How Much Does NSFAS Pay 2026

How Much Does NSFAS Pay 2026

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) plays a big role in making higher education more accessible for students in South Africa. Its main goal is to support students from low-income families by covering the costs of their studies at universities and TVET colleges. This help makes it possible for many young South Africans to achieve their academic dreams without having to worry too much about how to pay for their education.

If you’re planning to apply for NSFAS or have already been approved, one of the first questions you might have is, “How much does NSFAS pay?” This is a very common concern, and it’s vital to know what kind of assistance you can expect. NSFAS doesn’t just pay for tuition — it can also cover other important costs like accommodation, meals, learning materials, and transport, depending on your situation and where you’re studying.

In this complete guide, we’ll explain in simple terms how NSFAS payments work, who qualifies for this kind of financial assistance, and what steps you need to take to apply. Whether you’re just starting your application or you’ve already received funding, knowing how NSFAS works will help you plan better for your academic journey.

Learn more: NSFAS For TVET College

Qualification Requirements For NSFAS

To be eligible for NSFAS pay, you must meet the requirements provided below;

• All South African citizens
• All SASSA grant recipients qualify for funding
• Applicants whose combined household income is not more than R350,000 per annum
• Person with disability: Combined household income must not be more than R600,000 per annum
• Students who started studying before 2018, whose household income is not more than R122,000 per annum. How Much Does NSFAS Pay 2026

NSFAS Allowances for 2026

NSFAS offers financial assistance to cover tuition fees, accommodation, and other essential study-related expenses. Below is the amount paid for expenses at TEVT Colleges and Universities;

UNIVERSITY

• Accommodation
• As per the actual costs charged by the university (costs for private accommodation must not be more than the costs for university residence)
• Transport (up to 40 km from the institution) R7,500 per year
• Living allowance R15, 000  per year
• Book allowances of R5200 per year
• Incidental/personal care allowance of R2900 per year for students in catered residences

TVET

• Accommodation in an urban area is R24,000 per year
• Accommodation in a peri-urban area R18,900 per year
• Accommodation in a rural area is R15,750 per year
• Transport (up to 40 km from the institution) R7,350  per year
• Transport R7000 per year
• Incidental/personal care allowance R2900 per year

Supporting documents required for NSFAS

NSFAS needs information to confirm the employment and income of an applicant’s parents, guardians, or spouse.

• NSFAS Declaration Form: completed by the school principal or social worker. (Non-SASSA only)
• Orphan and Vulnerable Child Declaration Form: completed by a social worker for applicants under 18. (Non-SASSA only)
• NSFAS Consent Form: signed by the applicant and/or parent, guardian, or spouse. (Not needed for SASSA recipients)
• If the applicant has a legal guardian, court-issued proof is required.
• For non-court-appointed guardians, submit the NSFAS Declaration Form.

Learn more: How Often NSFAS Pay For College Students 2026

Application Process For NSFAS 2026

To apply for NSFAS funding, follow these steps:

• Visit the NSFAS website at www.nsfas.org.za and create an account.
• Complete the online application form with accurate and up-to-date information.
• Upload the required supporting documents, including proof of income and academic records.
• Submit your completed application form along with supporting documents before the closing date
• Await the outcome of your application, which may take some time to process.

Take Note: If your application is approved, you’ll receive a notification from NSFAS outlining the details of your funding package, including the amount you’ll receive and any additional support you may be qualified for.

Contact NSFAS

Email: info@nsfas.org.za
Facebook: National Student Financial Aid Scheme
Twitter: @myNSFAS
Instagram: @myNSFAS
WhatsApp: +27 78 519 8006
USSD:*120*67327#

Visit the official NSFAS website for more information.

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