How Much Is NSFAS Allowance For 2026 Per Month?

How Much Is NSFAS Allowance For 2026 Per Month?

NSFAS, a government entity under the Department of Higher Education and Training, was created to provide financial assistance to disadvantaged students who wish to pursue their studies at public universities or TVET colleges in South Africa. The NSFAS allowance is the financial support given to these students, helping to cover various living expenses while they study. This allowance per month is the monthly financial support provided by the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) to eligible students in South Africa. This allowance is intended to cover various living expenses while students are enrolled at public universities or TVET colleges.

NSFAS is essential in supporting eligible students by covering tuition fees, accommodation costs, and other essential living expenses. The monthly living allowance provided by NSFAS typically includes funding for meals, personal care, and accommodation, with the amount varying depending on whether a student is enrolled at a university or a TVET college.

In this guide, we will take a closer look at the expected NSFAS allowances for 2026, the factors that can influence these amounts, and how to determine if you are eligible for funding.

NSFAS Allowance Per Month For 2026

The NSFAS Allowance is a set of financial support programs designed to meet the specific needs of students. This support may cover tuition and registration fees, study materials, accommodation, and a living allowance. The amounts for accommodation, living allowance, transport, and learning materials must align with the most recent DHET guidelines. NSFAS provides the following amounts to assist with students’ educational expenses:

NSFAS University Allowances:

Accommodation: Covered based on actual costs charged by the university (private accommodation costs should not exceed those of university residences).
Transport (up to 40 km from the institution): R7,500 per year.
Living Allowance: R15,000 per year.
Book Allowance: R5,200 per year.
Incidental/Personal Care Allowance: R2,900 per year for students in catered residences.

READ ALSO: Apply For NSFAS 2026-2027

NSFAS TVET Colleges Allowances:

Accommodation:

Urban area: R24,000 per year.
Peri-urban area: R18,900 per year.
Rural area: R15,750 per year.

Transport (up to 40 km from the institution): R7,350 per year.
Transport (other areas): R7,000 per year.
Incidental/Personal Care Allowance: R2,900 per year.

Who Qualifies For NSFAS Allowances 2026?

You qualify for NSFAS allowance if you are a;

South African citizen or a permanent resident.
Bursary: Household income must be R350,000 or less per year (before deductions).
Loan: Household income must be between R350,000 and R600,000 per year (before deductions).
Persons with Disabilities: Household income must be R600,000 or less per year (before deductions).

How To Apply For NSFAS Allowances 2026

Follow the steps below to apply online for NSFAS 2026;

Create a profile:

Create a myNSFAS account via this link: https://my.nsfas.org.za/ or download the NSFAS App on Google Play or App Store. Your ID number will be your username.

Apply now:

Click on the “Apply’ tab to update your personal information and upload your application supporting documents, as indicated.

Complete:

Submit your application.

READ: How Is NSFAS Application 2026-2027

Requirements To Apply For NSFAS Allowances 2026

The following documents must be provided to apply for allowances offered by NSFAS;

NSFAS Declaration Form

This form must be completed by the Principal of the School or a Social Worker for non-SASSA applicants.

Orphan and Vulnerable Child Declaration Form

Required for applicants under 18 who are non-SASSA beneficiaries, to be completed by a Social Worker.

NSFAS Consent Form

Must be signed by the applicant and/or their parent(s), guardian, or spouse. SASSA recipients do not need to submit this form.

Proof of Legal Guardianship

If the applicant has a court-appointed legal guardian, official documentation from the Court is required.

Non-Court-Appointed Guardianship

Applicants in this situation should submit the NSFAS Declaration Form instead.

Disability Annexure Form

This form must be completed by a certified medical professional (such as a doctor, optometrist, physiotherapist, or head of a disability unit) to confirm the applicant’s disability status and the type of support required.

Contact NSFAS

Email: info@nsfas.org.za
Facebook: National Student Financial Aid Scheme
Twitter: @myNSFAS
Instagram: @myNSFAS
WhatsApp: +27 63 093 5671
USSD:*120*67327#

Visit the official website of the National Student Financial Aid Scheme for more information. I hope the provided information is helpful, share your thoughts below in the comment section.

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