Nsfas sets October deadline for 2027 accommodation rules
Higher Education Minister Buti Manamela says the department and Nsfas must resolve outstanding student funding issues
National Student Financial Aid Scheme (Nsfas) has set October as the deadline for finalising student accommodation protocols and funding guidelines for the 2027 academic year. Higher Education and Training Minister Buti Manamela pledged to address outstanding funding, registration, allowance and accommodation issues during a virtual committee meeting on Wednesday.
Applications for the 2027 Nsfas cycle opened on September 18 and will close on October 31. Manamela urged students and families to apply early and seek support if needed. The department expects Nsfas to enhance its systems, improve eligibility checks, and work with institutions to provide funding and appeals before matric results.
Outstanding allowances, unresolved registrations, reinstated students awaiting payment, and debts owed to institutions and accommodation providers are priorities. Nsfas accommodation guidelines must clarify reasonable costs, residence grading, payment responsibilities, and complaint procedures. The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) is investigating Nsfas accommodation solution providers' contracts.
Manamela stressed the importance of building public-sector capacity to manage student accommodation, including funding, verification, reconciliation, and payments.
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