NSFAS has confirmed that the delay in the R5,200 allowance is mainly due to an overload of administrative tasks, verification backlogs, and coordination challenges between institutions and payment service providers. As student enrollment numbers continue to rise each year, the system has faced mounting pressure, resulting in slower disbursement timelines for some beneficiaries.
Students Feel Immediate Financial Pressure
For many funded students, the R5,200 allowance serves as their primary income during the academic year. Ongoing delays have forced some students to rely on credit, borrow from family members, or cut back on essential expenses. Student groups have expressed concern that prolonged disruptions could negatively impact attendance, academic focus, and overall performance.
Universities and Colleges Respond to the Situation
Several universities and colleges have acknowledged the payment challenges and are actively engaging with NSFAS to resolve verification and payment slowdowns. Some institutions have advised students to ensure their registration status is correct and that all banking information is accurate and up to date to avoid additional delays.
Stricter Verification and Compliance Checks Introduced
In 2026, NSFAS implemented enhanced verification and compliance measures aimed at preventing fraud and incorrect payments. While these steps are designed to protect public funds, they have also contributed to longer processing times for student allowances.
Students Most Affected by the Delays
Students who live off-campus and those without any alternative financial support are experiencing the greatest impact. Reports indicate that accommodation providers and transport services are also under strain, as delayed allowances affect students’ ability to meet payment commitments on time.
Steps Students Are Advised to Take
The South African government, through NSFAS, has urged students to regularly monitor their funding status. Students should confirm their registration details with their institutions and ensure their banking information remains correct. Addressing any discrepancies early can help streamline the payment process and reduce unnecessary delays.
Potential Catch-Up Payments Under Consideration
NSFAS has not yet announced a confirmed date for settling all outstanding allowances. However, official statements have emphasized the urgency of clearing delayed payments. Once verification issues are resolved, students may receive catch-up payments to cover outstanding amounts.
Calls for Lasting Improvements to the System
Student representatives continue to call for long-term reforms within the NSFAS payment system. Proposed solutions include improving verification processes at earlier stages and strengthening coordination between NSFAS and higher education institutions to prevent future disruptions.
What the 2026 Delays Reveal About Student Funding
The R5,200 allowance delay highlights ongoing administrative challenges within the student funding system. While NSFAS remains essential to the livelihoods of millions, the issues seen in 2026 underscore the need for more efficient systems to ensure financial support reaches students when it is most needed.
