How Much Is The NSFAS First Payment 2026

How Much Is The NSFAS First Payment 2026

Nsfas 2026-2027 Payment Dates:

You have been approved for NSFAS funding in 2026, you are probably wondering when you will get your first payment and how much it will be. Usually, the payment date for cycle one in the 1st semester, payments are released by the 26th of February. The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is designed to help cover the cost of studying at public universities and TVET colleges in South Africa, including tuition fees, accommodation, transport, and monthly living allowances. One of the things students often want to know is the value and timing of the first payment for the year.

In most cases, NSFAS releases an initial upfront payment to institutions at the beginning of the academic year. This is done to help cover students’ registration fees and allow the payment of allowances like accommodation, meals, and personal care as soon as possible. For 2026, the exact amount of the first payment may vary slightly depending on the institution and the student’s living arrangements (for example, whether they are staying in a university residence or private accommodation).

Generally, students funded by NSFAS can expect the first payment to include their care allowance, part of the meal allowance, and sometimes learning material allowances, if they are eligible. Universities and colleges receive the bulk amount from NSFAS, then distribute the allowances to students.

This article will break down what the first NSFAS payment in 2026 includes, when to expect it, how much you will receive, and what to do if there is a delay. Understanding these details can help you plan better and stay focused on your studies from day one.

What Are the NSFAS Fund Payment Dates For 2026-2027

The exact dates on which approved funds are disbursed to NSFAS beneficiaries include the following:

First Semester NSFAS Payment Date:

Cycle 1 – All Campuses 26 February 2026
Cycle 2 – All Campuses 06 March 2026
Cycle 3 – All Campuses 22 April 2026
Cycle 4 – All Campuses 20 May 2026
Cycle 5 – All Campuses Monday 17 June 2025

Second Semester NSFAS Payment Date

Cycle 6 – Medical School 01 July 2026
Cycle 6 – All Other Campuses 08 July 2026
Cycle 7 – All Campuses 05 August 2026
Cycle 8 – All Campuses 02 September 2026
Cycle 9 – All Campuses 07 October 2026
Cycle 10 – All Campuses (Final payment for 2026) 04 November 2025

How Much Is The NSFAS First Payment 2026

In the beginning month, NSFAS gives part of the approved funding to cover necessary expenses. The reason for this payment is to give support to beneficiaries in tackling immediate educational expenses such as registration fees, textbooks, and transportation costs. The amount disbursed during the first month includes the following:

UNIVERSITY STUDENTS:

Accommodation : As per the actual costs charged by the university (costs for private accommodation must not exceed costs for university residence).
Transport (up to 40 km from the institution) R7,500 per annum.
Living allowance R15,000 per annum.
Book allowances R5200 per annum.
Incidental/personal care allowance of R2900 per annum for students in catered residences.

TVET COLLEGE:

Accommodation in an urban area is R24,000 per annum.
Accommodation in a peri-urban area is R18,900 per annum.
Accommodation in a rural area is R15,750 per annum.
Transport (up to 40 km from the institution) R7,350 per annum.
Transport R7000 per annum.
Incidental/personal care allowance R2900 per annum.

How Do I Qualify To Apply to NSFAS 2026

You are eligible to receive funds from NSFAS if you meet the following criteria;

South African Citizenship or Permanent Residency
SASSA grant recipients
Applicants whose combined gross household income is not more than R350,000 per year
Persons with disabilities whose combined gross household income is not more than R600,000 per year.
Must have an email account and cell phone number.

SFAS Contact Information

Website: www.nsfas.org.za
Email: info@nsfas.org.za
South African students: 0860 067 327
International students: +27 21 763 3232
Physical Address: 10 Brodie Road, Wynberg, Cape Town, South Africa, 7700
Postal Address: Private Bag X1, Plumstead, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa, 7801.

The NSFAS first payment for 2026 plays a crucial role in helping students settle into their academic year. This initial disbursement usually covers personal care, part of the meal allowance, and sometimes the learning material allowance, depending on your eligibility and institution. While exact amounts may vary slightly based on your study location and living arrangements, NSFAS ensures that students receive enough support early in the year to get started without financial pressure. For more details, visit the official website.