Will NSFAS pay for December?

As the academic year progresses, a common question amongst NSFAS beneficiaries is whether they will receive allowances for the December holiday period.

This article provides a clear and informative answer to this query, along with addressing other frequently asked questions related to NSFAS payments.

Does NSFAS Pay for December?

No, NSFAS does not disburse living allowances for the month of December.

The NSFAS funding cycle aligns with the academic calendar, typically running from February to November.

This means that students won’t receive a monthly living allowance payment in December.

This is a detailed outline of the disbursement schedule:

  1. Semester 1: Allowances are generally paid for the months of February, March, May, June, and July.
  2. Semester 2: Allowances are typically paid for the months of August, September, October, and November.

When is the Last NSFAS Payment for 2024?

The last NSFAS payment for the 2024 academic year will likely be disbursed in November 2024.

The exact date can vary slightly depending on the specific university or TVET college and their registration submission process.

Do I Get Paid During the December Break?

Unfortunately, NSFAS does not provide living allowances for December.

Students are expected to manage their finances throughout the year to cater for the December break.

Are There Any Exceptions for December Payments?

There are currently no exceptions for NSFAS December payments.

However, students with specific needs, such as those with disabilities, might receive additional allowances outside the standard disbursement schedule.

It’s good to contact your institution’s financial aid office for further information on such exceptions.

Does NSFAS Pay for January?

No, NSFAS does not typically pay for January either. However, there may be exceptions for NSFAS-funded students who are considered “pre-funded.”

Pre-funded students are those who require additional financial support to cover registration fees or other essential expenses before the academic year commences.

When Do NSFAS Payments Resume After December?

NSFAS payments typically resume in February of the following year, aligning with the new academic year.

Students can expect to receive their living allowances on or around the 30th of February for universities and the 25th of February for TVET colleges.

What Can I Do if I’m Facing Financial Difficulties in December?

If you’re facing financial hardship during December, there are a few options to consider:

  1. Part-time Work: Explore opportunities for part-time jobs during the holiday season. Many businesses require additional staff during this period, offering students a chance to earn income.
  2. Bursaries and Scholarships: Research bursaries and scholarships specifically targeted at supporting students during the holiday season. These can be offered by private organizations or NGOs.
  3. Financial Aid Office: Contact your university or TVET college’s financial aid office. They may have resources or emergency funding options available to assist students in need.
  4. Family and Friends: Communicate your situation openly with your family and friends. They may be able to offer temporary financial support.

How to Contact NSFAS with Questions About Payments?

There are several ways to contact NSFAS for inquiries regarding your payments:

  1. NSFAS Website: Visit the official NSFAS website and go to the “Contact Us” section. You can submit an online enquiry form.
  2. NSFAS Call Centre: Call the NSFAS call centre on 0800 067 327. Operating hours are weekdays from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
  3. Social Media: Follow NSFAS on social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook. You can send direct messages with your inquiries.
  4. NSFAS Service Centres: Visit your nearest NSFAS service center for in-person assistance.