Many students in South Africa use the Fundi Card to receive and manage their bursary allowances.
It’s a useful card that helps with paying for things like meals, books, accommodation, and travel while you’re still in school. But what happens after graduation?
Can you still use your Fundi Card when you’re no longer a student?
The Fundi Card and It’s Uses
The Fundi Card is a prepaid smart card designed to help students access funds given by bursaries like NSFAS and other educational sponsors. It’s like a bank card, but it’s made just for students. Here’s how it works:
- Used for approved purchases: You can use the card to buy meals, textbooks, toiletries, pay for accommodation, transport, and other approved school-related expenses.
- Works only at approved vendors: Fundi partners with certain vendors such as campus cafeterias, shops, and transport companies.
- Reloaded monthly: Your sponsor loads funds into your card every month or according to their payment schedule.
- Secure wallet system: The Fundi Wallet is a digital wallet connected to your card. It keeps your money safe and tracks your spending.
Can You Use Your Fundi Card After You Graduate?
No, you cannot use your Fundi Card for long after graduation. The card is linked to your status as a student. Once you complete your studies and your institution updates your records, Fundi receives that update and begins the process of closing your access.
Here’s what usually happens:
- Your university or college sends your graduation status to Fundi.
- Fundi updates your profile and prepares to deactivate your card.
- Your card stops working at Fundi-approved stores shortly after that.
You can use the remaining balance on your card, but only before it is deactivated. Once Fundi closes your card, you can no longer make any purchases.
How Long Does the Fundi Card Stay Active After Graduation?
There is no fixed time for how long your card stays active. However, most students find that their Fundi Card works for a few weeks to a few months after graduation. This depends on how fast your school sends the update to Fundi.
You should:
- Check your card status regularly via the Fundi app or website.
- Use any remaining balance as soon as possible.
- Contact Fundi Support if you’re unsure about your card’s status.
What to Do with Remaining Funds in Your Fundi Card After Graduation
If you still have money in your Fundi Wallet after you graduate, don’t worry—you can still get it out. Fundi allows students to withdraw their balance, but you have to follow a few steps:
Steps to Withdraw Funds:
- Log in to your Fundi Wallet via the official website or mobile app.
- Check your available balance.
- Link your bank account to your Fundi profile.
- Submit a withdrawal request.
- Wait for approval and fund transfer to your bank account.
Things to Note:
- Make sure your bank account details are correct.
- Withdraw funds before your card is deactivated.
- It can take a few working days for the funds to reflect in your bank account.
Can You Access the Fundi Wallet After Graduation?
Yes, you can access your Fundi Wallet online even after graduation. As long as your account is still active and there is money left, you can:
- View your balance
- Download transaction history
- Make withdrawal requests
However, after some time, Fundi will fully close your account. So it’s best to handle everything as soon as you graduate.
Does the Fundi Card Work Outside Campus After Graduation?
No, the Fundi Card does not work outside of its approved vendors, and definitely not after deactivation. Once you are no longer a registered student:
- Your card will not work at Fundi-approved shops or services.
- You cannot receive new funds through your bursary or sponsor.
- Partnered services like transport and bookstores will also stop accepting your card.
That’s why it’s important to spend your funds or withdraw the balance while the card is still active.
What Happens If You Don’t Use Your Fundi Card Balance?
If you don’t use the money or withdraw it in time:
- You can lose access to the funds once your account is closed.
- In some cases, the money goes back to your bursary provider or remains in the system with no access.
- Always act quickly once you graduate.
Alternatives to the Fundi Card After Graduation
After you graduate, you’ll need a new way to manage your finances. The good news is, there are many options available.
Here are a few alternatives:
- Open a student or graduate bank account with low fees and easy access.
- Use mobile banking apps like Capitec, FNB eWallet, or TymeBank for simple money management.
- Consider online wallets like Ozow or PayFast if you do freelance work or get paid online.
Planning ahead helps you adjust easily from a student life supported by bursaries to managing your income independently.
How to Manage Your Finances After Graduation
- Create a budget: Know how much you spend and where your money goes.
- Start saving: Even small savings can add up.
- Avoid debt: Don’t take on loans or credit cards you can’t repay.
- Look for opportunities: Apply for internships, jobs, or learn new skills.
- Track your spending: Use budgeting apps or spreadsheets to stay on top of your money.
Conclusion
Can I Still Use My Fundi Card After I Graduate?
The short answer is no, you cannot use your Fundi Card for long after you graduate. The card is designed for active students, and it stops working once your status changes.
However, you can access any leftover balance in your Fundi Wallet and withdraw it if you act quickly. Make sure to check your card status, contact support if needed, and plan for financial independence as you move into life after school.
Graduation is a big step. With the right financial knowledge, you can go from using a Fundi Card to building your own financial future with confidence.