Ten years after the #FeesMustFall protests highlighted the issue of university affordability in South Africa, a significant gap remains for students from middle-income families. These students, dubbed the “missing middle,” do not qualify for traditional financial aid but are unable to afford the increasing costs of tertiary education. Despite the attention drawn to the issue a decade ago, these students continue to face substantial financial barriers preventing access to higher learning. Advocates are now demanding innovative solutions to address student funding and ensure equitable access to universities. The ongoing challenges demonstrate that the core problems of affordability identified during #FeesMustFall have not been fully resolved. The situation calls for renewed efforts to bridge the financial gap and support this vulnerable student population.