NSFAS Allowance Payment Dates and Amounts for 2026 Students
For thousands of South African students, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) remains the most reliable financial support system for higher education. It not only covers tuition fees and registration costs but also provides monthly allowances to help students meet their everyday needs.
If you’ve been approved for NSFAS in 2026, understanding the payment schedule and allowance structure is crucial. This guide explains exactly when NSFAS will pay your allowances, how much you can expect, and what each allowance covers — whether you’re studying at a university or a TVET college.
What Are NSFAS Allowances?
NSFAS allowances are monthly or termly payments made to beneficiaries to help with living costs while studying. These funds are designed to ensure that students can focus on their academics without worrying about food, transport, or study materials.
The allowances are divided into different categories depending on your institution and circumstances.
Main NSFAS Allowance Categories
Accommodation Allowance – Covers rent for on-campus or accredited off-campus housing.
Living or Meal Allowance – Provides funds for food and daily expenses.
Transport Allowance – For students living off-campus and commuting daily.
Learning Materials Allowance – Covers textbooks and study resources.
Personal Care Allowance – For toiletries and personal needs (mainly for TVET students).
NSFAS Allowance Payment Structure for 2026
NSFAS payments are usually made monthly, though some institutions disburse them per term or semester. Payments are sent directly to students via the NSFAS Wallet or through university-managed financial systems.
Below is the expected NSFAS allowance breakdown for 2026, based on the 2025 bursary structure (subject to minor annual adjustments).
University Students – NSFAS Allowance Amounts 2026
| Allowance Type | Amount (per year) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | As per university cost | Paid directly to institution |
| Living/Meal Allowance | R15,000 | Paid monthly (R1,500/month) |
| Learning Materials Allowance | R5,460 | Paid once at the beginning of the year |
| Transport Allowance | R7,875 | For students living up to 40km from campus |
| Incidental/Personal Care Allowance | R3,045 | For students in catered residences |
Explanation
Accommodation: NSFAS covers the actual cost of university-approved residences. Students in private housing must ensure that the accommodation is accredited by their institution.
Meal Allowance: Distributed monthly to cover groceries and food expenses.
Learning Materials: Usually paid in the first term to enable students to buy textbooks or laptops.
Transport: Applicable to students who live off-campus and commute daily.
Incidental Allowance: Covers small personal expenses not included in other allowances.
TVET College Students – NSFAS Allowance Amounts 2026
| Allowance Type | Amount (per year) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (Urban) | R24,000 | Paid directly to landlord or institution |
| Accommodation (Peri-Urban) | R18,900 | |
| Accommodation (Rural) | R15,750 | |
| Transport Allowance | R7,350 | For students living up to 40km from campus |
| Personal Care Allowance | R3,045 | For toiletries and hygiene essentials |
Explanation
TVET students receive similar support as university students but adjusted according to program type and campus location.
Those living in rural areas receive a lower accommodation allowance due to lower rent costs.
Students must maintain good attendance and academic progress to continue receiving allowances.
NSFAS Allowance Payment Dates 2026
While the exact payment schedule for 2026 will be confirmed closer to the start of the academic year, NSFAS typically follows a monthly payment cycle. Below is a general guideline based on previous years:
| Month | Expected Payment Period |
|---|---|
| February 2026 | Week 2–3 (first payment after registration) |
| March 2026 | Week 1–2 |
| April 2026 | Week 1–2 |
| May 2026 | Week 1–2 |
| June 2026 | Week 1–2 |
| July 2026 | Week 1–2 |
| August 2026 | Week 1–2 |
| September 2026 | Week 1–2 |
| October 2026 | Week 1–2 |
| November 2026 | Final monthly allowance before exams |
Important Notes
Payment dates can vary by institution.
Allowances are released only after successful registration and confirmation of attendance.
NSFAS sends SMS or email notifications when funds are disbursed.
Some universities manage funds internally, so payment timing may differ slightly.
How NSFAS Payments Are Made
There are two main methods through which students receive their NSFAS funds:
1. NSFAS Wallet
Students at TVET colleges or certain universities receive their funds via the NSFAS Wallet system. You can access your funds through your registered cellphone number by:
Dialing 120176# or
Visiting https://celbux.appspot.com
Ensure your cellphone number is active and registered under your name.
2. Institutional Disbursement
Some universities pay allowances directly into students’ bank accounts. In such cases, NSFAS transfers funds to the institution, which then manages distribution internally.
Check with your university’s financial aid office to confirm your payment method.
What to Do If You Don’t Receive Your Allowance
If your allowance hasn’t been paid or appears delayed, take these steps:
Check Your NSFAS Status: Log in to your MyNSFAS account and verify your funding status.
Confirm Registration: Ensure your university has confirmed your registration to NSFAS.
Verify Your Banking or Wallet Details: Incorrect information may delay payment.
Contact Financial Aid Office: Each institution has a bursary department to resolve NSFAS issues.
Reach NSFAS Directly: Call the NSFAS helpline (0800 067 327) or email [email protected].
How to Maintain Your NSFAS Funding
To continue receiving your allowances throughout 2026, you must:
Pass at least 50% of your modules or courses each academic year.
Maintain regular attendance (especially for TVET students).
Avoid dropping out or changing institutions without notifying NSFAS.
Keep your contact details and banking information updated.
Failure to meet these conditions may lead to suspension or termination of funding.
Common Problems Students Face with NSFAS Payments
Delayed Disbursements: Often caused by late registration or pending document verification.
Incorrect Personal Details: Mismatched ID or banking details can block payments.
Inactive NSFAS Wallet: Ensure your cellphone number is active and verified.
Institutional Delays: Universities may take time to process disbursement after receiving funds.
Always communicate with your financial aid office early to prevent prolonged delays.