How Much Do Unisa Students Get From NSFAS?
As a distance learning university, Unisa caters to a large population of students who may require financial assistance to complete their studies.
If you’re a Unisa student considering applying for NSFAS funding, it is important to understand the allowances you might receive.
What NSFAS Allowances Do Unisa Students Get?
Unlike students at traditional universities, Unisa students funded by NSFAS typically receive two main types of allowances:
- Learning Material Allowance (LMA): This allowance helps cover the cost of prescribed textbooks and study materials required for your registered modules.
- Personal Care Allowance (PCA): This allowance is intended to assist with living expenses during the academic year. It’s important to note that not all Unisa students qualify for the PCA.
How Much is the Learning Material Allowance (LMA) for Unisa Students?
The LMA for Unisa students is calculated based on the number of modules you register for in a given academic year.
- First Four Modules: You’ll receive R700 per module for the first four modules you register for.
- Five or More Modules: If you register for five or more modules, you’ll receive a one-off capped amount of R5,460 for learning materials.
The capped amount of R5,460 applies even if you register for more than five modules.
So, if you register for ten modules, you’ll still only receive the maximum LMA of R5,460.
Do Unisa Students Get a Living Allowance from NSFAS?
Traditionally, Unisa students haven’t qualified for the standard NSFAS living allowance provided to students at residential universities.
However, there is a Personal Care Allowance (PCA) available to qualifying Unisa students.
Who Qualifies for the Personal Care Allowance (PCA) at Unisa?
To be eligible for the PCA at Unisa, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be funded by an NSFAS DHET Grant or NSFAS DHET Disability Grant.
- Be registered for a full course load, which is a minimum of ten modules in an academic year.
How Much is the Personal Care Allowance (PCA) for Unisa Students?
If you qualify for the PCA, you’ll receive a monthly allowance of R304.50 for ten months, running from February to November.
This translates to a total of R3,045 for the academic year.
Does NSFAS fund postgraduate studies at Unisa?
Yes, NSFAS funding can be available for postgraduate studies at Unisa under certain conditions.
You’ll need to consult the NSFAS website or contact their directly for the latest eligibility criteria and application process for postgraduate funding.
How do I apply for NSFAS funding for Unisa?
The application process for NSFAS funding normally opens in August each year.
You can apply online through the NSFAS website https://www.nsfas.org.za/content/how-to-apply.html.
Be sure to check the NSFAS website for the latest application deadlines and required documents.
When will I receive my NSFAS allowances as a Unisa student?
The timelines for receiving your NSFAS allowances can vary. Unisa usually communicates the disbursement schedule to qualifying students.
It’s recommended to keep an eye on your myUnisa account for any updates regarding your NSFAS funding.
What if I have an inquiry about my NSFAS application or allowances?
For any questions or concerns regarding your NSFAS application or allowances, you can contact the NSFAS call center at 0800 00 NSFAS (0800 00 67327) or email them.
You can also contact the Unisa Financial Aid Office for assistance specific to Unisa funding processes.
Are there other financial aid options available for Unisa students?
Yes, Unisa offers various bursary and scholarship opportunities for students who may not qualify for NSFAS funding. You can explore these options on the Unisa website.