NSFAS Allowance 2026

NSFAS Allowance 2026

As the year 2026 approaches, South African students are waiting with excitement and a bit of anxiety to find out how much funding they will receive from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) for the next academic year. NSFAS is very important because it helps students who do not have enough money to pay for higher education on their own. With this support, many young people can follow their dreams of studying at a college or university.

NSFAS is a government program set up to give financial help to deserving students across South Africa. It provides funding to cover different costs that come with studying. These include tuition fees, which are the costs of attending classes, and money for textbooks and other learning resources. For students who live far from their families, NSFAS also helps pay for accommodation. Additionally, students get a monthly allowance to cover meals, transport, and other daily needs.

Every year, NSFAS reviews the allowances and makes adjustments if needed. The aim is to keep up with the increasing cost of living so that students have enough money to support themselves while studying. By increasing the allowances regularly, NSFAS ensures that students can concentrate on their education instead of worrying too much about financial problems. This support helps thousands of young South Africans move closer to building a successful and stable future.

Learn more: Who Does NSFAS Cover

NSFAS Allowance Important Information for 2026-2027

All allowances are paid over 10 months only.
The living allowance is R1,650 per month (for a total of 10 months) – this is a 10% increase from the academic year and is above inflation. The Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Dr Blade Nzimande, announced this increase as there has not been an increase in 3 years.
The living allowance of R16,500 includes the personal care allowance of R3,045.

Eligibility for NSFAS 2026 Allowances

To qualify for NSFAS funding, students must be;

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.

Types of NSFAS Allowances in 2026

Amounts indicated for accommodation, living allowance, transport, and learning materials need to be aligned with the latest approved DHET guidelines.

UNIVERSITY

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

Learn more: How Much Is Pocket Money For NSFAS 2026

TVET

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

Contact NSFAS

NSFAS Virtual Contact Centre

We are available to assist through the following channels:

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

For general, student, and NSFAS Wallet enquiries

For all other queries regarding students:
Tel No.: 08000 67327
Email: info@nsfas.org.za

Physical Address

The Halyard, 4 Christiaan Barnard St,
Cape Town City Centre,
Cape Town, 8001

The NSFAS allowance for 2026 is a lifeline for many South African students pursuing academic goals. NSFAS will continue to provide accessible and comprehensive financial assistance. Students may make the most of this wonderful opportunity by remaining educated and prepared. Visit the official website of NSFAS for more information. I hope the provided information is helpful. Share your thoughts below in the comment section.