Many South African students depend on NSFAS meal support to get through their college life. In 2025, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is making sure that learners don’t go hungry by giving a fixed meal allowance every month. This support helps cover basic food needs and gives students one less thing to worry about.
If you’re funded by NSFAS, you’re already getting this help. The money goes directly to your student card, and it’s only meant to be used for buying groceries and meals. No paperwork or extra forms needed—it’s already part of your funding package.
Monthly Allowance Amount for Food
For the year 2025, each eligible student is receiving a monthly food money allowance of around R1,650. This is part of your full NSFAS support package and is meant to help with daily meals and nutrition.
Here’s what’s included:
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Monthly meal budget: R1,650
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Paid through: Student card or meal voucher system
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Purpose: Food, groceries, and campus meals only
This money is not extra—it’s already calculated in your 2025 allowance. You don’t need to apply separately for it.
Budgeting Your Food Money
To make the most of your NSFAS meal support, it’s smart to plan how you’ll spend your food budget 2025. Here’s a simple guide:
Sample Monthly Food Budget
| Item | Estimated Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Groceries (basic items) | R1,000 |
| Ready-made campus meals | R400 |
| Snacks and extras | R250 |
| Total | R1,650 |
This is just an example—you can adjust it based on what you eat and where you shop.
Who Gets This Allowance?
All students approved for SA student aid through NSFAS are already receiving this monthly food money. You don’t have to apply for it separately. As long as you’re funded, this allowance is automatically given.
Make sure you use it wisely. The money should only be spent on food and groceries. Buying non-food items may get you into trouble with your institution or funding body.
Why This Allowance Matters
The NSFAS meal support is more than just money—it’s a way to keep students healthy and focused on their studies. No student should have to skip meals because of financial issues. Thanks to this 2025 allowance, students now have one less thing to stress over.
Many learners across the country are already benefiting from the NSFAS meal support system. It gives them the strength to learn, grow, and succeed in school.
FAQs
How much do students get for meals in 2025?
Students receive R1,650 per month as part of their NSFAS meal support.
Can I use the food money for other expenses?
No. The monthly food money is strictly for meals and groceries only.
Do I need to apply separately for the food allowance?
No. If you’re approved for SA student aid, you automatically receive the 2025 allowance for meals.
How is the allowance paid?
It is usually loaded onto your student card or given as a voucher at partnered shops.
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Aanchal is a passionate writer with a keen interest in storytelling, content creation, and creative expression. She enjoys exploring diverse topics and crafting engaging narratives that captivate readers.