How much does NSFAS give TVET students per month?

NSFAS is a lifesaver for many South African students, especially those attending Technical and Vocational Education and Training colleges.

It offers financial support to eligible students, covering tuition and registration fees and providing additional allowances for living expenses.

But how much does NSFAS actually give TVET students per month?

The answer isn’t a straightforward one figure.

NSFAS funding for TVET students is broken down into several allowances, and the amount received can vary depending on your specific circumstances. 

Does NSFAS Fund All TVET Courses?

No, NSFAS doesn’t fund all TVET courses. They prioritize funding Ministerial-approved programmes that address scarce skills in South Africa.

These programs fall under fields like engineering, manufacturing, construction, and agriculture.

What Are the Types of NSFAS Allowances for TVET Students?

NSFAS funding for TVET students comprises several allowances to cover various expenses.

These are some of the main allowances:

1. Tuition and Registration Fees: NSFAS pays these fees directly to your TVET college, ensuring you don’t have to worry about upfront costs.
2. Accommodation Allowance: This allowance helps with the cost of living on or off-campus. The amount varies depending on the location of your college and your living situation. Here’s a breakdown:
3. Urban Area: R24,000 per year (approximately R2,000 per month)
4. Peri-Urban Area: R18,900 per year (approximately R1,575 per month)
5. Rural Area: R15,750 per year (approximately R1,312 per month)
6. College-Owned/Managed Accommodation: If you live in catered accommodation provided by your college, the allowance amount may be capped, with a maximum of R60,000 per year in metropolitan areas and R51,000 per year in other areas. It’s important to note that students residing in catered accommodation don’t receive a separate living allowance.
7. Transport Allowance: This allowance helps with commuting costs to and from your college. The maximum amount is R7,350 per year (approximately R612 per month), but it’s only applicable if you live further than 40 kilometers from your college.
8. Living Allowance: This allowance helps cover basic living expenses like food and toiletries. It’s a fixed amount of R15,000 per year (approximately R1,250 per month).
9. Personal Care Allowance: This allowance caters to personal hygiene needs. It’s a fixed amount of R2,900 per year (approximately R242 per month).

How Much Does NSFAS Give for Accommodation in TVET Colleges?

As explained earlier, the accommodation allowance varies depending on the location of your college and your living situation.

The maximum amounts are:

1. R24,000 per year for urban areas
2. R18,900 per year for peri-urban areas
3. R15,750 per year for rural areas

These figures translate to roughly R2,000, R1,575, and R1,312 per month, respectively.

It’s important to remember that these are maximum amounts, and the actual amount you receive may be lower depending on your specific circumstances.

Do Distance Learning TVET Students Qualify for NSFAS Allowances?

Distance learning TVET students have a different funding structure compared to on-campus students.

Since distance learning primarily involves studying from home, NSFAS assumes students don’t require additional allowances for travel or accommodation.

Therefore, distance learning TVET students only qualify for the personal care allowance of R2,900 per year (approximately R242 per month).

Their tuition and registration fees are still covered by NSFAS.