What if I forgot the number I used to apply for SASSA R350?


If you’ve forgotten the phone number you used to apply for the SASSA R350 grant, you may need to take some steps to recover or retrieve the information. Here’s what you can do:

The process of SASSA Change Phone Number is simple and only takes 1 minute. Make sure you have the Identity card number that you used to apply for the SASSA SRD grant to change your number.

Sassa outlined three options to change your details:

CHANGE IT ON THE WEBSITE

Visit the Sassa website here or the SRD portal here.

GIVE THEM A CALL

Applicants can contact Sassa’s toll free call centre on 0800 60 10 11.

SEND AN EMAIL

Email grantenquiries@sassa.gov.za

HERE ARE THE STEPS TO CHANGE YOUR PHONE NUMBER ONLINE

  1. Visit the SASSA services portal to access your SASSA account.
  2. Enter your 13-digit South African Identity Number in the “ID Number” box.
  3. Input your 6-digit Application ID (App ID) provided by SASSA for grant approval.
  4. Click “Submit” to verify your identity as the original applicant.
  5. Select “Change Phone Number.”
  6. Provide your new cell phone number to update your SASSA application contact details.
  7. You’ll receive an SMS containing an OTP on the provided cell phone number for verification.
  8. Enter the SASSA OTP code and click “Verify Pin.”
  9. You’ll receive another message to confirm your request to change your cell phone number.
  10. Click “Submit” to approve the number change.
  11. Wait for 14 days (two weeks) for SASSA to verify your new contact details and process payments accordingly.

Notice: Avoid frequent cell phone number changes. SASSA advises beneficiaries against multiple monthly changes, as this may affect monthly grant payments, causing delays in Sassa Reapplication approval and potential until verification is complete.

Report SASSA about Stolen Phone / SIM Card


If your cell phone is stolen or you lose your SIM card, which is registered to your SASSA application, you need to follow these steps to change contact details with SASSA without OTP.

  1. SASSA officials warn that if you have lost your cell phone number report this incident to SASSA immediately.
  2. To report your stolen registered cell phone number to SASSA click on this link: https://srd.sassa.gov.za/sc19/auth
  3. Enter your ID Number.
  4. By submitting your ID number you confirm that your cell phone number used for SASSA SRD R350 grant application was changed without your permission.
  5. Confirm your choice with Yes or No.
  6. If you agree, you will receive a notification stating ‘Successfully submitted unauthorized cell phone number change report to SASSA.’

Reminder for Beneficiaries

  • Log in to your SASSA account and check your SASSA status. If it displays ‘record not found,’ directly contact the SASSA helpline at 0800 601 011 to block your payments.
  • Proceed to the Change Phone Number process online to update your contact details.
  • Wait for 14 days (2 weeks) from the date of the requested change in your SASSA phone number to have your phone number successfully updated for your grant payments.

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.

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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.
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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.