Here Are the NSFAS Allowance Payment Dates for 2023.Your Ultimate Guide to NSFAS Allowance 2023: Dates, Amounts, and Payment Methods.Navigating the complexities of starting university can be overwhelming. Amidst the rush of emotions, the last thing you need is stress about financing your education, accommodation, books, and daily expenses. Thankfully, if you’re considering or have already chosen the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) to assist you, we’ve simplified all the essentials for you.
Here Are the NSFAS Allowance Payment Dates for 2023
NSFAS stands for the National Student Financial Aid Scheme. It is a South African government-funded organization established to provide financial support to disadvantaged students who wish to pursue their tertiary education.
Understanding the NSFAS Bursary
When you receive approval for the NSFAS bursary, you can expect support with registration fees, tuition, and various other allowances to ease your financial burden.
Key Payment Dates for NSFAS Allowances 2023
- Monthly payments, predominantly within the first week of every month for 10 months.
- Noteworthy: Payments vary by student. So, if your roommate receives their allowance before you, stay calm.
First Semester:
- 28 February
- 7 March
- 4 April
- 3 May
- 6 June
Second Semester:
- 18 July
- 1 August
- 5 September
- 3 October
- 7 November
NSFAS 2023 Allowance Breakdown:
The allowance amount may vary slightly based on whether you’re attending a college or university. Here’s a detailed comparison:
TVET College Allowances:
- Urban Accommodation: R2,400/month
- Peri-urban Accommodation: R1,892/month
- Rural Accommodation: R1,575/month
- Transportation (up to 40 km): R735/month
- General Transport: R700/month
- Personal Care: R290/month
University Allowances:
- Accommodation: As billed by the university (private accommodation rates should not surpass university residence costs).
- Transportation (up to 40 km): R750/month
- Living Expenses: R1,500/month
- Book Allowances: R5,200 annually
- Personal Care (for catered residences): R290/month
Unisa Allowances:
- Small Expense: R2,900 annually (for students enrolled in ten or more modules).
- Learning Material: R600/module (capped at R5,200 for 5-10 modules).
Are NSFAS Allowances Increasing in 2023?
Contrary to circulating rumors about an increase in NSFAS allowances or the introduction of car allowances, the 2023 allowances will mirror those of 2022.
Factors Influencing NSFAS Allowance Amounts:
Allowances can vary based on several factors: the tertiary institution’s registration fees, the distance from your accommodation to the institution, and the specific accommodation fees.
Accommodation Payments Through NSFAS:
Ensure your landlord is NSFAS-accredited to receive direct payments, eliminating your need to handle cash payments. Confirm your accommodation’s accreditation via your university or TVET website. Non-accredited landlords can apply for NSFAS partnership online.
NSFAS Allowance Payment Methods:
Universities: NSFAS allocates annual funds to universities, which then distribute allowances to approved students. Payment may be managed by administrators like intellimali or directly allocated to student bank accounts.
NSFAS Wallet (TVET students only): Requires a cell phone and SIM card for registration. Once activated, it enables cash withdrawals and purchase capabilities at registered NSFAS merchants.
NSFAS MasterCard: A promising new direct payment method for student allowances, launching end of September 2023. This will gradually replace the NSFAS wallet, offering several value-added services.
With this NSFAS knowledge in hand, embark confidently on your higher education journey, bearing in mind Mandela’s words, “It always seems impossible until it’s done.”
