South Africans seeking grant support, student funding, or unemployment assistance continue to face confusion caused by fake websites, impersonation scams, and outdated information online. In response, the inception of this status check help hub of official government and education portals is used by millions of people every month. The list affects grant beneficiaries, students, unemployed workers, and families in Gauteng who rely on accurate digital access to essential public services.
Government departments have repeatedly warned that accessing the wrong links can lead to fraud, identity theft, or the loss of benefits, particularly for vulnerable users who rely on mobile phones and public internet access.
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Why a Central Help Hub Matters
Over the past few years, the shift to online applications and digital self-service platforms has accelerated across government departments. While this has improved access for many users, it has also created new risks.
According to government communication units, scammers increasingly mimic official websites and social media pages to mislead users into paying “processing fees” or sharing personal information.
A single, verified reference point helps users distinguish between legitimate platforms and fraudulent ones.
Important Security Notice for All Users
Before accessing any government or funding service online, users are advised to check the following:
- Official government websites end in .gov.za
- Secure links begin with https
- Verified social media pages display official verification badges
- No government service charges a fee to apply for grants, student funding, or UIF claims
Any request for payment to “fast-track” an application is a red flag.
SASSA: Social Grants and SRD Support
The South African Social Security Agency provides monthly grants to more than 18 million people, including older persons, child support beneficiaries, and recipients of disability and social relief grants.
SASSA services are delivered through official digital platforms, USSD services, and helplines.
Official SASSA Platforms
- General SASSA services and grant information: sassa.gov.za
- Social Relief of Distress R370 grant applications and status checks: srd.sassa.gov.za
- SASSA online services and account registration: services.sassa.gov.za
Contact Channels
- WhatsApp: 082 046 8553
- USSD: 12069277# or 1203210#
- Helpline: 0800 60 10 11
SASSA has reiterated that applications are free and that beneficiaries should never pay third parties to apply on their behalf.
NSFAS: Student Funding and Bursary Support
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme provides bursary funding to qualifying students at public universities and TVET colleges.
NSFAS funding is administered through a central online portal, with applications opening annually for limited periods.
Official NSFAS Platforms
- Main NSFAS website: nsfas.org.za
- myNSFAS student portal: my.nsfas.org.za
Contact Channels
- WhatsApp: +27 63 093 5671
- USSD: 12067327#
- Email: info@nsfas.org.za
According to the scheme, students are encouraged to regularly check their application status on the myNSFAS portal, particularly following updates to provisional funding lists.
UIF: Unemployment Insurance Fund Services
The Unemployment Insurance Fund provides short-term financial relief to workers who lose employment or are unable to work due to illness, maternity, or reduced working hours.
Most UIF services are now accessed digitally.
Official UIF Platforms
- uFiling portal for claims and employer declarations: ufiling.labour.gov.za
- UIF Online system: uifonline.labour.gov.za
Contact Channels
- USSD status check: 134843#
- Call centre: 0800 030 007
The Department of Employment and Labour has cautioned claimants against using intermediaries who charge fees to submit UIF claims.
Higher Education and University Applications
The Department of Higher Education and Training oversees public universities, TVET colleges, and student funding frameworks.
Official Education Portals
- Department of Higher Education and Training: dhet.gov.za
- Central Applications Office for universities: cau.ac.za
- TVET college applications: tvetcolleges.co.za
These platforms provide application guidance, admission timelines, and institutional information.
What This Means for Gauteng Residents
For Gauteng residents, reliable access to official digital platforms is essential. The province has the highest concentration of grant beneficiaries, students, and job seekers in the country, making it a frequent target for online scams.
Using verified links reduces the risk of losing money, delays in processing, or compromised personal information. It also ensures that users receive updates directly from the responsible department rather than through informal intermediaries.
Common Online Safety Risks Identified by Authorities
Government departments have highlighted several recurring risks:
- Fake websites designed to look official
- Social media pages offering paid “assistance.”
- Messages requesting ID numbers or banking details
- Emails not ending in official government domains
Users are advised to report suspicious activity through official government communication channels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to pay to apply for a SASSA grant or NSFAS funding?
No. All applications are free.
Can someone apply on my behalf?
Applications must be submitted by the applicant using official platforms.
Are WhatsApp services official?
Yes, but only the numbers published by the departments should be used.
How do I know if a website is real?
Official sites end in .gov.za and use secure https links.
What should I do if I shared my details with a fake site?
Contact the relevant department immediately and report the incident.
What Happens Next
Government departments continue to expand digital access to public services while monitoring online fraud risks. Updates to application systems, contact details, and eligibility rules are communicated through official platforms as they occur.
Status Check will continue to update this help hub as new services are added or existing platforms change.
