NSFAS Urges Students to Pay Accommodation Allowances to Prevent Evictions

NSFAS Urges Students to Pay Accommodation Allowances to Prevent Evictions. The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has issued an urgent advisory to all students who have recently received their accommodation allowances. The call comes amidst growing concerns over potential evictions, as delays in settling rent could result in serious consequences for financially-assisted students.

Urgent Call to Action for NSFAS Beneficiaries

On April 4, 2025, NSFAS disbursed a payment of R13,800 to eligible students, with R10,800 allocated specifically for student accommodation. However, some students have not yet used these funds to settle outstanding rent with their landlords, which has prompted NSFAS to speak out publicly.

NSFAS accommodation allowances are crucial to ensuring that students have stable living environments conducive to academic success. Failure to use these funds correctly, particularly for housing, could lead to eviction or even deductions from future NSFAS allowances.

“This issue stems from delays and discrepancies in reconciling student accommodation applications with institutional records,” said NSFAS in an official statement. “Some students received payments directly, without corresponding updates on the institutions’ verified accommodation lists.”

Importance of Prompt Payment

Students who have received the R10,800 housing allowance are now being urged to settle all outstanding debts with landlords immediately. To avoid eviction or disruption in future support, NSFAS emphasizes that proof of payment should be submitted to Financial Aid Officers at the respective institutions without delay.

Moreover, NSFAS has requested that all educational institutions notify affected students living in NSFAS-accredited accommodation of their responsibility to pay rent. Communication efforts are being supported by Student Representative Councils (SRCs) and various student organisations, who are playing a key role in spreading awareness on campuses.

Clarifying Confusion Around NSFAS Housing Payments

The confusion largely stems from the fact that some students received their NSFAS housing funds without a proper reconciliation process. NSFAS works with registered Solution Partners (SPs) who provide student accommodation. Once a student applies for housing through an SP, their information is sent to the institution for verification and approval. However, due to processing delays, certain payments were made before full eligibility confirmation, resulting in misunderstandings.

To address this, NSFAS has reaffirmed its commitment to transparent funding practices and urges students to engage responsibly with the system. Institutions have also been tasked with ensuring that only students eligible for NSFAS-accredited housing receive these benefits.

How to Protect Your Housing and Academic Future

Students are encouraged to take the following actions:

• Settle your rent immediately using the NSFAS accommodation allowance.
• Submit proof of payment to your institution’s Financial Aid Office.
• Engage with your SRC or student body for guidance and updates.
• Avoid misusing or misallocating funds intended for housing.

NSFAS reiterated its role as a student-centered financial aid provider, dedicated to creating safe, stable, and supportive environments for South African youth in higher education.  “By acting promptly, students can protect their accommodation and focus on their studies without added stress,” the statement concluded.

NSFAS Accommodation Allowances: What You Need to Know

• Total Payment: R13,800
• Allocated for Housing: R10,800
• Action Required: Pay landlords and provide proof
• Deadline: Immediate action recommended before eviction notices or funding deductions occur

Conclusion

Prompt action is essential for students receiving NSFAS accommodation allowances. By settling rent and providing proof, students can avoid eviction, safeguard future funding, and focus on their studies. Responsible use of NSFAS funds ensures housing stability and academic success.