As a South African student, managing bursary or NSFAS funds can feel overwhelming. Between tuition, accommodation, textbooks, data, and daily expenses, your allowance can disappear faster than you expect. But with a few smart strategies, you can make your bursary last the full academic year—and even save some for emergencies or festive season needs.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to stretch your NSFAS or bursary money effectively.
1. Create a Realistic Budget
The first step to financial control is knowing exactly where your money is going.
- List all monthly expenses, including tuition, rent, food, transport, and study materials.
- Include variable expenses like data, airtime, and occasional social events.
- Allocate a fixed amount for each category, and track your spending weekly.
Tip: Use free tools like Google Sheets or apps like Wallet or YNAB to manage your budget digitally.
2. Prioritize Essentials
Your bursary should cover necessities first, not luxuries.
- Rent and tuition are non-negotiable.
- Food and transport come next. Buy groceries in bulk and avoid eating out too often.
- Entertainment, fashion, or gadgets should only be considered after essentials are fully covered.
Tip: Student discounts and meal plans can reduce food and transport costs significantly.
3. Shop Smart and Save
Stretching your bursary means spending wisely:
- Compare prices online before buying textbooks or electronics.
- Use student-friendly stores like Takealot, Loot, or Temu for deals.
- Take advantage of discount codes, cashback offers, and festive promotions.
- Buy second-hand textbooks or digital versions when possible.
Tip: Group purchases with classmates can save on bulk items like stationery.
4. Track Every Rand
Even small expenses add up.
- Keep a daily log of spending.
- Avoid impulse purchases by asking yourself if each expense is necessary.
- Check your bank account regularly to spot unusual deductions or fees.
Tip: Free banking apps like TymeBank, Capitec, or FNB make tracking easier and provide instant notifications.
5. Find Ways to Supplement Your Bursary
Stretching your funds isn’t just about cutting costs—it’s also about earning extra income.
- Look for part-time jobs or freelance gigs suitable for students.
- Consider tutoring younger students or offering online services like content writing, coding help, or design.
- Apply for short-term bursaries or stipends offered by universities or private organizations.
Tip: Even a small monthly side income can relieve pressure on your main bursary funds.
6. Plan for Emergencies
Unexpected costs happen—medical bills, transport delays, or urgent academic requirements.
- Set aside a small emergency fund from your bursary each month, even R100–R200.
- Avoid relying on credit cards or payday loans—they can create long-term financial stress.
Final Thoughts
Managing your bursary wisely is a skill that will benefit you long after university. By budgeting carefully, prioritizing essentials, shopping smart, tracking your spending, finding extra income, and planning for emergencies, you can make your NSFAS or bursary funds stretch further than you thought possible.
For more tips on bursaries and student funding, check out our guides on NSFAS statuses and how to write a bursary motivational letter.
Disclaimer: The information in this post is for educational purposes only. Uni-Diaries.co.za is not responsible for any financial decisions you make based on this content. Always verify details with official sources such as NSFAS and your university.
