Access to education is not just a privilege; it is a fundamental right that facilitates personal and national growth.
This statement addresses two critical matters central to our commitment to supporting students in their pursuit of educational excellence: the timely disbursement of NSFAS TVET Allowance and the NSFAS appeals process.
Late Payment of NSFAS TVET Allowance
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme extends its sincere apologies for the delayed payment of NSFAS TVET allowance originally scheduled for 25th April 2025. Due to a system glitch related to the size of the batch files, these payments were processed on Saturday, April 26th, and have been reflected in all student accounts as of April 27th.
Additionally, we acknowledge that approximately 800 students at a specific institution are experiencing challenges with the transfer of their allowance. The Scheme is committed to rectifying this matter by April 30, 2025.
We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience caused by the delays in NSFAS TVET allowance payments. Delayed payments are unacceptable, and we recognize the significant impact on students who depend entirely on their allowances for living expenses.
We are committed to ensuring that our students receive their NSFAS TVET allowance efficiently and promptly. This commitment stems from our comprehensive understanding of the students’ circumstances, and we unequivocally sympathize with their predicament.
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Outstanding 2024 NSFAS TVET Allowance Payments
NSFAS remains dedicated to settling all outstanding amounts from 2024 owed to both students and accommodation providers under the NSFAS allowance program. The Scheme is currently working on a communication plan to outline the way forward regarding these 2024 outstanding amounts, which will be released by April 30, 2025.
NSFAS Appeals Process
We wish to inform students that NSFAS has successfully addressed most appeals submitted for 2025 related to the NSFAS TVET Allowance. The NSFAS Appeals and Tribunals Committee is currently reviewing these outcomes to ensure consistency and appropriate application of policy.
Students are encouraged to regularly check their accounts for the upload of any additional documents related to their appeals concerning their NSFAS TVET Allowance.
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Resolution of NSFAS TVET Allowance and Qualification Code Discrepancies
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has identified and resolved a significant issue regarding the mismatch of qualification codes that affected the disbursement of the NSFAS TVET Allowance to eligible students.
This discrepancy primarily impacted students enrolled in two specific National Certificate (Vocational) [NC(V)] programs. The NSFAS team successfully established the underlying cause of the qualification code discrepancies. I am pleased to report that 80% of the results were released to examination centres on April 2, 2025.
Further, the Department of Higher Education and Training has collected additional evidence, which will be submitted to Umalusi by May 5, 2025, for National Certificate (Vocational) Levels 2 to 4. Subject to Umalusi’s approval, we anticipate the release of results on May 9 and May 12, 2025.
With the resolution of the qualification code issues, we expect the affected students to receive their NSFAS TVET Allowance without further delay.
As the Minister of Higher Education, I appreciate the patience and understanding of all affected students and stakeholders during this process. We remain committed to ensuring that all eligible students receive their NSFAS TVET Allowance and results promptly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the NSFAS TVET allowance?
A: The NSFAS TVET allowance is financial support provided to eligible students enrolled at Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges. It covers living expenses, transport, accommodation, and learning materials to help students focus on their studies without financial hardship.
Q: Why were NSFAS TVET allowance payments delayed in April 2025?
A: The delay was due to a system glitch related to the large size of batch payment files. NSFAS processed the payments on April 26, and students received their allowances by April 27, 2025.
Q: Will the delay in payments affect future NSFAS TVET allowance disbursements?
A: No. NSFAS is working closely with its financial services partner to ensure that such glitches do not occur again in the future. They are implementing solutions to streamline the payment process.
Q: What is being done for the 800 students still experiencing problems?
A: NSFAS has identified the issue affecting this specific group and is actively resolving it. Payments for these students are expected to be completed by April 30, 2025.
Q: What about students who are still owed money from 2024?
A: NSFAS is finalizing communication and steps to resolve all outstanding NSFAS TVET allowance amounts from 2024, including those owed to accommodation providers. The update will be provided by April 30, 2025.
Q: How can I check the status of my NSFAS appeal?
A: Students should log into their NSFAS account and review the “MyNSFAS” portal. This is where updates on appeals and requests for additional documents will be posted.
Q: What was the qualification code mismatch issue?
A: Some students in National Certificate (Vocational) [NC(V)] programs were affected by mismatched qualification codes, which delayed their funding. The issue has now been resolved, and 80% of the results have already been released. The remainder is expected after Umalusi’s review in May.
Q: When will final results for NC(V) Level 2–4 be available?
A: The Department of Higher Education and Training has submitted the necessary documents to Umalusi. Subject to their approval, results are expected to be released on May 9 and May 12, 2025.
Q: What should I do if I still haven’t received my NSFAS TVET allowance?
A: First, check your NSFAS account for updates or outstanding documents. If everything appears in order and you still haven’t received payment, contact your institution’s financial aid office or reach out directly to NSFAS support.
How can I contact NSFAS or get more information?
For official support and queries, you can reach NSFAS through:
The NSFAS website: www.nsfas.org.za
Call centre: 0800 067 327
