What to Buy with Your NSFAS Food Allowance to Survive a Month

Receiving a NSFAS Food allowance is a significant milestone for many students in South Africa, alleviating the financial burden of higher education. Yet, with the current economic climate, characterized by extreme living costs and soaring food prices surviving the month proves to be getting tricky for students.

Moreover, the indispensable need for internet connectivity for academic purposes means that the cost of WiFi and data bundles adds another layer of financial strain.

With these escalating expenses, managing a NSFAS Food allowance needs not only meticulous budgeting but also a strategic approach to spending. This guide aims to empower students with practical advice on stretching their allowance, ensuring it covers essentials ranging from groceries to academic supplies, amidst these challenging economic conditions.

How much is the NSFAS Food Allowance? Find Out!

Monthly Budget for Food and Toiletries

Total Monthly NSFAS Food Allowance: R1,450

• Food Allowance: R1 200
• Personal Care Allowance: R250

Food Budget: R1 200

1. Staple Foods (Rice, Pasta, Maize Meal, Bread): R300
   • These items are versatile and can be used in numerous meals throughout the month. Buying in bulk where possible can offer savings.
2. Proteins (Beans, Meat, Eggs, Chicken): R400
   • Focus on affordable protein sources. Purchasing whole chicken or darker cuts can be more economical. Eggs, beans, and lentils are cost-effective and nutritious.
3. Vegetables and Fruits: R250
   • Opt for seasonal produce to save money. Markets often have better deals than supermarkets. Frozen vegetables can be a good option for their longevity and nutritional value.
4. Dairy and Alternates (Milk, Cheese, Yogurt): R150
   • Essential for calcium and protein. Look for specials and consider long-life or powdered milk as budget-friendly alternatives.
5. Grains and Cereals (Breakfast Cereals, Oatmeal): R100
   • For breakfast and snacks. Buying store brands instead of name brands can save money.

Tip: How to Save Money on Groceries in South Africa’s Supermarkets

Toiletries Budget: R250

1. Basic Hygiene (Soap, Toothpaste, Deodorant): R100
   • Essential for daily hygiene. Bulk buying or generic brands can reduce costs.
2. Personal Care (Shampoo, Conditioner, Lotion): R100
   • Opt for combination products like 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner to save.
3. Healthcare Items (Pain Relievers, Sanitary Products): R50
   • Allocate a small portion for essential over-the-counter medications and sanitary products.

Tips for Maximizing Your NSFAS Food Allowance Budget

• Track Your Spending: Utilizing a notebook or budgeting app not only helps in monitoring expenses but also in identifying patterns in spending. Regular reviews allow for adjusting budgets in real-time, ensuring that you’re always aware of where your money is going. Consider setting weekly spending limits based on your observations to better manage your finances.

• Bulk Buying: Beyond staple foods and toiletries, consider bulk buying for non-perishable items such as laundry detergent, dish soap, and other cleaning supplies. Share the cost and quantities with friends or roommates to access bulk savings without the problem of storage or consumption before expiry.

• Look for Specials: Sign up for newsletters and loyalty programs at your local supermarkets and pharmacies. These often come with member-only discounts, early access to sales, and even points accumulation that can be converted into discounts or free items.

• Meal Planning: Invest time in learning basic cooking skills and recipes that can transform simple, inexpensive ingredients into tasty meals. Use leftovers creatively to ensure nothing goes to waste. For instance, leftover vegetables from dinner can be added to an omelet for breakfast or lunch.

• Cook at Home: Organize cooking sessions with friends where each person contributes an ingredient, spreading the cost and making the cooking process social and fun. This can be a great way to learn new recipes and enjoy a variety of meals without the high cost of dining out.

• Student Discounts: Beyond groceries and toiletries, explore student discounts for services such as internet, public transportation, and entertainment. Many companies offer significant discounts to students, which can help stretch your allowance further.

• Use Public Libraries and Online Resources: For academic needs, utilize public libraries and free online resources before purchasing books or subscriptions. Many libraries offer access to textbooks, scientific journals, and even software that can be invaluable for your studies.

• Smart Transportation Choices: Evaluate the cost and time benefits of various transportation options. Sometimes, combining walking or cycling with public transportation can be not only economical but also healthy.

• Minimize Unnecessary Tech Expenses: Instead of opting for the latest gadgets, consider refurbished or second-hand devices that meet your needs. Additionally, look out for free Wi-Fi zones on campus or in public areas to save on data expenses.

• Utilize Campus Amenities: Take full advantage of any amenities your campus offers for free or at a reduced cost, such as gyms, sports facilities, and health clinics. These can offer substantial savings over external services.

Managing your NSFAS Food allowance requires discipline and smart budgeting. By prioritizing essential expenses and looking for ways to save, you can ensure that your allowance covers your needs for the entire month. Remember, the key to financial stability is not just about how much you get but how wisely you spend it.