NSFAS USSD Code

Quick Answer

The official NSFAS USSD code to check your funding application status on a mobile phone is *120*67327#. If you are checking or managing allowance vouchers via the NSFAS Wallet system (formerly sBUX), the dedicated USSD code is *134*176#.

• Last Verified: July 2026
• Primary Function: Status check (*120*67327#), allowance & cash voucher generation (*134*176#).
• Network Requirement: Standard mobile network signal across MTN, Vodacom, Telkom, or Cell C (no active internet or mobile data needed).
• Availability Note: Status updates depend on system sync times. If the USSD service is experiencing high network traffic, you can complete the same task via the myNSFAS web portal or official WhatsApp line.

What the Service Is and Who Can Use It

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) USSD service is a zero-data and low-data text-based menu provided for South African tertiary students and applicants. It allows users to query application progress, verify funding status, or handle student allowance vouchers using any mobile phone (including feature/basic phones) without an internet connection.

Eligible Users

• Prospective & Current Students: South African citizens and permanent residents who have submitted a bursary application to study at a public university or TVET college.
• NSFAS Wallet Beneficiaries: Students at eligible TVET colleges or participating institutions assigned to manage cash or merchant vouchers directly via mobile phone.

Requirements & Prerequisites

• Registered Cellphone Number: The SIM card used to dial the code must match the mobile number registered on your official myNSFAS profile.
• Valid South African ID Number: You will be required to enter your 13-digit SA ID number to authenticate your identity during the session.
• Account Security: For wallet transactions, you must have an established sBUX/NSFAS Wallet password.

How to Access the Service

Before You Start

• Ensure your phone has basic network signal bars.
• Have your 13-digit South African ID number ready.
• Have a pen or notepad nearby if you need to write down voucher codes or status reference numbers.
• Ensure you are dialing from the SIM card registered on your myNSFAS account.

Verified Step-by-Step Process

Option A: Checking Application / Funding Status

1. Open the phone dialer on your mobile device.
2. Dial *120*67327# and press the Call/Send button.
3. Select the menu option for Check Application Status.
4. Enter your 13-digit South African ID Number when prompted.
5. Follow the on-screen menu prompts to select the current academic year.
6. Read your status update displayed on the screen or wait for an automated confirmation SMS.

Option B: Accessing Allowance / NSFAS Wallet (*134*176#)

1. Dial *134*176# on your mobile phone.
2. Enter your 13-digit ID Number (for initial verification) or your Wallet Password.
3. Select Option 1 to create a Cash Voucher or Option 3/4 for merchant payments.
4. Enter the desired allowance amount (subject to daily limits) and confirm.

Confirmation or Expected Result

• For Status Check (*120*67327#): An immediate on-screen status message will display your current state (e.g., Provisionally Funded, Awaiting Academic Results, Verification in Progress, or Application Approved). An SMS containing the status explanation may also be delivered to your inbox.
• For Wallet Access (*134*176#): Once a voucher is created, a unique multi-digit voucher code will appear on your screen and be sent via SMS. This code can be presented at participating retailers (such as Shoprite, Checkers, Usave, SPAR, or Boxer) to draw cash or pay for goods.

Fees, Limits, Eligibility, and Processing Times

Common Problems and Troubleshooting

Code, Session, SIM, or Account Errors

• “Session Timed Out”: USSD sessions automatically disconnect after 20 seconds of inactivity. Redial the code and enter your inputs promptly.
• “Invalid ID or User Not Found”: Ensure you are dialing from the exact SIM card/phone number attached to your myNSFAS profile. If you recently changed phone numbers, you must update your details on the official online portal first.
• “Connection Problem or Invalid MMI Code”: This usually indicates heavy network congestion or a temporary network drop. Wait a few minutes, restart your network connection, or switch between 3G/4G/5G, then try again.
• “Access Denied / Incorrect Password” (Wallet): If you enter the incorrect wallet password multiple times, your USSD access will be locked. Request a password reset via the myNSFAS portal or contact the support line.

When the Service Has Changed or Is Unavailable

During peak application periods or system updates, USSD channels may become temporarily unavailable. If the code fails repeatedly or returns an error message:

1. Do not re-enter sensitive details multiple times on unverified prompts.
2. Switch to an official alternative route such as the web portal or WhatsApp line.
3. Check your financial aid office at your university or TVET college to verify if your institution uses direct bank distribution or the NSFAS Wallet method.

Official Alternatives

If the USSD route is down or you need to perform actions not supported by USSD (like uploading missing documents or submitting an appeal), use these official channels:

• Official Web Portal: my.nsfas.org.za (Full service: status check, application, document uploads, appeals).
• Official WhatsApp Service: Add +27 63 093 5671 or +27 78 519 8006, send “Hi”, and follow the prompts.
• Toll-Free Call Centre: 08000 67327 (08000 NSFAS) — Available Monday to Friday during business hours.
• Email Support: [email protected].
• Social Media Handles: @myNSFAS on X (Twitter), Facebook, and Instagram.

Safety and Privacy

• Never Share Passwords or OTPs: NSFAS officials will never call or message you asking for your account password, wallet PIN, or One-Time PIN (OTP).
• Beware of Phishing Scams: Only enter your ID number into official USSD codes (*120*67327# or *134*176#). Ignore unofficial shortcodes or third-party social media agents claiming to “speed up” or “approve” funding for a fee.
• Protect Your SIM Card: Your NSFAS allowance access is linked directly to your cell phone number. If your phone or SIM card is lost or stolen, contact NSFAS and your mobile network immediately to block wallet access.
• Report Suspicious Activity: Report fraud, scams, or unauthorized allowance deductions via the official fraud hotline email: [email protected].

Related Guides & Services

• Government USSD Codes — Comprehensive index of official South African public service mobile menus.
• NSFAS Status Check USSD Code — Focused guide on tracking bursary application stages.
• Fundi USSD Code — Quick navigation for Fundi educational loan and allowance management.
• GEMS USSD Code — Access guide for Government Employees Medical Scheme mobile services.
• GEPF USSD Code — Mobile service details for Government Employees Pension Fund queries.
• USSD Codes South Africa — Directory of essential banking, grant, and municipal USSD strings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current NSFAS USSD Code?

The official USSD code to check your NSFAS application status is *120*67327#. For managing allowances on the NSFAS Wallet system, dial *134*176#.

What tasks are available in the NSFAS USSD menu?

Using *120*67327#, you can check your funding status and view application updates. Using *134*176#, eligible users can check cash balances, create withdrawal vouchers, and make merchant payments at participating stores.

Which customers or account types can use the USSD code?

South African students who have applied for or received NSFAS funding for public universities or TVET colleges can use the service. Your mobile number must match the number registered on your myNSFAS account.

What should I do if the NSFAS USSD route does not work?

If the USSD prompt fails or times out, verify your mobile network signal and check that you are using the registered SIM. If it still fails, use the official myNSFAS online portal (my.nsfas.org.za), message the NSFAS WhatsApp line (+27 63 093 5671), or call 08000 67327.