NSFAS Urges Students to Pay Landlords
NSFAS Urges Students to Pay Landlords or Risk Eviction and Funding Cuts
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has issued an urgent warning. Students who received the recent R10,800 accommodation allowance must pay their landlords now. If not, they could face eviction or see future payments reduced.
On April 4, 2025, students received a total of R13,800. R10,800 has been to accommodation. Its been clarified that this amount should not be used for personal expenses. It must go straight to rent.
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NSFAS Students at Risk
Some students failed to pay their landlords. This has sparked concern. NSFAS says not paying rent could lead to eviction.
Students need to submit proof of payment to their Financial Aid Officers immediately. This helps institutions track and confirm payments.
Why the Confusion?
The issue began with a delay in verifying accommodation applications. NSFAS gets lists from solution partners (SPs) showing students who need housing. These lists must then be verified by colleges and universities.
In some cases, students received money directly before this verification.
NSFAS explained, “Some students were not on the verified list but still got the money. This caused problems.”
Institutions Must Act
From April 10, 2025, NSFAS asked institutions to act fast. They must inform students in NSFAS-accredited housing to pay their rent. Higher learning institutions are urged to help manage the issue.
Student Representative Councils (SRCs) have been asked to get involved. They must help educate and guide students. NSFAS wants to avoid further problems and protect students from losing their accommodation.
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A Clear Message
The message is simple: use the money for rent or risk eviction. Non-compliance could lead to future payments being withheld.
Students who received the April allowance should:
- Use R10,800 for rent only.
- Pay landlords immediately.
- Keep proof of payment.
- Give that proof to their Financial Aid Office.
Student Welfare Comes First
NSFAS says it remains committed to supporting students. It wants to ensure students can focus on their studies without fear of losing housing.
“By acting quickly, students can stay in their accommodation and stay focused on learning,” NSFAS said.
This issue highlights a bigger challenge. NSFAS continues to deal with delays, confusion, and system issues but they are working with institutions and SRCs to improve the process.
For now, students must take responsibility. Pay your rent. Show proof. Protect your future.
