Will NSFAS Money Increase In 2026-2027

Will NSFAS Money Increase In 2026-2027

How Much Will NSFAS Pay in 2026–2027? Latest Updates:

Many students are eager to know if the NSFAS bursaries and allowances will grow to match the rising costs of recent days. Recent announcements and government budget allocations suggest positive changes on the horizon. A clear indication comes from Higher Education Minister Blade Nzimande, who confirmed that allowances for both university and TVET college students are set to rise in 2026–2027, including additional support for students with disabilities.

Previously, under the 2024 reforms, university living allowances were increased to R16,500 annually, comprised of R3,045 for personal care and R13,455 for meals, while TVET students saw their allowance jump from R6,000 to R10,000 per year. With NSFAS’s track record of steady growth, more increases are likely

The broader funding landscape is also encouraging. The government has allocated R55.4 billion to NSFAS for the 2026–2027 cycle, up from R53.6 billion, a 1.5% rise for universities and a 4.4% increase for TVET colleges. Over the next three years, NSFAS plans for sustained growth averaging 4.4% annually, aiming to support around 2.1 million students

Various factors influence these increases: student financial needs, inflation, public advocacy, and shifting government budgets. As living and tuition costs continue to climb, it is expected that NSFAS will adjust bursary amounts to ensure students receive adequate support. To stay updated, monitor official NSFAS communications for any formal change in allowance rates for 2026–2027 should be confirmed through their portal or credible news announcements.

READ MORE: How Many Times Can NSFA Fund You

News About NSFAS Allowance Increment In 2026-2027

There is a high possibility that NSFAS beneficiaries in 2026 will receive an increase in allowance. Minister Blade Nzimande of Higher Education announced that there will be NSFAS allowance increases.

Nzimande said the increment aims to improve NSFAS support for university and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) college students. Blade Nzimande also gave out allowances for NSFAS-funded students living with disabilities. To know the newly approved amount to be paid by the bursary secretariat, scroll down.

Download the:

NSFAS STATEMENT ON THE PAYMENT OF THE 2026 STUDENT ALLOWANCES

What Influences NSFAS Funding 2026-2027

Several factors influence NSFAS’s funding allocation for each academic year. These factors will help you forecast whether funding will be increased or not.

Economic situation: the country’s overall financial health determines NSFAS Fund allocation
Government Guidelines: The ruling government’s policies and priorities can significantly impact funding decisions.
Student Registration: The number of qualified students applying for NSFAS support may also affect funding.

What Does The NSFAS Fund Cover For Students In 2026-2027

NSFAS disburses the following amounts to cater for the educational expenses in these categories;

University students:

NSFAS University Allowance
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 Students:

Accommodation in an urban area is R24,000 per annum
Accommodation in a peri-urban area 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

NSFAS Payment Dates For 2026-2027 |Will NSFAS Money Increase In 2026-2027

These payments are typically made directly into the designated bank accounts of students or through alternative payment methods. NSFAS disburses payments using the payment schedule provided below;

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 2026

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 2026

NSFAS 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

As the cost of living and education continue to rise in South Africa, NSFAS funding and student allowances will likely be reviewed and adjusted for the 2026–2027 academic year. While no official announcement has confirmed exact figures yet, previous trends and government budget increases point toward a potential rise in funding. Students can expect improvements, especially in areas like living allowances, transport, and accommodation support. Check the official website for more details.