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ISASA bursaries offer talented and deserving individuals an excellent opportunity to receive a high-quality education. ISASA, a diverse community of various educational experiences, religious affiliations, and cultural groupings, provides an environment where all young people in Southern Africa can access high-quality education.

ISASA is one of the leading and most established private school associations in Southern Africa. It offers a range of bursaries annually to deserving applicants who wish to advance their studies and become the best teachers for South Africa’s youth. Take a closer look at what ISASA has to offer if you believe you possess the necessary skills, a passion for teaching, and a love for kids.

Curious to learn more about the ISASA Bursaries? In this article, we will explore the ISASA Bursary, the application process, eligibility requirements, the closing date, and what ISASA has to offer applicants with a passion for teaching.

What is ISASA Bursary?

ISASA is a non-profit organisation and one of the largest and oldest associations in South Africa. ISASA – Independent Schools Association of Southern Africa was initially formed in the 1920s. ISASA seeks to address the lack of qualified mathematics and science teachers in South Africa. Established in 1929, ISASA schools have experience involving school-based training, mentoring, and the completion of a university degree by trainee teachers in member schools.

ISASA offers complete financial assistance for applicants willing to continue their studies at UNISA, either in a four-year Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) or a one-year Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE).

On successful completion of the graduation, applicants will be required to teach at the Public Schools in South Africa, and this period of employment will be equal to the duration of the bursary fund received. ISASA invites applicants to apply for the SAMSTIP – South African Mathematics and Science Teacher Intern Programme Bursary.

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What Does ISASA Bursary Cover?

Independent School Association bursary is available for applicants who are interested in continuing their higher education in the following domains:

  • Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.): This is a four-year field of study
  • Post Graduate Degree (PGCE): This is a one-year field of study.

These degrees are available in three main subjects:

  • English
  • Science
  • Mathematics.

Applicants pursuing their class 12 / Matriculation or FET (Further Education and Training) can apply for this Teaching Bursary.

Based on allowances or financial assistance, the ISASA Bursary will provide the following expenses:

  • Tuition Fees
  • Prescribed Textbooks and other Study materials,
  • Monthly allowances for accommodation and travelling expenses.

Along with these benefits, applicants will also receive:

  • Mentorship from qualified school teachers, academic enrichment programmes
  • Training at ISASA member schools provided teaching and learning resources and technology.

ISASA Bursary Eligibility Requirement

Every year, applicants are selected for the ISASA teaching bursary. If you are going to complete your Matric or grade 12 this year and have English with either Science or Mathematics as subjects, you could qualify for a bursary if you meet the requirements.

Here are some eligibility criteria. Applicants must satisfy the following minimum eligibility criteria before applying for the bursary.

  • Applicants must be South African citizens
  • Applicants must be under the age of 30 years old
  • University Graduates need to have English as a Major subject
  • University Graduates need to have Mathematics or Science as a Major
  • Tertiary applicants must have either Mathematics or Science as a Major
  • Applicants must have achieved a minimum aggregate mark of 60 per cent in their class 12 English
  • Applicants must have achieved a minimum aggregate mark of 60 per cent in their class 12 Science
  • Applicants must have achieved a minimum aggregate mark of 60 per cent in their class 12 Mathematics
  • Applicants must have passed their Matric or grade 12 with a minimum aggregated mark of 60 per cent
  • Applicants must intend to pursue a PGCE or B.Ed. with a specialisation in Mathematics and Science (Physical Science, Life Science or Natural Science)
  • Applicants must intend to pursue their higher studies at UNISA through open distance learning in the current academic year
  • Applicants willing to pursue B.Ed must be currently in Matric or have completed their Matric or grade 12
  • Applicants willing to pursue PGCE must have completed their undergraduate qualification
  • Applicants must have passed all the relevant school subjects, including Mathematics and Life Science or Physical Sciences or Natural Sciences (NOT Mathematical Literacy)
  • Applicants must be willing to be placed at a public school (Professional Development Host School) anywhere in South Africa.

*Note: Please satisfy all these eligibility requirements to ensure your application is considered.

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Do’s And Don’ts For ISASA Bursary Application

It is crucial to have a strong understanding of the Do’s and Don’ts when applying for a bursary online. However, the process is more manageable than it may seem. This list of Do’s and Don’ts can help applicants finish their bursary application more quickly and easily by easing the procedure.

Do’sDon’ts
Do proofread your applicationDon’t submit late
Do highlight your achievementsDon’t get discouraged
Do submit all the supporting documentsDon’t provide false information
Do seek feedback from teachers or mentorsDon’t neglect the financial section
Do submit the application form before the deadlineDon’t ignore supporting documents

Following these Do’s and Don’ts can help applicants create a strong, convincing bursary application that will stand out to reviewers.

What Is the ISASA Bursary Application Process?

Applicants applying for this ISASA Bursary 2026 must download the application form from the ISASA official website and complete the procedure.

Here is the complete step-by-step procedure for the ISASA bursary application process:

  • Step 1: Visit the ISASA official website.
  • Step 2: Check for the Bursary Application form,
  • Step 3: Click on the below-given download option
  • Step 4: Download the complete application form in PDF format.
  • Step 5: Once the download is complete, open the application form and read the instructions carefully before filling out the application.
  • Step 6: Carefully fill in the details in the application, including personal information, education qualification details and other information.
  • Step 7: Once you have completed the application form, review it carefully to see if all the information provided is accurate.
  • Step 8: Now, arrange all the supporting documents sequentially to avoid information mismatch or confusion. (A list of all the required documents is mentioned below in this article.)
  • Step 9: Submit the completed application form together with all supporting documents using one of the following methods:
  1. Hand delivery or postal submission to: ISASA, 16 St David Road, Houghton, Johannesburg
  2. Speed post to: ISASA, PO Box 87430, Houghton, 2041
  3. Email submission 
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ISASA Bursary Requirements – Documentation

There are some essential documents which need to be submitted along with the application form to verify your eligibility. Make sure to upload accurate documents to avoid disqualification.

Here are the essential supporting documents which applicants need to submit to secure their application for ISASA bursary 2026:

  • Applicant’s ID Card
  • Applicants’ Proof of Address
  • Applicant’s Passport or Birth Certificate
  • Complete Academic Records – From Class 1 to 12
  • Applicant’s Guardian or Parent’s Proof of Income
  • An affidavit confirming the applicant’s parents are unemployed (Only if the applicant’s parents are unemployed).
  • Applicants must also send a “Statement letter” or an “Introduction letter” explaining why they should be considered for a bursary.

*Note: All documentation must be certified

When Is the ISASA Bursary Closing Date?

Every year, this bursary closes by mid-July. However, applicants are advised to attempt to get their applications submitted to ISASA well in advance of the due date to avoid last-minute rejections or cancellations.

Before submitting the application form, applicants should ensure that all the required documentation is certified and accompanies the completed application form.

ISASA Bursary Contact Details

If you need clarification regarding the ISASA bursary 2026, you can contact ISASA directly. They can assist with queries related to the application process, eligibility requirements, required documentation and closing dates. Please note that you must contact ISASA only when the application window for the bursary programme is open.

So, ask all your queries directly by reaching out to ISASA through the following:

  • Tel: (011) 648-1331
  • Email ID: mathsenglish@isasa.org
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Conclusion

ISASA’s vision is to provide a quality education to all its learners. ISASA is the Independent Schools Association of South Africa. It offers prospective Foundation Phase, Intermediate, and FET teachers the opportunity to earn bursaries to continue their higher studies in either the B. Ed or PGCE degree at UNISA.

For more information related to bursaries, how to apply, and different education opportunities, visit Regenesys Education‘s Reginsights page now!

FAQs

What is ISASA?

ISASA is one of the largest and oldest independent school associations in the Southern African region. This bursary will support young individuals who desire to become teachers.

What is SAMSTIP?

SAMSTIP (South African Mathematics and Science Teacher Internship Programme) is an ISASA initiative that supports students who wish to pursue teaching careers, particularly in mathematics and science.

How can I apply for the ISASA Bursaries?

Applicants can download the application from the official website, fill it and submit it either by sending it through Email or can be hand-delivered to the given postal address.

Who is eligible to apply for the ISASA Bursary?

This bursary is mainly for those applicants who desire to continue their higher studies in teaching and learning domains.

What expenses do the ISASA Bursaries cover?

This bursary will cover all education expenses, including tuition fees, textbooks, other study materials, and food, transport, and accommodation allowances.

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