What to Do If Your NSFAS Allowance Is Delayed or Not Paid

Nonhlanhla Ndlovu13 May , 2025

For many South African students, when their NSFAS allowance is delayed or not paid, it’s more than just a financial hiccup; it’s a major disruption. This allowance isn’t just pocket money; it’s a lifeline that covers your rent, transport, meals, books, and data. Without it, balancing student life becomes incredibly tough.

If you’ve been refreshing your bank app or wallet portal with no success, don’t panic. Here’s exactly what to do if your NSFAS allowance is delayed or not paid, and how to get the help you need—fast.

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1. Confirm Your Registration Status with Your Institution

Before blaming NSFAS, double-check with your university or TVET college that:

Your registration has been successfully processed.
Your funding status is active.
Your banking or e-wallet details are up to date and correct.

NSFAS cannot release funds until your institution confirms your registration and academic progress. A delay from your school’s side often causes late payments.

Tip: Visit your campus financial aid office or student support centre in person for quicker feedback.

2. Check Your NSFAS MyNSFAS Portal

Approved for Funding
Payment Sent or Pending Payment
Banking Details Received

If you see “Application Approved” but no mention of a payment, your allowance may still be in processing.

3. Confirm Banking or Wallet Details Are Correct

If you’re using a bank account, make sure your:

ID number matches the bank account name.
The account is active and able to receive EFT payments.
No recent bank changes were made.

If you’re using the NSFAS Wallet, confirm your cellphone number is RICA-registered and has not changed since registration.

Reminder: NSFAS allowances will not go through if your bank or wallet info is invalid or mismatched.

4. Speak to Your Financial Aid Office (Again)

If everything looks correct but you still haven’t received payment, go back to your Financial Aid Office. Ask them to:

Confirm if your name was included in the latest NSFAS payment batch.
Submit a payment query on your behalf directly to NSFAS.
Provide a reference number for tracking your case.

Be polite but persistent. The more follow-ups, the better.

5. Log a Query with NSFAS

If your institution has confirmed your details and still no payment has been made, log a query with NSFAS using one of the following channels:

Email: [email protected]
Facebook: NSFASza
Twitter/X: @myNSFAS
Toll-Free: 08000 67327
Online Chat: On the MyNSFAS portal

Include your ID number, student number, full name, and a description of the issue. Keep screenshots and dates of all communication.

6. Know Your Rights and Escalate If Needed

If you’ve done everything and still have no resolution, don’t stay silent. You have the right to receive your allowance on time.

Escalate your issue to:

Your SRC (Student Representative Council)
University Ombudsman
Higher Education Department (DHET) if your issue is long-standing

Some institutions have emergency funds or meal vouchers available for students affected by delays.

7. What NOT to Do

Don’t borrow money from loan sharks or credit apps in desperation.
Don’t miss classes or tests. Inform your lecturers if finances affect your attendance.
Don’t post personal details publicly when complaining on social media.

A delayed NSFAS allowance can feel like the end of the world, but you’re not alone, and there are steps you can take to resolve it. From verifying your registration to contacting NSFAS directly, acting quickly and keeping track of your communication will help you get your funds as soon as possible.

Most importantly: don’t give up. Your education matters, and so does your well-being.