Will NSFAS Increase Allowance In 2026

Will NSFAS Increase Allowance In 2026

Will NSFAS Bursaries Increase in 2026:

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a South African government initiative designed to assist financially disadvantaged students in accessing higher education at public universities and TVET colleges. It provides bursaries and loans to cover essential expenses such as tuition fees, accommodation, meals, and travel. For full-time students, NSFAS usually funds tuition, housing, and living costs, whereas part-time students receive support solely for tuition fees.

As the 2026-2027 academic year approaches, NSFAS-funded students can anticipate an increase in their bursaries. Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande has confirmed that allowances will be adjusted to enhance financial aid for both university and TVET college students. Also, extra funding has been allocated for students with disabilities, ensuring more inclusive financial support. To stay updated on the latest approved amounts, students should regularly check the official NSFAS website.

Over the years, NSFAS has steadily expanded its financial assistance. In 2024, university students received an annual living allowance of R16,500, which included R3,045 for personal care and R13,455 for meals. TVET college students also saw an increase, with their living allowance rising from R6,000 to R10,000 per year. These adjustments highlight NSFAS’s commitment to improving access to higher education for South African students.

For the latest NSFAS updates, funding changes, and policy announcements, students should monitor official NSFAS statements and follow trusted news sources.

READ ALSO: Nsfas Status Check Login 2026-2027

NSFAS Allowances For 2026-2027

NSFAS allowances are financial support provided by the National Student Financial Aid Scheme, a South African government program that helps eligible students afford higher education at public universities and TVET colleges. These allowances cover essential living and study expenses, including tuition, accommodation, meals, and travel.

In recent updates, NSFAS adjusted its allowance structure. University students now receive an annual living allowance of R16,500, which includes R3,045 for personal care and R13,455 for meals. TVET college students also saw an increase, with their living allowance rising from R6,000 to R10,000 per year.

NSFAS Allowance For TVET Colleges 2026-2027

NSFAS offers financial assistance to eligible students enrolled in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges in South Africa. This support helps cover essential expenses such as tuition, accommodation, meals, and personal care. Provided below is the allowance structure for TVET Students:

• 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

2026-2027 NSFAS Allowances For Universities

NSFAS helps eligible students at South African universities by covering important costs. This support allows students to focus on their studies without worrying too much about money. Below is the allowance structure for university students;

• 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.

How Can I Apply For NSFAS 2026-2027?

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.

Requirements To Apply For NSFAS 2026-2027

Certified copies of the following documents are required to complete the online application for 2026-2027;

• NSFAS Declaration 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 years and must be completed by a Social Worker (Non-SASSA applicants only).

• 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 an applicant has a court-appointed legal guardian, they must provide official documentation issued by the Court.

• Non-Court-Appointed Guardianship

Applicants must submit the NSFAS Declaration Form instead.

• Disability Annexure Form

Must be completed by a certified medical professional (such as a doctor, optometrist, physiotherapist, or head of a disability unit). The form should confirm the applicant’s disability status and outline the type of support needed.

READ ALSO: Apply NSFAS 2026-2027

Will NSFAS Increase Allowance In 2026

• Currently, there is no official information regarding an increase in NSFAS allowances for the 2026 academic year. Historically, NSFAS has periodically adjusted allowances to better support students’ financial needs. For instance, in 2025, the living allowance for university students was set at R15,000 per annum, while transport allowances were up to R7,500 per annum.

Any potential changes to allowances for 2026 would likely be announced by the Department of Higher Education and Training or NSFAS closer to the start of the academic year. To stay informed about the latest updates, it’s advisable to regularly check the official NSFAS website and follow their official social media channels.

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. Hope the provided information is helpful, share your thoughts below in the comment section.

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