Demystifying NSFAS Allowances for Unisa Students. Unisa, short for the University of South Africa, offers a unique learning experience due to its distance education model. For Unisa students, accessing financial support through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) raises questions about the nature and amount of allowances they receive.
Unisa: A Unique Distance Learning Experience
Unisa employs Open and Distance Learning (ODL), enabling students to pursue their degrees, diplomas, and certificates using online resources and materials provided by the university. However, some Unisa courses may require students to attend workshops and tutorials outside their homes.
NSFAS and Its Role in Student Funding
NSFAS, or the National Student Financial Aid Scheme, is responsible for providing bursaries to students from public universities and colleges who come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
NSFAS Support for Unisa Courses
NSFAS extends its support to Unisa students, but the allocation of allowances differs due to the unique teaching approach of the university compared to traditional institutions.
Types of NSFAS Allowances for Unisa Students
Unisa students who receive NSFAS funding are eligible for two types of allowances: Learning Material Allowance and Living Allowance.
- Learning Material Allowance: Calculated based on the number of modules registered, Unisa students receive R700 per module for the first four modules and a one-time R5,460 allowance for five or more modules. Additional modules do not qualify for extra Learning Material Allowance. This allowance is intended for purchasing textbooks and essential learning materials.
- Living Allowance: This allowance is available to students registered for ten or more modules. Unfortunately, accommodation allowances do not apply to Unisa students.
Personal Care Allowance for Ten or More Modules
Unisa students registered for ten or more modules can also qualify for a personal care/incidental allowance of R304.50 per month for ten months, covering expenses from February to November.
Registration Process for NSFAS-Funded Students at Unisa
For Unisa students funded by NSFAS, the registration process includes specific steps:
- First-time NSFAS applicants: Temporarily register during Unisa’s registration period while awaiting NSFAS funding confirmation. If your NSFAS application is declined or delayed, you may need to seek alternative funding.
- Returning NSFAS students in progress: Temporarily register while awaiting NSFAS funding confirmation.
- Returning NSFAS students with appeals: Pay the minimum registration fee while awaiting the NSFAS appeal decision, if you choose to do so.
How NSFAS Deposits Student Allowances
NSFAS deposits student allowances using the NSFAS direct payment system. If your NSFAS application is provisionally approved, you do not need to pay the minimum registration fee. Your registration will be automatically activated upon NSFAS funding confirmation.
All students funded by NSFAS who have paid the registration fee will receive a refund once NSFAS confirms the successful processing of registration data with Unisa.
Conclusion
In summary, NSFAS provides comprehensive support, including allowances, for Unisa students pursuing higher education while accommodating their unique distance learning experience.
