If you’re receiving student funding, it’s important to know how to check your NSFAS balance. In 2025, NSFAS uses different payment providers like Coinvest, Tenet, eZaga, and the old NSFAS Wallet system. Each one has its own method for checking your balance.
This guide will help you find out which system you’re using and how to check your balance step by step.
Ways to Check Your NSFAS Balance in 2025
Students receive NSFAS allowances through one of four main platforms. Here’s how each one works:
1. NSFAS Wallet (Mobile Wallet System)
Some students, especially those registered at TVET colleges, still receive their allowances through the NSFAS Wallet.
To check your balance:
- Dial
*120*176#from your registered phone number. - Enter your Wallet PIN when asked.
- Your current balance will be shown on screen.
You can also:
- Receive SMS updates after each payment.
- Request your PIN by sending “PIN” to
*120*176#if you forgot it.
2. Coinvest NSFAS
Coinvest is one of the digital banking partners NSFAS is using in 2025.
You can check your balance in three ways:
- Coinvest App: Login and view your Wallet tab.
- Online Portal: Visit nsfas.coinvest.africa and enter your login details.
- USSD: Dial the Coinvest USSD code (varies by campus) to check your balance without internet.
Read our full Coinvest NSFAS Balance Guide for step-by-step help.
3. Tenet NSFAS
Tenet is another NSFAS-approved service provider for managing student allowances.
Ways to check your Tenet NSFAS balance:
- Tenet App: Download from the Google Play Store or App Store. Log in using your registered ID or email. Your balance will appear on the home screen.
- Online Portal: Visit www.tenetwallet.co.za and log in to check your balance and transactions.
- Email or SMS notifications: Tenet also sends payment notifications directly to your registered contact details.
Make sure your account is activated and your institution has confirmed your registration before checking your balance.
4. eZaga NSFAS
eZaga is a mobile banking partner for NSFAS students, often used by university students.
How to check your eZaga NSFAS balance:
- eZaga App: Available on Play Store and App Store. After logging in, your balance appears on the dashboard.
- Online Banking: Visit www.ezaga.co.za and sign in.
- SMS notifications: You’ll get a message when funds are received or spent.
If you’ve just signed your agreement or registered, give it a few days before your first balance shows.
Step-by-Step: How to Check NSFAS Wallet Balance (via USSD)
The NSFAS Wallet uses a USSD system that works even on feature phones. Here’s how to check your balance using the 120 code:
Step 1: Dial *120*176# from the phone number registered with NSFAS.
Step 2: Enter your Wallet PIN when asked.
Step 3: Select the option for “Check Balance” from the menu.
Step 4: Your balance will appear on your screen.
Step 5: You’ll also receive an SMS with your latest NSFAS Wallet activity.
Quick tip: If you forgot your PIN, dial *120*176# and select “Forgot PIN.” You’ll receive a new one via SMS.
Troubleshooting: Why Your NSFAS Balance Might Show R0.00
If your balance shows R0.00, don’t panic. It’s a common issue and usually linked to one of the following:
- Registration Not Confirmed
NSFAS only releases funds after your college or university sends your official registration details. - Bursary Agreement Not Signed
Log in to your myNSFAS portal and sign the NBA (NSFAS Bursary Agreement). No funds are paid until this is done. - Payment Delayed
NSFAS follows a monthly payment schedule. Allowances usually start in March, but delays can happen depending on your institution. - Technical Error on the Platform
Coinvest, Tenet, or Wallet systems sometimes experience downtime. Wait a few hours and try again. - Wrong Login or Phone Number
Make sure you’re using the number or login details you registered with NSFAS and your payment provider.
If your balance is still wrong after a few days, contact your institution’s financial aid office or the support team of your NSFAS payment provider.
FAQ: Check NSFAS Balance
How often does NSFAS send payments?
NSFAS sends monthly allowances between March and November. Some institutions may delay the first payment.
How do I know which payment system I’m using?
Check your myNSFAS portal or ask your institution. You’ll also get a welcome SMS or email from your assigned provider.
Can I use someone else’s phone to check my balance?
No. USSD codes and apps are linked to your registered ID and mobile number. Use your own device.
What do I do if my balance says R0.00?
Check if your bursary agreement is signed and your registration confirmed. If all is done, contact your payment partner.
Can I change from one payment partner to another?
Not by choice. NSFAS assigns providers. You can only switch if NSFAS reassigns you due to technical issues or official decisions.
Why haven’t I received a payment SMS?
You may not be fully registered, or your network provider may have delayed the message. Log in to your wallet or app to confirm.
What is the NSFAS Wallet USSD code?
Dial *120*176# from your registered number.
Can I access my balance with no airtime?
Yes. USSD codes are free on most networks. You only need signal, not airtime or data.
What’s the safest method to check my balance?
Use your provider’s official app or portal. Always log out after checking, especially on shared devices.
Who do I contact if something is wrong?
Contact your payment provider (Coinvest, Tenet, eZaga, or NSFAS Wallet) or your institution’s financial aid office.
Conclusion
Checking your NSFAS balance is a simple but important part of managing your student funding. Make sure you know which payment system you’re using and how to access it.
If your balance shows zero or you don’t receive a payment, always check that your registration is complete and your bursary agreement is signed. For any problems, contact your payment partner or financial aid office as soon as possible.
