Notification | Check phone for message | Usually within 72 hours | Follow instructions in SMS |
Special Cases and Common Challenges
Certain students face more verification issues than others. Here’s a closer look.
Foreign Nationals with Study Permits
Students from other countries studying under NSFAS bursaries may face extra scrutiny.
- Must submit passport, study visa, and Home Affairs certification.
- Additional documents may be required if enrolled in postgraduate studies.
Students in Remote or Rural Areas
Limited internet and office access are key challenges in these regions.
- Mobile SASSA offices are now visiting select campuses weekly.
- NSFAS recommends using campus Wi-Fi to complete online verification.
Students with Disabilities
SASSA and NSFAS have set up accessible support channels for those who may need assistance with the verification process.
- Toll-free call center now has sign-language interpreters.
- Campus aid offices offer in-person document scanning and upload support.
Lost or Expired ID Documents
If you’ve recently lost your ID or it’s expired:
- Apply for a temporary ID at Home Affairs.
- Use the confirmation receipt as a substitute for verification.
- Submit a signed affidavit explaining the situation.
NSFAS + SASSA Reverification Helpline
Department: South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) & National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS)
Issue: ID Reverification Required for R370 SRD Grant
Deadline: Before 31 July 2025
SASSA Call Centre: 0800 60 10 11 (Toll-Free)
NSFAS Contact: 0860 067 327
Email: [email protected] | [email protected]
Offices: Visit your nearest SASSA or NSFAS office for biometric or ID revalidation
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is the last date for NSFAS ID reverification?
A1: The last date is 31 July 2025. Any updates after that may not be processed in time to receive the August grant.
Q2: I didn’t receive an SMS. Do I still need to verify?
A2: If your payment was disrupted or you’ve recently changed any personal details, it’s safer to verify.
Q3: Can I verify using someone else’s phone or email?
A3: Yes, but make sure to use your own ID and NSFAS login credentials to avoid complications.
Q4: What happens if I submit incorrect or unclear documents?
A4: Your verification will fail, and you’ll be notified to re-upload clearer documents.
Q5: How long does it take for the verification to be processed?
A5: Processing typically takes between 24 hours and 5 working days.
Q6: Can I do this on my phone?
A6: Yes, both the NSFAS and SASSA platforms are mobile-friendly.
Q7: Will this affect my NSFAS bursary or just the SRD grant?
A7: The current reverification affects only the SRD R370 grant, not your tuition or NSFAS bursary directly.