Important Notice for NSFAS Beneficiaries – No Fees for Accommodation. NSFAS 2025 Beneficiaries this is a critical update that could affect your safety, finances, and right to access free and fair student services.
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has issued a firm and public warning against accommodation providers who exploit students financially or sexually.
NSFAS does not require students to pay fees related to NSFAS-approved student accommodation. If any service provider charges unauthorized fees or engages in unethical conduct, they will be held fully accountable.
Important Notice for NSFAS Beneficiaries
NSFAS beneficiaries are not required to pay fees for student housing.
This fraudulent and unethical behavior will be held accountable by any accommodation provider who charges such fees or engages in gender-based violence or sexual harassment.
No Fees Required for NSFAS Accommodation
In 2025, NSFAS will continue to provide comprehensive financial aid to more than 1 million students across South Africa. This includes full coverage of:
- Tuition fees
- Registration costs
- Learning materials
- Transport
- Living allowances
- Student accommodation
NSFAS has made it explicitly clear: if you are an NSFAS-funded student, you are not required to pay extra fees for accommodation already approved and paid for through the scheme.
“No NSFAS beneficiary should pay extra for accommodation services,” the organization emphasized.
Warning to Accommodation Providers
NSFAS has taken a zero-tolerance stance on fraud, sexual harassment, and gender-based violence in student housing environments.
Accommodation providers were found:
- Charging unauthorized fees
- Demanding payment outside NSFAS regulations
- Involved in any form of gender-based violence (GBV) or sexual exploitation
Will face serious consequences, including blacklisting, legal action, and removal from the NSFAS accommodation database.
This stern warning comes after multiple complaints by students who have faced unethical and criminal behavior from certain landlords or hostel owners.
NSFAS Stands Against Gender
South Africa faces a widespread crisis of gender-based violence, and NSFAS is actively working to ensure student accommodation spaces are safe, secure, and respectful.
Any form of sexual harassment, exploitation, or power abuse by landlords, caretakers, or peers is a violation of both the law and NSFAS policies.
“These practices are not only unethical, they are criminal,” NSFAS reiterated. “Every student has a right to study and live in a safe environment.”
Report Fraud or Misconduct
Students, parents, and other stakeholders are strongly encouraged to report any suspicious activity, including:
- Extra charges for accommodation
- Sexual harassment or inappropriate behavior
- Threats or coercion in exchange for housing or services
Report directly to the NSFAS Fraud Prevention Hotline at: [email protected]
Your report will remain confidential, and swift action will be taken to investigate and hold guilty parties accountable.
How Students Can Protect Themselves
Here are some practical tips for NSFAS-funded students when dealing with accommodation providers:
- Only accept accommodation approved through NSFAS channels
- Never pay upfront fees unless it’s part of an official institution invoice
- If you feel unsafe, report the issue immediately to NSFAS or your student support center
- Educate your peers about their rights as NSFAS beneficiaries
- Keep copies of all communication with landlords or caretakers
Building a Safe and Fair Student Community
NSFAS funding has opened the door for thousands of South African students to pursue higher education without financial pressure. However, this opportunity can be overshadowed when unethical housing providers exploit vulnerable students.
By ensuring that student rights are protected, NSFAS aims to create a safer, more inclusive academic environment for all. If you’re a student, stay aware. If you’re a provider, act responsibly. And if you see something unethical speak up.
Conclusion
To all NSFAS beneficiaries in 2025: Remember, your funding covers your accommodation in full. You are not obligated to pay any extra fees. More importantly, your dignity and safety should never be compromised for a place to stay.
