How Does The New NSFAS Card Work?

If you’re a student funded by the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) in South Africa, you’ve likely heard about the new NSFAS Mastercard. This card represents a major upgrade in how your monthly allowances are distributed and managed. Instead of receiving funds through third-party service providers or directly into your bank account, the process is now simpler and more secure.

The NSFAS Mastercard isn’t just another payment method, it’s part of NSFAS’s goal to give students greater financial control, improve transparency, and reduce fraud. To get started and manage your card, simply log in NSFAS through the official portal. In this guide, you’ll learn how the new card works, how to activate it, and the benefits it offers throughout your academic journey.

What Is the NSFAS Mastercard?

The NSFAS Mastercard is a debit card linked to a digital wallet, specifically created for NSFAS beneficiaries. NSFAS partnered with service providers such as Tenet Technology, eZaga, and Norraco to manage this system.

Here’s what the card allows you to do:

• Receive your NSFAS allowances directly

• Make purchases at stores that accept Mastercard

• Withdraw cash at ATMs or retail outlets

• Track your spending using a mobile app

• Access statements and balances instantly

This change took a full rollout expected by early 2025 across all universities and TVET colleges.

Why Was the NSFAS Card Introduced?

The old system had several problems, including:

• Delayed payments

• Fraud and mismanagement

• Lack of student financial oversight

• Dependency on external bank accounts

The new card system is designed to solve these problems by:

• Ensuring faster and more secure payments

• Reducing third-party handling

• Empowering students to manage their money independently

• Improving compliance and audit trails for NSFAS

How to Get and Activate Your NSFAS Card

Getting your NSFAS card is straightforward. Here’s what you need to do:

Step 1: Receive Your Invitation

You’ll get an SMS or email from NSFAS or your allocated service provider (e.g., Tenet, Norraco, or eZaga) with instructions. Make sure your contact details on the myNSFAS portal are up to date.

Step 2: Register Online

Visit your service provider’s platform and complete your registration via https://nsfasstatus.co.za/. You’ll likely need:

• Your South African ID

• A student ID or registration proof

• Contact information (phone number and email)

Step 3: Collect Your Card

You’ll be notified when and where to collect your card, usually at your campus. Bring your ID and student card for verification.

Step 4: Activate the Card

Follow the steps given by your provider to activate your card via their mobile app or website. This usually includes:

• Setting a secure PIN

• Linking your mobile number

• Verifying your identity via one-time passwords (OTP)

Once activated, your monthly allowances will be loaded directly onto the card.

What Can You Use the NSFAS Card For?

Your card works like any standard debit card and can be used for:

• Buying groceries, books, and toiletries

• Paying for transport and mobile data

• Withdrawing cash at ATMs and major retailers (e.g., Shoprite, Pick n Pay, Boxer)

• Online purchases on approved sites

Spend Management Tools

Through the partner app, you can:

• Track your transactions

• Set spending limits

• Get SMS/email alerts

• Access mini-statements

This is especially helpful if you’re trying to budget your allowance effectively.

Frequently Asked Questions

The new NSFAS Mastercard is more than a convenient payment method, it’s a powerful financial tool designed to give you autonomy, speed, and security. With better control over your spending and clearer insight into your finances, you’ll be better positioned to focus on what matters most: your education.