How Much Is NSFAS Allowance For Unisa Students?
As a distance learning leader, Unisa caters to a large population of students who rely on NSFAS funding to complete their studies.
But how much exactly can Unisa students expect to receive through NSFAS allowances?
This article explains the various allowances available, eligibility criteria, and how the amounts are calculated.
What NSFAS Allowances Do Unisa Students Get?
Unlike students in traditional universities, Unisa students funded by NSFAS only receive two main allowances:
- Learning Material Allowance (LMA): This allowance helps students cover the cost of textbooks and other required study materials.
- Living Allowance (Personal Care Allowance): This allowance is meant to assist with living expenses during the academic year.
It’s important to note that Unisa students don’t receive a transport or accommodation allowance through NSFAS.
How Much is the Learning Material Allowance (LMA) for Unisa Students?
The LMA for Unisa students is calculated based on the number of modules they register for in a particular academic year.
Here’s the breakdown:
- Students registered for 1 to 4 modules receive R700 per module.
- Students registered for 5 or more modules receive a one-time payment of R5,460.
There’s a cap, however. If a student receives the R5,460 allowance for registering for five or more modules, they won’t get any additional LMA for registering for even more modules.
How Much is the Living Allowance for Unisa Students?
Unisa students don’t automatically qualify for the living allowance.
To be eligible, they must be registered for a minimum of 10 modules in an academic year.
Additionally, they must be funded by the NSFAS DHET Grant or the NSFAS DHET Disability Grant.
If they meet these criteria, students will receive a monthly living allowance of R304.50 for 10 months, totaling R3,045 per academic year.
These are some additional points to consider regarding the living allowance:
- The allowance is paid from February to November each year.
- It’s intended to help cover expenses like food, toiletries, and basic necessities.
How Many Modules Do I Need to Qualify for the NSFAS Allowance?
A minimum registration of ten modules is required in order for you to qualify for the NSFAS living allowance.
This is a full course load for distance learning students at Unisa.
You should remember though that taking a lighter course load might not disqualify you from funding altogether, but it could impact your eligibility for the living allowance.
What If My Allowances Seem Incorrect?
If you believe there’s a discrepancy with your NSFAS allowance disbursement, here are the steps to take:
- Contact the Unisa Financial Aid Office: They can investigate the issue and provide guidance. You can find their contact information on the Unisa website.
- NSFAS Student Portal: The NSFAS student portal allows you to view your funding allocation and track disbursement. If you notice any discrepancies, report them through the portal.
Remember that it’s always best to address any concerns promptly to ensure you receive the correct allowances you’re entitled to.
How do I apply for NSFAS funding for Unisa?
You can apply for NSFAS funding online through the NSFAS website. The application window typically opens in August each year.
What are the requirements for NSFAS funding for Unisa?
To qualify for NSFAS funding at Unisa, you must be a South African citizen, demonstrate financial need, and meet the academic requirements set by NSFAS.
When are NSFAS allowances paid to Unisa students?
NSFAS allowances are typically disbursed at the beginning of the academic year.
You can find the exact disbursement dates on the Unisa website or by contacting the NSFAS call center.
How can I contact NSFAS if I have questions about my allowance?
If you have any questions about your NSFAS allowance, you can contact the NSFAS call center at 0800 00 NSFAS (0800 00 67327) or email them at [email protected].