NSFAS Monthly Allowance 2026

The NSFAS Monthly Allowance is a financial support program run by the South African government to help students who are studying at public universities and TVET colleges. This allowance is given to students who qualify based on certain financial criteria, so they can get some money every month while they are studying. The main goal of this allowance is to ease the financial burden on students and their families. Many students face challenges paying for things like food, accommodation, transport, and other daily expenses.

With this monthly help from NSFAS, they can focus more on their studies instead of worrying about how to cover these costs. NSFAS, which stands for the National Student Financial Aid Scheme, has been very important in making higher education more accessible for many young people in South Africa. Without this kind of support, many students might not be able to afford to attend university or college. NSFAS covers tuition fees and also offers a monthly allowance to help with living expenses, which makes a big difference.

This program is part of the government’s effort to improve education and give more chances to students from low-income families. By helping students financially, NSFAS hopes to see more young people complete their studies and go on to build better futures for themselves and their communities. If you qualify for NSFAS, it means you have a chance to get financial support that will help you succeed in your education without being overwhelmed by money problems.

Learn more: NSFAS Unisa Allowances 2026

NSFAS Allowance General Information for 2026

Beneficiaries of NSFAS must note the following;

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.

How Much Is the NSFAS Monthly Allowance in 2026?

The amount of the NSFAS Monthly Allowance varies depending on several criteria, including the student’s financial need, the institution they attend, and the sort of qualification they are seeking. The allowance amount is subject to annual adjustment to account for price increases and other economic considerations. Below are some of the things NSFAS covers and the amounts allocated;

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

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

Who Is Eligible for the NSFAS Monthly Allowance?

The NSFAS Monthly Allowance is intended to give financial assistance to South African students who satisfy certain conditions. To be eligible for this allowance in 2026, the applicant must:

South African citizens or permanent residents
SASSA grant recipients
Applicants whose combined gross household income is not more than R350,000 per year
Persons with disabilities whose combined gross household income is not more than R600,000 per year.
Must have an email account and cell phone number.

Who Does Not Qualify For the NSFAS Allowance 2026?

You are not eligible to apply for NSFAS funds if you fall under any of the following categories;

Students who have received 100% study funding from non-NSFAS sources.
A student who has already obtained an undergraduate qualification and wants to study for a second undergraduate qualification.
A student who has achieved a certificate qualification and wants to study for a second certificate qualification.
Students studying at a private institution.
Students enrolled for qualifications that are not approved by DHET and/or SAQA-accredited.

Learn more: Does NSFAS Fund 2 Courses 2026?

How to Receive Your NSFAS Monthly Allowance

To receive your NSFAS monthly allowance, follow these procedures:

Have a Bank Account

Make sure your bank details are correct and verified by NSFAS. UNISA students will get updates via their myLife email.

Go to www.my.nsfas.org.za and log in. If you don’t have an account, create one.

Update Bank Details

In your profile, enter your bank info carefully. NSFAS will verify it quickly.

Know Payment Dates

For TVET students, allowances are paid monthly. Submit your registration on time to avoid delays.

Check Your Allowance

Once verified, NSFAS will pay your allowance into your bank account. You can track payments via online banking.

NSFAS Contact Details

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 South African students seeking higher education, the NSFAS Monthly Allowance for 2026 is a lifesaver. Visit the official website of NSFAS for more information. I hope the provided information is helpful. Share your thoughts below in the comment section.

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