R400 Monthly Internet Grant – The South African government has officially launched a groundbreaking initiative to provide digital support to students across the country — the R400 Monthly Internet Grant. Starting from 20 July, this grant is designed to bridge the digital divide and ensure that no student is left behind due to lack of access to online education resources. With the increasing demand for online learning, digital textbooks, and virtual classrooms, this R400 monthly assistance aims to empower students, especially those from underprivileged households, by giving them affordable and consistent internet access. In a country where data costs remain one of the highest in the world, the initiative is a much-needed relief for learners who depend heavily on mobile data or inconsistent Wi-Fi to attend online classes, download course material, and stay connected with educators. The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), in collaboration with the Department of Communications and Digital Technologies (DCDT), has rolled out this digital support scheme as part of the broader National Student Support Programme (NSSP). Eligible students who apply through the official platform will receive R400 per month directly to their e-wallets or bank accounts, designated strictly for internet and data usage. The scheme will benefit students from both public universities and TVET colleges, provided they meet specific eligibility criteria, including enrollment status and household income thresholds. Here’s a comprehensive guide covering all key details, including eligibility requirements, application form access, disbursement schedule, and FAQs.
Who Can Apply for the R400 Monthly Internet Grant?
The grant has specific eligibility rules to ensure it reaches students who truly need it. This section breaks down the criteria that determine who qualifies.
- South African citizen or permanent resident
- Currently enrolled in a public university or TVET college
- Must not be a recipient of any full-cost NSFAS bursary for internet/data
- Combined household income must be less than R350,000 per annum
- Must have a valid South African ID and active mobile number
- Must have access to a personal device (phone, tablet, or laptop)
- Must agree to use the grant solely for data/internet usage
Key Dates, Deadlines, and Disbursement Schedule
The application window and payment schedule are vital for all prospective applicants. Below is a detailed table of important dates:
| Event | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Application Start Date | 20 July 2025 | Forms available online and at campus help desks |
| First Payment Disbursement | 1 August 2025 | R400 paid into bank/e-wallet after verification |
| Monthly Payment Frequency | 1st of each month | R400 for each month while enrolled |
| Final Application Deadline | 20 August 2025 | No applications accepted after this date |
| Eligibility Verification Cutoff | 25 July 2025 | All documents must be uploaded by this date |
| Scheme Review & Audit | 30 October 2025 | Scheme evaluated for extension or closure |
| Contact Centre Support Active | 20 July – 30 Sep | Helpline open for queries related to application |
How to Fill Out the Application Form for R400 Monthly Internet Grant
Applying for the R400 monthly internet support is a simple, step-by-step process. Students can complete the process online or in person.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply
Follow these steps carefully to ensure your application is accepted and processed smoothly:
- Visit the official website: www.internetgrant.gov.za
- Click on “Apply for Student Internet Grant”
- Register using your ID number, full name, and mobile number
- Upload required documents (ID proof, proof of enrollment, income affidavit)
- Confirm your device ownership (laptop/phone)
- Choose payment method: bank account or e-wallet
- Submit and wait for confirmation SMS/email within 5 working days
Documents Required
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Proof of registration (university/TVET letter or fee slip)
- Proof of income or affidavit if unemployed
- Bank statement or mobile wallet details
Application Review and Approval Process
Once an application is submitted, it goes through a verification process. Here’s how the approval pipeline works.
Verification Timeline
All applications undergo a multi-step verification for fairness and efficiency.
- Step 1: Automatic document scanning (24 hours)
- Step 2: Cross-check with national student database (48 hours)
- Step 3: Income verification through SASSA or SARS (if applicable)
- Step 4: Device ownership confirmation (optional audit)
- Step 5: Final approval and payment setup (2-3 working days)
If any information is missing, applicants will be notified via SMS/email with instructions for resubmission.
How Will the Grant Be Paid?
Payment logistics are one of the most important aspects of this scheme. The government has ensured multiple safe payment options for all students.
Payment Options and Conditions
Choose from two secure payment channels:
- Bank Transfer: Direct deposit into applicant’s South African bank account.
- Mobile Wallet: Transfer to e-wallets like eZaga, TymeBank, or Capitec Connect.
Note: Grant funds can only be used for internet and data expenses. Misuse of funds may result in disqualification from future government benefits.
Benefits of the R400 Monthly Internet Grant
This internet grant brings many advantages beyond just financial relief. Here’s what makes it impactful:
- Supports online lectures, assignments, and e-learning platforms
- Reduces academic dropout rates linked to digital poverty
- Enables access to digital libraries, research tools, and educational apps
- Encourages digital inclusion for rural and township students
- Enhances academic performance through consistent connectivity
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Applying
Many applications get rejected due to avoidable errors. Here’s how to keep your application error-free:
- Double-check all uploaded documents are certified and legible
- Ensure ID and registration number match across forms
- Submit before deadline to avoid system errors
- Do not enter incorrect bank or mobile wallet information
- Avoid applying multiple times from different devices
Comparison Table: Internet Costs vs Grant Benefit
To understand how this grant supports students, here’s a quick comparison of current average internet costs and how far R400 goes monthly.
| Internet Package Type | Average Monthly Cost | Covered by Grant (R400)? |
|---|---|---|
| 5GB Data Bundle (Mobile) | R160 | Yes |
| 10GB Data (Mobile) | R250 | Yes |
| 20GB Wi-Fi (Household) | R390 | Yes |
| 50GB Uncapped Plan | R600 | Partially |
| Campus Wi-Fi Subscription | R100 (if applicable) | Yes + balance for mobile |
| Public Hotspot Packages | R150 | Yes |
| Educational Bundle Offers | R200 | Yes |
This R400 Monthly Internet Grant represents a progressive step toward digital equality in South Africa’s education system. With the application form now live and payments beginning in August, students are urged to apply immediately and ensure their documents are in order before the cut-off. Stay updated through the official website and help desks at your institution. This is your opportunity to connect, learn, and thrive — all with the power of reliable internet access.
FAQs on the R400 Monthly Internet Grant
Q1. Is this a one-time grant or monthly support?
This is a monthly grant of R400, available as long as the student remains enrolled.
Q2. Can private university students apply?
No. The grant is limited to public universities and TVET colleges only.
Q3. What happens if I don’t receive payment by 1st August?
Contact the support helpline or log into the application portal to check your status.
Q4. Can I change my payment method after applying?
Yes, but only before the verification deadline (25 July 2025).
Q5. What if I use the grant for non-internet purposes?
Random audits may lead to disqualification and blacklisting from future schemes.
Q6. Is there an age limit to apply?
There is no upper age limit, but applicants must be enrolled as full-time or part-time students.
Q7. Can I apply if I already receive NSFAS?
Only if your NSFAS funding does not include a data or device allowance.