How long does it take for Dad and partner pay to be approved?

The length of time that goes by before you are paid your Dad and Partner Pay is dependent on whether or not your claim is finalized before your nominated start date. Ensure you have done the following:

  • Lodge a claim for your Dad and Partner Pay
  • Nominate a start date which could be your child’s birthday or adoption day. Ensure you do this within 50 weeks after your child is born or adopted.

Claim finalized before your nominated start date

Within a few days, your Dad and Partner Pay will be approved and paid if your claim is finalized before your nominated date. You will be paid when the Dad and Partner period begins; in a few days, you should get the money.

Claim finalized after your nominated start date

If your claim is finalized after the start date you nominated, you will be paid after your claim finalize.

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How to claim

Complete the following steps to claim Dad and Partner Pay. Before you start, check if you can get it.

You can apply for the maximum 2 weeks of Dad and Partner Pay. You need to apply no more than 50 weeks after the birth or adoption of your child. The best time to apply is before the birth or adoption of your child. You can’t be paid before the birth or adoption of your child. Below is a list of steps to take in lodging your claim.

  1. Talk to your employer at least 10 weeks before your child’s expected date of birth or adoption, your intention to claim your Dad and Partner Pay and negotiate your unpaid leave.
  2. Get ready to claim. The easiest way to claim is online. To claim online, you need a Centrelink online account linked to myGov. If you don’t have a myGov account or a Centrelink online account you’ll need to set them up.  You’ll need to get some supporting documents ready to help answer some of the questions in the claim. You may need to prove your identity with us before you start your claim.
  3. Claim online. If your Centrelink account is linked to myGov you can apply online. To do this:
    • Sign in to myGov.
    • Select Make a claim or view claim status, then Make a claim.
    • Under Families select Get started.
    • Select Apply for Family Assistance Payments (including Paid Parental Leave) then follow the prompts to complete your claim. OR
  4. Call the Centrelink Families line on 136 150. You may also visit a service centre to lodge your claim.

Summary

You can nominate a start date for your Dad and Partner Pay in your claim. Your start date can be either:

  • the day of your child’s birth or adoption
  • another date, no more than 52 weeks after your child’s birth or adoption

You get paid when your Dad and Partner Pay period begins. You’ll get the payment within a few days of your start date.

Student Loans in South Africa: How to Apply and What to Expect

For many young South Africans, accessing higher education is a dream that often comes with a financial challenge. Fortunately, several student loan optionsstrong> are available in South Africa to help fund university, college, or TVET studies. Whether you’re looking for a government loan like NSFAS or a private student loan from a bank, understanding the process is essential for success.

What Are Student Loans?

Student loans are a form of financial aid provided to eligible students to help cover tuition fees, books, accommodation, and other study-related expenses. In South Africa, these loans can come from government institutions like NSFAS or private banks such as Nedbank, Standard Bank, FNB, and Absa. Most loans offer repayment flexibility and low-interest options until you graduate.

Types of Student Loans in South Africa

  • NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme): A government-funded loan/grant program for students from low-income households. Covers tuition, housing, transport, and meals.
  • Bank Student Loans: Offered by most major banks. These are credit-based and require a guardian or parent as a co-signer.
  • Private Loan Providers: Companies like Fundi offer educational loans covering various costs such as school fees, gadgets, and textbooks.

Requirements to Qualify for a Student Loan

Each provider has its own criteria, but most South African student loans require the following:

  • Proof of South African citizenship or permanent residency
  • Proof of registration or acceptance at a recognised tertiary institution
  • Parent or guardian with a stable income to co-sign (for private loans)
  • Completed application form with supporting documents (ID, proof of income, academic records)

How to Apply for a Student Loan

To apply for a student loan in South Africa, follow these steps:

  1. Identify your loan provider: Choose between NSFAS, a bank, or a private lender.
  2. Gather necessary documents: ID copies, academic transcripts, acceptance letters, and income statements.
  3. Complete the application form online or at a branch.
  4. Await approval: Some banks offer instant decisions, while NSFAS can take a few weeks.
  5. Receive disbursement: Funds are typically paid directly to the institution or your account, depending on the lender.

Loan Amounts and Repayment

The loan amount you can receive depends on your chosen lender and financial need:

  • NSFAS: Covers full tuition, residence, books, and a personal allowance. The loan becomes a bursary if you pass all your courses.
  • Banks: Can provide up to R120,000 or more annually, depending on tuition costs and credit history.

Repayment usually starts after graduation or once you start earning an income. Bank loans may require interest-only payments during your studies. NSFAS repayment only begins when you earn above a specific income threshold.

FAQs on Student Loans in South Africa

1. Can I apply for a student loan without a parent or guardian?

For government loans like NSFAS, yes. But most banks require a financially responsible co-signer, especially for students without an income.

2. Is NSFAS a loan or a bursary?

NSFAS starts as a loan, but it converts to a bursary if you meet academic performance requirements. This means you may not have to pay it back.

3. What is the interest rate on student loans?

Private banks offer competitive rates between 5% and 12%, depending on the applicant's credit profile. NSFAS charges a much lower interest rate, usually linked to inflation.

4. What happens if I fail my courses?

If you’re funded by NSFAS and fail, your loan won’t convert into a bursary, and you’ll need to repay the full amount. Banks may continue charging interest, and your co-signer may be held liable.

5. Can I use a student loan to pay for accommodation and laptops?

Yes. Both NSFAS and many bank student loans cover costs beyond tuition, including housing, meals, textbooks, and electronic devices like laptops or tablets.

Final Thoughts

Student loans in South Africa offer a much-needed financial lifeline to thousands of students every year. Whether you're applying through **NSFAS** or a private bank, ensure you understand the **terms, interest rates, and repayment conditions** before signing any agreement. Make informed decisions today to secure your academic and financial future tomorrow.