NSFAS Clarifies R13,800 Accommodation Allowance Error

NSFAS Clarifies R13,800 Accommodation Allowance Error. In a recent development affecting thousands of South African students, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has issued an urgent clarification surrounding the now-infamous R13,800 accommodation allowance payment error. The scheme, which supports financially disadvantaged students in public universities and TVET colleges, confirmed a misstep in how housing funds were disbursed—leaving many students scrambling for answers and action.

R13,800 Payment Breakdown

On 4 April 2025, NSFAS processed a bulk allowance payment of R13,800 to certain TVET college students. This payment included:

• R10,800 for accommodation
• R3,000 for meals, transport, and other personal allowances

However, it has now emerged that a portion of these payments was made erroneously to students not officially approved for NSFAS housing support.

What Went Wrong? Understanding the NSFAS Payment Error

According to NSFAS, the confusion stems from discrepancies in the institutional verification process. Universities and colleges are responsible for confirming which students qualify for specific allowances—such as those for accommodation or transport.

Unfortunately, some students who were not on the verified accommodation list still received the R10,800 housing allowance directly. This amount should have been paid directly to landlords, as per NSFAS protocols.

Urgent Action Required from Affected Students

NSFAS has issued a strong call to action for affected students, urging them to rectify the situation immediately. Here’s what you need to do if you received the housing allowance incorrectly:

1. Pay your landlord the full amount of R10,800 immediately.
2. Obtain proof of payment (receipt or bank confirmation).
3. Submit this proof to your college or institution’s Financial Aid Office.
4. Verify your accommodation status with your institution if you’re unsure whether you qualify for the housing allowance.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failure to act may have serious consequences. NSFAS has warned that students who do not comply could face:

• Eviction from their current accommodation
• Future NSFAS allowances being withheld or deducted
• Delays in processing future disbursements

Students must take responsibility and ensure the funds reach the correct recipients.

NSFAS and Institutions Working on a Resolution

NSFAS has already sent detailed remittance information to colleges across South Africa to aid in resolving the issue swiftly. Institutions have also been tasked with urgent outreach to impacted students, to prevent financial distress and ensure continuity in housing arrangements.

Conclusion

In its final message, NSFAS reiterated the importance of immediate compliance. “Students must settle these payments as soon as possible to avoid severe consequences,” a spokesperson emphasised. Students unsure of their funding status are urged to contact their Financial Aid Office without delay.