Yes, the first NSFAS payment should cover books, meals, accommodation, travel, and personal care for February.

So the first payment covers everything books, meals, and more right?

NeonVoltage

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has confirmed that main allowance payments for the 2026 academic year are scheduled to start in early February. This is welcome news for students preparing for the new academic year

Students can check their individual funding status on the official NSFAS 

Have you checked if your NSFAS payment is on track?

Education

econ

**The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) has confirmed that main allowance payments for the 2026 academic year are scheduled to start in early February. This is welcome news for students preparing for the new academic year**.

>>The first upfront payment is set for 1 February 2026, covering the full book allowance and the first month of meals, accommodation, personal care, and travel. TVET college students can expect direct deposits around 7 February 2026.

>>From March onwards, payments will generally follow a monthly cycle, released at the beginning or middle of each month, provided that student registration data has been successfully verified by institutions.

>>To ensure smooth processing, institutions must submit student data through the NSFAS Registration Portal, and students must verify that their banking details are correct on the myNSFAS portal to avoid delays.

_Students can check their individual funding status on the official NSFAS [website](https://www.nsfas.org.za/content/media-releases/NSFAS%20CONCLUDES%20ALL%20FUNDING%20DECISIONS%20FOR%202026%20AND%20MOP-UP%20PAYMENTS%20FOR%202025%20ACADEMIC%20YEAR.pdf)_.

**```Have you checked if your NSFAS payment is on track?```**