NSFAS, bursaries and your rent

If NSFAS or a bursary pays your rent, a few extra checks will save you a lot of stress.

NSFAS students

• Ask whether the property is accredited for your institution. Accreditation is usually per institution, so check with your institution's housing or residence office.
• Ask how the landlord gets paid (directly by NSFAS or the institution, or by you from your allowance) and what happens if a payment is late.
• Keep copies of your lease and any forms you sign.

NSFAS rules, allowance amounts and payment dates change. Check them on the official NSFAS website and with your institution's accommodation office.

On Campus Galleries, NSFAS budgets show as R5 200 a month. The real allowance can change, so always confirm the current amount with NSFAS or your institution.

Bursary students

• Find out the maximum your bursary pays for accommodation, and whether it pays the landlord directly.
• Ask your bursary office what paperwork the landlord must provide.

Self-funded

• Use the budget planner to see what rent you can really afford after food, transport and data.

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