Managing finances as a student can be overwhelming, but with a Fundi Card, you get a simpler way to access and manage your funds.
Below, we answer 10 frequently asked questions about the Fundi Card to help you understand how it works and how to make the most of it.
Table of Contents
1. What is a Fundi Card?
The Fundi Card is a cashless payment solution designed to make life easier for students. Unlike a regular debit card, it contains multiple “pockets,” each allocated for specific expenses like food, accommodation, textbooks, and tuition fees. This structure ensures that your bursary funds are used responsibly for their intended purposes. With the Fundi Card, you won’t have to worry about accidentally spending your textbook allowance on entertainment, as each pocket is limited to a specific category.
The card is accepted across a wide range of partnered merchants, including supermarkets like Shoprite and Checkers, ensuring you can conveniently access what you need both on and off-campus.
2. How Can I Get My Fundi Card?
To get your Fundi Card, visit a Fundi on-campus office near you. The process is straightforward: bring your ID or passport, which will be verified by a Fundi representative. Once verified, you’ll be guided through the activation process, including setting up a PIN.
The representative will swipe your card on the terminal, input your student or ID number, and prompt you to create a PIN, which you will need to confirm. After registration, your card is ready to use. You can find the nearest Fundi office by visiting their website and checking the “Branches” page for office locations.
3. Why are My Funds Not Available on My Fundi Card?
If your funds are not reflecting on your Fundi Card, it could be due to delays or errors on the institution’s side. Fundi does not control the disbursement; funds are loaded only upon instruction from your bursar or institution.
The first step is to visit your campus’s financial aid office or contact your bursar to confirm whether they have processed your allocation. Occasionally, funds may take a few days to appear, especially during peak disbursement periods at the beginning of a term.
4. Can I Transfer Funds Between Pockets?
No, the funds in each pocket are strictly allocated for specific uses. For example, your accommodation allowance can only be spent on housing-related expenses (i.e. rent), and your book allowance is limited to educational materials. This setup ensures that students remain financially disciplined throughout the academic year.
However, if you need to reallocate funds between pockets, this can only be done by request through your sponsor, bursar, or institution. Fundi representatives are not authorised to adjust pocket allocations without the institution’s approval.
5. How Can I Access My Cash or Transport Allowance?
Cash allowances, such as those for transport, are not loaded directly onto the Fundi Card but are transferred via EFT to your personal bank account. To access these allowances, log into the Fundi Card portal and upload your banking details.
Make sure your banking details are up to date to avoid any delays in receiving your allowance. Once the details are verified, funds will be transferred directly to your account at the allocated intervals.
6. How Do I Block my Fundi Card If It’s Lost or Stolen?
If you misplace your Fundi Card or suspect fraudulent activity, it’s essential to block the card immediately to prevent unauthorised use. You can block your card through the Fundi Card portal or by calling the Fundi call centre at 0860 44 33 44. Alternatively, visit a Fundi campus office for assistance.
Blocking the card promptly ensures your funds remain safe until you are issued a replacement card. If you later find the lost card, you can unlock it via the same portal or by contacting customer service.
7. How Do I Change my Registered Cellphone Number?
If you need to update your contact information, such as your cell phone number, you’ll have to send an email (from your institution email address) to FundiCard@fundi.co.za. Make sure to include:
- A copy of your ID and student card
- Your old cell phone number
- Your new cell phone number
The change will be processed, ensuring you continue receiving important notifications related to your Fundi Card account.
8. Where Can I Use My Fundi Card?
The Fundi Card is accepted at over 2,500 retail partners across South Africa. Popular stores include Shoprite, Checkers, and selected outlets. You can also use the card at fast-food chains such as Nando’s (at Campus Square). Additionally, the card works at campus stores, including bookshops and merchants that cater specifically to student needs.
Look out for Fundi posters on campus to identify participating merchants. This network makes it easier for students to buy groceries, stationery, and other essentials without carrying cash.
9. How Do I Make Payments Using USSD?
If you need to pay your accommodation or other merchants via USSD, dial *134*87646# or *120*3385#. The USSD service allows you to make payments without needing airtime or data. Follow these steps:
- Select “Pay Merchant” from the menu.
- Enter the 7-digit code provided by your accommodation merchant.
- Input your card number and PIN.
- Enter the payment amount (e.g., 2200.00).
- Confirm the payment details by selecting 1 to continue or 2 to cancel.
After successful payment, you’ll receive a reference number that you can provide to the merchant for confirmation.
10. How Can I Check My Balance or Get a PIN Reminder?
Keeping track of your balance is easy with the Fundi Card. You can check your balance online by logging into the Fundi portal. Alternatively, dial *134*87646# from your phone and follow the prompts to see your remaining balance.
If you forget your PIN, you can retrieve it by calling the Fundi call centre or visiting a campus office. You can also use the USSD service to request a PIN reminder, ensuring uninterrupted access to your funds.
Fund Your Educational Journey with Fundi
Now that you’ve got the lowdown on what a Fundi Card is and the awesome features it has, you might be thinking about securing a student loan from Fundi in 2025. That’s fantastic news!
To check if you meet the requirements for a Fundi loan, you can give the Fundi Loan Calculator a spin. It’s a handy tool to help you get started on your path to educational success!
If you want to learn more about Fundi and all it has to offer, be sure to visit the Fundi website today. You can also contact Fundi on 086 055 5544 or email support@fundi.co.za.
