Pretoria: The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has announced the successful disbursement of R3.6 billion to universities for allowance payments and R679 million to Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges for tuition payments. These upfront payments were initiated on 2 February 2026, with subsequent allowance disbursements for TVET college students scheduled for later in February due to extended registration periods, according to NSFAS Acting CEO Wassem Carrim.
According to South African Government News Agency, Carrim provided an update on the NSFAS's appeals process for the 2026 application cycle. He reported that 91,937 appeals have been lodged, with 10,445 approved, 27,893 in process, 3,209 awaiting documents, 5,407 rejected, and 44,983 closed, deleted, finalized, or withdrawn. The appeals process allows applicants to request a review of their application outcome if they believe their circumstances were not fully considered or if new information could affect their eligibility.
Carrim emphasized the importance of processing all appeals fairly and encouraged applicants to keep their contact information and supporting documentation up to date. He also highlighted the significance of access to safe and suitable accommodation for academic success and personal development. NSFAS is actively engaging with students, institutions, and stakeholders to enhance the student accommodation process and address challenges collaboratively.
In response to requests from institutions, NSFAS has developed a comprehensive guidance circular to clarify accommodation requirements and processes. For the upcoming academic year, higher education institutions participating in the student accommodation project will have their accommodation payments managed by NSFAS, while others will maintain their current arrangements.
The figures show a total of 194,071 applications received across universities and TVET colleges, with 55,653 approved, 90,794 pending institutional review, and 53,864 awaiting landlord approval. NSFAS is working with institutions and landlords to expedite approvals and prioritize student needs and well-being.
Addressing concerns around accommodation at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) and other institutions, Carrim clarified that CPUT manages accommodation independently. NSFAS has engaged with the university to understand its challenges and support its resolution, warning accommodation providers against housing students without confirming their NSFAS funding status.
Carrim confirmed that the allowances and accommodation rates for 2026 are under review, with adjustments informed by factors such as consumer price inflation and budget allocations. NSFAS will recommend the 2026 rates once the budget process is finalized.