If you are a TVET College student, you will get about 15% to 25% less NSFAS funding compared to a university student who attends a contact university like UJ, TUT or Wits. However, you will still get paid far more than a UNISA student, who only receives R263.92 per month and a once-off book allowance.
As compared to university students, NSFAS will pay TVET College students less money for the following reasons:
- Most TVET courses are shorter or practical-based with fewer living expenses
- Many TVET students live closer to home or do not require full accommodation
- TVET College fees are generally lower than university tuition
- Academic calendars may differ, which affects the number of funded months
How Much Does NSFAS Pay for TVET Students vs Universities
Based on 2025 data, NSFAS pays TVET College students between R2,000 and R6,400 per month, depending on whether they are staying at home, in private accommodation, or a college residence.
Here is a breakdown of how much TVET College students get from NSFAS:
TVET College Students (Non-Catered, Metro Area)
- Accommodation: R52,000 per year = R4,333 per month
- Living Allowance: R17,160 per year = R1,430 per month
- Transport Allowance: R8,027 per year = R668.91 per month
- Personal Care: Already included in the living allowance
That totals around R6,431.91 per month, if all conditions are met.
On the other hand, university students such as those at UJ, UKZN, or Wits receive higher funding because of higher cost of living, stricter course structures, and higher academic demands.
University Students (Non-Catered, Metro Area)
- Accommodation: R52,000 per year = R4,333 per month
- Living Allowance: R17,160 per year = R1,430 per month
- Transport Allowance: R8,190 per year = R682.50 per month
- Personal Care: R3,167 per year = R263.92 per month
This adds up to R6,709.42 per month, with some students receiving even more if they qualify for disability support or catered residences.
NSFAS 2025 Allowance Comparison Table
| Category | UNISA | TVET College (Metro, Non-Catered) | University (Metro, Non-Catered) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | None | R4,333 p/m | R4,333 p/m |
| Living Allowance | None | R1,430 p/m (includes personal care) | R1,430 p/m |
| Transport | None | R668.91 p/m | R682.50 p/m |
| Personal Care | R263.92 p/m | Included in living | R263.92 p/m |
| Learning Materials | R5,678 once-off | Included in living | Usually once-off extra |
| Total Monthly Value | R263.92 | R6,431.91 | R6,709.42 |
So even though TVET students do get less than university students, they are still better off than UNISA students. Your location (metro vs non-metro), living arrangements, and college policies will also affect how much you receive.