John Warlock
In August 2025, NSFAS relaunched its Digital Learning Device (DLD) Scheme, offering a once‑off laptop worth R5,200 to eligible students enrolled at public universities or TVET colleges.
The order portal opened in early September, enabling NSFAS-funded students to claim devices essential for online learning and academic success.
Scheme Aims & Recent Updates
- Bridge the digital divide for students from low-income backgrounds.
- Align with the Digital Education Strategy 2025–2029, enhancing access to online platforms and digital learning resources.
- Funded through NSFAS’s R47.6 billion overall budget, with moneys designated for education technology including devices.
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Who Qualifies & Device Benefit
Who Can Apply?
- NSFAS-funded students currently registered at a public university or TVET college.
- Must not have previously received a laptop via NSFAS devices.
- Active registration status and academic progression eligibility (N+ rules) must be satisfied.
What the Scheme Offers
- A once-off Digital Learning Device (DLD) valued at ~R5,200, fully funded by NSFAS.
- The allowance is deducted from the learning material allowance, but students do not bear additional cost.
- Device features include adequate RAM and storage, pre-installed academic software, and webcam for online sessions.
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Application & Distribution Timeline (Aug–Sep 2025)
| Milestone | Date / Period |
|---|---|
| DLD Online Portal Activated | Early September 2025 |
| Student Order Submission Window | Sep 1 – Sep 30, 2025 |
| Verification by institution | Within 2 weeks of order |
| Dispatch of devices by vendor | Starting October 2025 |
| Collection / Home Delivery | Oct–Nov 2025 |
- Order Portal opened September 2025; NSFAS-funded students accessed via myNSFAS or DLD portal.
- Institutions verify registrations and progress; approved orders forwarded to vendors like Pinnacle ICT.
- NSFAS service providers contact students to arrange collection at campus or delivery; students must present ID and student card upon receipt.
- No proxies allowed—students must be present to sign and accept the device.
How to Apply: Step‑by‑Step
- Log into your account on myNSFAS portal and access the Digital Learning Device (DLD) portal.
- Submit your order, supplying ID number, student number, institution details, campus, and contact address. Accept the terms and conditions.
- Your institution verifies your order and academic eligibility.
- Approved orders are forwarded to the NSFAS service vendor for delivery logistics.
- Attend delivery or collection as confirmed; bring ID, student card, and sign forms.
Impact of the Scheme in 2025
- Ensures equal online access for financially disadvantaged students, especially those in rural or under-resourced areas.
- Improves engagement with Learning Management Systems, online lectures, and digital resources.
- Critical during hybrid learning models—no need to finance personal devices for educational continuity.
- Supports broader government objectives for inclusive higher education and digital transformation.
Important Notes & Precautions
- Students who have previously received a laptop under NSFAS are not eligible again.
- Device is not repayable, but must be returned if the student withdraws from studies or fails to complete the year.
- NSFAS does not reimburse lost or stolen devices—students are encouraged to insurance or safe storage.
- Applications must strictly follow the September window—late orders may not be processed.
NSFAS’s Digital Learning Device Scheme, relaunched in September 2025, provides eligible higher education and TVET students with a R5,200 laptop, fully funded and distributed via a verified online portal.
This device empowers access to digital learning, supports academic success, and strengthens education equity. Eligible students should apply promptly and track progress via myNSFAS.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I qualify automatically for a laptop?
Only if you are an active NSFAS-funded student at a public university or TVET college, haven’t received a laptop previously, and submitted your order through the September 2025 portal.
2. How much is the laptop worth and who pays?
The once-off R5,200 laptop is entirely funded via NSFAS’s learning material allowance; no repayment required from students.
3. What if I lose my laptop or withdraw from studies?
The device must be returned or may incur funding liability upon withdrawal. NSFAS does not replace lost or stolen laptops. Students are advised to store or insure devices safely.