NSFAS has warned that students have to face eviction or are seen cutting future allowances.
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) on Monday called all funded students who received R10 800 for housing to immediately settle their outstanding fare payments.
It comes after widespread confusion around the R13 800 allowance given to students on 4 April 2025.
NSFAS has clarified that the R10 800 of that amount was specially allocated for housing expenses, not for general use.
Also read: Over half of the university students rely on NSFAS
Students at risk of eviction
NSFAS has warned that students may face eviction or cuts from future allowances by not paying the landlords.
“Students are urged to solve their housing fee with landlords as urgency,” it has been said.
“They will also have to submit proof of payment to the financial assistance officers of their college without delay.”
Also read: Where are the ‘ghost students’? Concern over housing change
NSFAS also noted that complete remittance has already been paid to the institutions concerned, which are responsible for ensuring that the funds reach the appropriate recipients.
NSFAS says confusion arose due to delay of verification
The Financial Assistance Scheme blamed confusion for a breakdown in verification procedures.
It said that this solution depends on a master list provided by partners (SPS), which includes students who applied for housing support.
Also read: NSFAS Payment delays risk student housing at risk
Institutions are expected to verify and confirm the eligibility before the allowances are distributed.
“Some students received direct payments, were not included in the global list and were not confirmed on time by their institutions.
“Due to this, R10 800 was distributed to students who may not be eligible for NSFAS-recognized housing,” said this.
SRC urged to assist in enforcement
NSFAS has appealed to the Student Representative Councils (SRCs) and other student organizations to support the initiative by encouraging quick action to educate students and to prevent further misconceptions and ensure compliance.
“The institutional leadership must inform students in NSFAS-recognized housing to pay their landlords. It avoids unnecessary inconveniences and will help maintain a stable learning environment,” said this.