GEICO DriveEasy Review: How does it work?

Once you enroll in the DriveEasy program, all you have to do is download and install the GEICO DriveEasy mobile app and enable the app in your phone’s settings. This would allow the app to automatically detect when you are driving. After you install the app, DriveEasy can begin tracking your driving right away.

The DriveEasy mobile app runs in the background of your phone. It’s only available on smartphones (iPhones on iOS 10 or higher, Androids on Marshmallow 6.0 or higher). While running in the background, DriveEasy doesn’t limit your phone’s usage. If you want to enroll in DriveEasy, all active drivers on your GEICO auto insurance policy must participate and have the DriveEasy app downloaded to their mobile device.

For example, you’ll still be able to use your phone to make calls and use your GPS. DriveEasy automatically determines when you’re driving a car by using your phone’s sensors, movement and GPS. It can distinguish when you’re the passenger and when you’re the driver and it doesn’t require you to open the app before you start driving.

This mobile app offers a personalized experience — the better you drive, the better your driving score will be. Your driving score will affect the cost of your insurance rates.

If the DriveEasy app incorrectly assigns your driver status on a trip for example, if it thinks you’re the driver when you’re actually the passenger you can fix this in the app. Be aware that if you’re the driver and your passenger uses your phone while you’re driving, this will count against you as distracted driving.

DriveEasy doesn’t require you to have Wi-Fi turned on, but it’s recommended for accuracy and to save your cellular data. Typically, a driver uses 60-70MB of cellular data per month for DriveEasy. The app tries to avoid using your data as much as possible by uploading your driving data after a trip via Wi-Fi when available.

Additionally, it conserves your cellular data and battery by going to sleep when you’re not driving. It also waits until after the first quarter mile of a trip to start tracking your driving to ensure you’re actually on a trip.

In terms of privacy, GEICO collects your data via DriveEasy to measure your driving habits and give you a score. GEICO says that your information is kept in the United States and stored on a secure data server. GEICO says it can’t read your messages or see who you’re calling. GEICO stresses that it’s committed to protecting your privacy. You can read more about privacy by visiting GEICO’s DriveEasy page.

What states offer the DriveEasy program?

The GEICO DriveEasy program is available in Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Kentucky, Maryland, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia, and Wisconsin.

GEICO’s website says that the DriveEasy discount is not available in all states and that the discount amount can vary by state. GEICO is planning on expanding the program to more states in the near future. Check the DriveEasy website for the most updated list.

Is DriveEasy worth it?

DriveEasy from GEICO may be a great way to become a better driver. The app’s technology is able to determine areas of improvement to your driving and offer you tips to become a safer driver. It’s a great way for you to work towards becoming a better driver and for parents to encourage safer driving among their children by competing with your driving scores. DriveEasy allows you to see a ranking of the drivers in your family by your score.

Share your experience with DriveEasy in our community by writing a GEICO review.. You can also check out GEICO reviews on Clearsurance’s website and hear what customers are saying about Geico’s coverage.


Image source: Velimir Zeland/ shutterstock.com

The content on this site is offered only as a public service to the web community and does not constitute solicitation or provision of legal advice. This site should not be used as a substitute for obtaining legal advice from an insurance company or an attorney licensed or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. You should always consult a suitably qualified attorney regarding any specific legal problem or matter. The comments and opinions expressed on this site are of the individual author and may not reflect the opinions of the insurance company or any individual attorney.

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Complete Guide to NSFAS Online Loan Application for South African Students (2025)

If you are a South African student looking to pursue higher education but are facing financial difficulties, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is one of the most accessible funding options available. NSFAS provides financial aid in the form of bursaries and loans to qualifying students at public universities and TVET colleges in South Africa.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the NSFAS loan application process, from eligibility requirements to application steps and frequently asked questions.


📌 What is NSFAS?

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government-funded financial aid scheme aimed at helping students from low- and middle-income households to access tertiary education without the burden of upfront fees.

NSFAS offers both bursaries and income-contingent loans:

  • Bursaries: For eligible students who meet academic and household income criteria (especially for TVET and university students).
  • Loans: For students who do not meet all bursary criteria or who are pursuing postgraduate qualifications not funded under bursary schemes.

✅ Who Qualifies for an NSFAS Loan?

To qualify for an NSFAS loan (especially for postgraduate students or programs not funded under the bursary system), you must:

  • Be a South African citizen.
  • Be financially needy, with a household income of less than R350,000 per year.
  • Have a valid South African ID.
  • Be enrolled or accepted to study at a public university or TVET college.
  • Not be funded through another bursary program that covers all expenses.
  • Maintain satisfactory academic progress (returning students).

📚 Courses Funded by NSFAS

NSFAS primarily funds undergraduate qualifications, but certain postgraduate programs (e.g., PGCE, postgraduate diplomas in education, and professional courses like LLB) may be considered under the NSFAS loan scheme, not bursaries.

If you’re studying:

  • Undergraduate degree or diploma: You are likely eligible for a full NSFAS bursary.
  • Postgraduate study: You may qualify for a loan, depending on the course and funding availability.

📄 Required Documents for NSFAS Application

When applying, make sure you have the following documents scanned and ready:

  1. Certified copy of your South African ID or Smart Card.
  2. Parent(s) or guardian(s) ID documents.
  3. Proof of income (latest payslips, UIF, or affidavit if unemployed).
  4. Consent Form signed by your parent(s)/guardian(s) to allow NSFAS to verify income.
  5. Proof of registration or acceptance at a public institution.
  6. Academic transcripts (for continuing or postgraduate students).

🖥️ How to Apply for an NSFAS Loan Online

Step-by-Step NSFAS Online Application Process (2025)

  1. Visit the NSFAS Website

    Go to: https://www.nsfas.org.za

  2. Create an Account

    • Click on “MyNSFAS” and register your profile.
    • You’ll need a valid email address and South African cellphone number.
    • Choose a strong password and verify your account via email or SMS.
  3. Login and Start the Application

    • After registration, log in to your MyNSFAS account.
    • Click on “Apply” to begin a new application.
  4. Fill in Your Personal Details

    • Input your ID number, name, surname, and other details exactly as they appear on your ID.
    • Provide household income information and living arrangements.
  5. Upload Required Documents

    • Upload all supporting documents in PDF or JPEG format.
    • Each document must be clear and under the size limit specified.
  6. Submit Your Application

    • Review your application for accuracy.
    • Click “Submit” and wait for a confirmation message.
  7. Track Your Application

    • Log in regularly to check your application status.
    • You will be notified via SMS and email at each stage of the process.

🗓️ Important NSFAS Dates (2025)

  • Application Opening Date: September 1, 2025
  • Application Deadline: January 31, 2026
  • Appeals Period: February 2026 (if rejected)
  • Disbursement: After registration and approval

Note: Dates are subject to change; always confirm on the official NSFAS website.


💸 What Does the NSFAS Loan Cover?

NSFAS funding typically includes:

  • Tuition fees
  • Registration fees
  • Accommodation (if living away from home)
  • Meals and transport
  • Learning materials (e.g., textbooks)

For loans, repayment is only required once you start working and earn above a threshold (around R30,000 annually, but subject to change).


🔄 NSFAS Loan Repayment

Repayments are:

  • Income-contingent – you only repay when you can afford to.
  • Administered by DHET (Department of Higher Education and Training).
  • Interest-bearing, but interest rates are low and favorable.

You can also apply for a partial loan conversion to a bursary if you perform well academically.


🔁 How to Appeal a Rejected NSFAS Application

If your application is rejected, you may submit an appeal via your MyNSFAS portal:

  1. Log into your MyNSFAS account.
  2. Click on “Track Funding Progress”.
  3. If rejected, click on “Submit Appeal”.
  4. Upload any missing or corrected documents.
  5. Provide a clear explanation or motivation.

📱 NSFAS Contact Information


📝 Final Tips Before Applying

  • Apply early to avoid system overload near the deadline.
  • Use your own email and cellphone number (do not use someone else’s).
  • Double-check that all your documents are certified and legible.
  • Keep a copy of your submission confirmation for reference.

By following this guide, you can confidently apply for NSFAS funding and move one step closer to achieving your academic and career dreams—without the burden of immediate financial pressure.