NSFAS has launched the Digital Learning Device Project, whereby NSFAS funded students can apply to receive a laptop from their learning material allowance. The goal of the Digital Learning Device Project is to help students gain access to online learning during Covid-19, after Universities and TVET Colleges shut down their physical campuses.
There are a lot of questions about the NSFAS laptop initiative and we would therefore like to address some of these queries, such as who qualifies for a NSFAS laptop, whether there is any fee involved, how to apply to receive the laptop, as well as when and where you will receive the laptop.
Who qualifies for a NSFAS laptop?
Only students who are currently funded by NSFAS can order the laptop.
Students must be registered to study at a public university or TVET College
Students must sign the T&C’s when ordering the laptop
Students must have NOT previously received a laptop from their university or TVET College
Who does NOT qualify for a NSFAS laptop?
Students who are not currently funded by NSFAS
Students who have already received a laptop from their tertiary institute
Students who receive laptops in their enrolment package
Students who have not signed the T&C’s when ordering the laptop
TVET Colleges students in Trimester 1 students
Do I have to pay for the laptop or is it free?
The laptop will be deducted from students learning material allowance. The current learning material allowance is R5 200 per year, to be used towards textbooks, devices and other required study materials. Therefore, students should choose between a laptop or textbooks, as the allowance is not enough to cover both.
What type of laptop will I receive?
Students will be given 3 options when ordering laptops – if the one they wish to order is unavailable, they should monitor the NSFAS website regularly until the laptop is available.
How do I order a NSFAS laptop?
1) Visit the NSFAS website
2) Go to myNSFAS
3) Go to Order NSFAS laptop online
4) Fill in your ID number
5) Fill in any additional information (student number, name of the institution and campus you are registered at, contact details and home address)
6) Agree to the T&C’s
How will I get my NSFAS laptop?
After placing your order for the laptop (following the steps above) and you have passed all the necessary checks, NSFAS will contact you to collect your laptop at the campus you are registered at.
When will I get my NSFAS laptop?
Deliveries of the NSFAS laptops are expected to arrive from 18 April 2021, however there may be a waiting period.