How To Check If Your Accommodation Is NSFAS Accredited

NSFAS has some limitations and conditions that students need to be aware of before applying. One of these is that NSFAS only pays for approved accommodations that meet certain standards and criteria. In this article, we will explain how to check if your accommodation is NSFAS accredited and what to do if it is not.

What is NSFAS accredited accommodation?

NSFAS accredited accommodation is student accommodation that has received the approval of NSFAS based on the location, design, facilities, safety, and affordability of the property. NSFAS works with universities and TVET colleges to identify and accredit suitable accommodation options for students who receive NSFAS funding. These options include on-campus residences, institution-owned or leased off-campus residences, and private off-campus residences that are associated with the institution.

How to check if your accommodation is NSFAS accredited?

To check if your accommodation is NSFAS accredited, you will need to visit the website of your tertiary education institution. They will indicate which accommodation options are available on campus as well as which nearby residences the tertiary institution is associated with. You can also contact the student housing office or the financial aid office of your institution for more information. They will be able to tell you if your accommodation is NSFAS accredited and how much NSFAS will pay for it.

What to do if your accommodation is not NSFAS accredited?

If your accommodation is not NSFAS accredited:

You can look for another accommodation that is accredited by NSFAS and your tertiary institution. You can check the website of your institution for a list of approved accommodations or use the NSFAS student accommodation portal to find and apply for suitable properties.
You can try to register your current accommodation with NSFAS if it meets the standards and requirements for student living. You can do this by following the steps on the NSFAS website or attending one of the workshops for accommodation providers in different provinces.
You can apply for a travel allowance from NSFAS if you live within 40 km of your institution and use public transport to commute. You can do this by submitting a travel allowance form and proof of residence to your institution’s financial aid office.

Recommended: How to Apply For NSFAS Private Accommodation in 2024

NSFAS Maximum Amount for Accommodation

Students who stay in institution-catered accommodation receive a maximum allowance of R60,750 per year from NSFAS.

This allowance covers the costs of accommodation, living expenses, and personal needs. It aims to help students who live in institution-catered accommodation to achieve academic excellence.

However, students who stay with their immediate or close relatives cannot get housing allowances. They will only get a travel allowance, which can be up to R7,875 in 2024. Students who do not live in catered accommodation will always receive a living allowance of R12,705, a personal care allowance of R3,045, and a meal allowance of R12,705.

Read Also: What is the NSFAS limit?

NSFAS will check the private accommodation to make sure that the prices are fair for the quality provided and that it meets the MNSFSH standards. For students who live in institution-catered accommodation, NSFAS will pay up to R60,750 per year for their housing, which also includes a living and personal care allowance.

Conclusion

NSFAS is a valuable scheme that enables many students from disadvantaged backgrounds to access higher education in South Africa. However, NSFAS has some limitations and conditions that students need to be aware of before applying.