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NSFAS Payment Delays – What to Do When Approved Funding Doesn't Arrive

Your NSFAS funding was approved but payments haven't arrived. Understand common causes of payment delays and how to resolve them.

Note: This is an information guide. BestBrainz is not affiliated with NSFAS. Contact NSFAS directly for payment issues at www.nsfas.org.za.

If your NSFAS application was approved but you haven't received your payments, you're likely experiencing financial stress. Understanding why payments are delayed and what you can do can help resolve the situation faster.

Understanding NSFAS Payment Process

NSFAS payments are typically made:

  • Directly to your institution: For tuition and accommodation
  • To your bank account: For living allowances and book allowances
  • Monthly or per semester: Depending on your funding type

Common Causes of Payment Delays

1. Bank Account Issues

The most common cause of payment delays is incorrect or missing bank account information:

  • Bank account details not provided
  • Incorrect account number
  • Account name doesn't match NSFAS records
  • Account is closed or inactive
  • Bank verification failed

2. Institution Registration Problems

Payments can't be processed if:

  • You're not registered for the current academic period
  • Your institution hasn't confirmed your registration
  • Registration details don't match NSFAS records

If you're having registration issues, see our guide on NSFAS registration problems.

3. Missing or Incomplete Documentation

Even after approval, missing documents can delay payments:

  • Bank account confirmation documents
  • Updated registration proof
  • Signed funding agreement

4. System Processing Delays

During peak periods (start of academic year), NSFAS systems can experience:

  • High processing volumes
  • System maintenance
  • Bank processing delays

5. Academic Performance Requirements

If you're a continuing student, payments may be delayed if:

  • You haven't met academic progress requirements
  • Your academic results haven't been submitted
  • You're on academic probation

What to Do If Payments Are Delayed

Step 1: Check Your Payment Status

  1. Log in to your myNSFAS account
  2. Go to "My Applications" or "Funding Status"
  3. Check payment history and scheduled payments
  4. Look for any messages or notifications

Step 2: Verify Your Bank Account Details

Ensure your bank account information is correct:

  • Account number is correct
  • Account name matches your ID name
  • Bank name and branch code are correct
  • Account is active and can receive payments

If details are wrong, update them immediately in your myNSFAS account.

Step 3: Confirm Institution Registration

Verify with your institution that:

  • You are registered for the current academic period
  • Your registration has been confirmed with NSFAS
  • All registration fees are paid (if applicable)

Step 4: Check for Required Actions

Look for any pending actions in your myNSFAS account:

  • Documents that need to be submitted
  • Forms that need to be signed
  • Information that needs to be updated

Step 5: Contact NSFAS

If payments are delayed for more than 2 weeks after approval:

  • Email: info@nsfas.org.za
  • Phone: 08000 67327 (toll-free)
  • WhatsApp: 078 519 8006

When contacting NSFAS, have ready:

  • Your ID number
  • Student number
  • Application reference number
  • Details of when payment was expected

Step 6: Contact Your Institution

Your institution's financial aid office can:

  • Check if payments were received by the institution
  • Verify your registration status
  • Assist with payment queries
  • Liaise with NSFAS on your behalf

Payment Schedule Expectations

Typical NSFAS payment schedules:

  • First-time students: Payments usually start 4-6 weeks after registration confirmation
  • Continuing students: Payments typically start at the beginning of each semester
  • Living allowances: Usually paid monthly
  • Book allowances: Usually paid once per semester

How to Update Bank Account Details

If you need to update your bank account:

  1. Log in to your myNSFAS account
  2. Go to "My Profile" or "Banking Details"
  3. Click "Update" or "Edit"
  4. Enter your new bank account details
  5. Upload proof of bank account (bank statement or letter)
  6. Submit and wait for verification

Note: Bank account changes can take 1-2 weeks to process and verify.

What If Payment Was Sent to Wrong Account?

If NSFAS sent payment to the wrong account:

  1. Contact NSFAS immediately
  2. Report the incorrect payment
  3. Provide correct bank account details
  4. Submit proof of correct account
  5. Follow up regularly until resolved

Preventing Future Payment Delays

To avoid payment delays:

  • Keep your bank account details updated
  • Ensure your account remains active
  • Register for each academic period on time
  • Submit all required documents promptly
  • Maintain good academic standing
  • Respond to NSFAS requests immediately

Emergency Financial Assistance

While waiting for NSFAS payments:

  • Contact your institution's financial aid office for emergency assistance
  • Speak to your institution about payment plans
  • Check if your institution offers short-term loans
  • Contact NSFAS to explain your urgent situation

Related Help

If you're experiencing other issues: