How Do I Check My Unisa Allowance?
Unisa offers financial support to qualifying students through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).
This support comes in the form of allowances to help cover living expenses and the cost of learning materials.
If you’re a Unisa student receiving an NSFAS allowance, naturally, you’ll want to know how to check your balance and track your disbursements.
How Do I Check My Unisa Allowance?
Unisa has moved to a new system for disbursing allowances.
Previously, NSFAS allowances were distributed through the Intellimali card system.
However, Unisa now uses Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) to deposit allowances directly into students’ bank accounts.
This shift offers greater convenience and eliminates the need for managing a separate card.
Here’s how to check your Unisa allowance balance:
- Access your myUnisa account: myUnisa is the official online portal for Unisa students. Log in using your student number and password.
- Look for the allowance notification: Upon logging in, keep an eye out for any notifications regarding your NSFAS allowance. These notifications are sent to your myLife email address which is linked to your myUnisa account.
- Click on the secure link: The notification email will contain a secure link. This link will direct you to a dedicated page where you can enter your banking details.
- Verify your banking information (if applicable): If you haven’t previously submitted your bank details, you’ll be prompted to do so on this secure page. Ensure you enter the correct account information for an active bank account in your name.
- Submit the information: Once you’ve verified or entered your banking details, submit the information securely.
When Do NSFAS Allowances Get Paid at Unisa?
As of March 19, 2024, NSFAS confirmed the commencement of allowance disbursements for both new and returning Unisa students.
The allowances include learning materials and incidental allowances for qualifying students.
It’s important to input your banking details correctly on the link provided in the confirmation email to ensure timeous payments.
How Do I Know If I Qualify for an NSFAS Allowance at Unisa?
NSFAS eligibility is determined based on various factors, including financial need, academic performance, and citizenship status.
It’s recommended that you visit the NSFAS website for detailed information on eligibility criteria and the application process.
What If I Haven’t Received My NSFAS Allowance at Unisa?
If you haven’t received your allowance after a reasonable timeframe following the disbursement date (usually around March 19th for the 2024 academic year), here are the steps you can take:
- Contact the Unisa Student Finance Department: They can be reached via email or by phone at +27 11 471 2400. Explain your situation and provide them with your student number for reference.
- Check Your Bank Statements: Double-check your bank statements to confirm if there have been any deposits from NSFAS or a related entity.
- NSFAS Enquiry Line: You can also contact the NSFAS customer service line at 0800 067 323 for further assistance.
Can I Check My Unisa Allowance Balance on My Phone?
Yes, you can check your Unisa allowance balance on your phone if you have access to your bank’s mobile banking app.
Most South African banks offer mobile banking apps that allow you to view your account balance and transaction history.
What If My Bank Details for the Unisa Allowance Are Incorrect?
If you discover you’ve entered incorrect bank details, it’s important to rectify the situation as soon as possible.
Unfortunately, you won’t be able to access the original link provided in the confirmation email.
Here’s what you can do:
- Contact the Unisa Student Finance Department: Inform them of the error and request guidance on the process for updating your bank details.
- Possible Delays: Be aware that there might be a delay in receiving your allowance due to the need to update your information.