Students At This University Won’t Receive Increased NSFAS Payments Yet

Students At This University Won’t Receive Increased NSFAS Payments Yet. While the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has confirmed an increase in student allowances for 2025, not all universities will implement these changes immediately. Nelson Mandela University (NMU) has announced that it will continue to disburse allowances at 2024 rates until official communication from NSFAS is received.

NMU Delays NSFAS Allowance Increase

Last week, Higher Education Minister Nobuhle Nkabane confirmed that NSFAS allowances will increase for the 2025 academic year. However, NMU has stated that the updated allowances will not be implemented until they receive formal communication from NSFAS.

According to NMU officials, “Formal communication shall be sent to all institutions regarding the increase and its implementation date. We will continue paying allowances at the rate of R1,650 for living allowance and R2,730 for book allowance (partial payment) until such time that we receive formal communication from NSFAS.”

This means that NMU students will temporarily continue receiving a living allowance of R1,650 and a book allowance of R2,730 despite the announced increase.

NMU Plans to Implement the Increase Once Confirmed

NMU has assured students that once they receive the official NSFAS directive, they will implement the increase and cover any outstanding differences from previous months. University representatives stated:

“As soon as communication is received, and it necessitates correction of allowances already paid, the office shall immediately make the adjustment and make the outstanding allowances available for students to utilize.”

Minister Confirms NSFAS Allowance Increase for 2025

Minister Nkabane emphasized the importance of NSFAS allowances for student livelihoods, stating that the government has adjusted the allowances to account for the rising cost of living and socio-economic challenges.

• Student allowances have been increased by 4% to help students cope with inflation and financial challenges.
• TVET College students will see a significant 46% increase, with allowances rising from R10,000 per annum to R14,600 per annum.

The Minister stated, “We have considered the cost of living, which is very high, as well as some of the socio-economic challenges that our people face every day. We have decided, working closely with USAf and NSFAS, as well as student formations, to adjust student allowances for this financial year.”

What This Means for NMU Students

While NMU students may face a temporary delay in receiving the increased NSFAS allowances, they have been assured that any differences will be reimbursed once formal communication from NSFAS is received. This development highlights the importance of clear communication between NSFAS, universities, and students to ensure timely financial support.