Access to higher education in South Africa remains a significant challenge for many students due to financial constraints. The Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme (ISFAP) was introduced as an innovative funding solution to address this gap by supporting students who fall outside traditional funding models.
By targeting learners from low-income and “missing middle” households, ISFAP plays a critical role in improving access, retention, and success in tertiary education.
This article offers a detailed breakdown of the ISFAP Bursary, including its objectives, benefits, eligibility criteria, and funding coverage. It also provides a step-by-step guide to the online application process and outlines the key documents required to apply successfully.
Table of Contents
What Is the ISFAP Bursary?
The Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme (ISFAP) Bursary is a financial aid scheme for university students. It supports those studying in selected priority fields. The programme is aimed at academically strong students who cannot afford university costs.
ISFAP is funded by government bodies, non-profit organisations, private companies, and professional firms. It includes donors from South Africa and abroad.
The programme does more than provide financial support. Students have access to tutoring and mentorship that allows them to seek help and excel in their studies. They can also join workshops to build workplace-relevant skills.
The ISFAP bursary works to reduce student dropout rates and improve graduate employability. Additionally, it helps develop skilled professionals who can contribute to South Africa’s economic and social development.
Read more about the Benefits of Bursaries in South Africa | Impacts and Growth Scope here
Fields Covered by ISFAP Bursary
ISFAP is inviting students to apply for their bursary programme for the 2027 academic year. Bursaries are awarded to eligible students enrolled in select programmes at partner public universities.
The programmes covered by this bursary are deemed national priorities and important for economic development. The study fields covered by the ISFAP bursary are:
- Engineering
- Health Sciences
- Science
- Agriculture
- Commerce
- Information Technology
- Education
- Law
- Social Sciences
Universities Covered by the ISFAP Bursary
The ISFAP bursary is awarded to students enrolled at select accredited universities in South Africa. It is important for students to maintain high academic standards while studying.
Students must be enrolled in one of the following universities to be eligible for ISFAP funding:
- Central University of Technology
- Nelson Mandela University
- University of Venda
- Stellenbosch University
- University of the Witwatersrand
- University of Pretoria
- Walter Sisulu University
- University of Cape Town
- Tshwane University of Technology
- University of Johannesburg
Download the ISFAP Bursary Partner Institutions Complete PDF list
Expenses Covered by ISFAP Bursary Programme
The ISFAP bursary provides financial assistance to help students manage the main costs of studying at university. The support is designed to reduce financial pressure and allow students to focus on their academic progress.
Listed below are the expenses covered by the ISFAP Bursary:
- Full university Fees
- Living allowance
- Meal allowance
- Spending allowance
- Academic additions, such as tutorials or extended programmes
- Medical support
- Social support
- Life skills training
- Mentors
Read more on Types of Bursaries Every Student Must Know! Here
Documents Required for the ISFAP Bursary 2027
Students are required to submit certified documents with their application form to be considered. These help the bursary committee verify application details and evaluate a candidate.
Applicants must ensure that all the required documents are certified within the last 3 months to be considered. The following documents are required to apply for the ISFAP bursary:
- Certified copy of the applicant’s ID document
- Certified copy of Grade 11 final results and latest Matric results (if currently in Matric)
- Certified copy of the Matric certificate or final results (if Matric has been completed)
- Completed ISFAP Funding Application Consent Form (.pdf), signed by the applicant and household contributors
- Certified proof of household income (recent payslips if employed, affidavit if unemployed, or proof of grants or pension where applicable)
- Certified copies of ID documents for parents, guardians, and all household contributors
ISFAP Bursary Criteria
The Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme (ISFAP) follows a structured and transparent selection process. Additionally, all applicants are required to complete a Means Test, which helps to determine financial eligibility.
Final selection is based on a combination of academic performance, financial need, and goals.
Listed below is the eligibility criteria for the ISFAP bursary:
- South African citizen or permanent resident
- Enrolled or planning to enrol in an accredited South African university in 2027
- Pursuing a degree in an Occupation of High Demand (OHD)
- Demonstrate financial need through means testing
- Maintain academic performance standards throughout the programme
- Demonstrate a commitment to completing your studies
Read more on Scholarships and Bursaries – A Clear Difference here
How to Apply to the ISFAP Bursary?
Students who wish to apply for the ISFAP bursary must follow a structured online process. Each step should be completed carefully to avoid delays or application rejection.
Preparing in advance can make the process smoother and help students complete the application without difficulty. Students can follow the steps listed below to apply for the ISFAP bursary:
1. Check eligibility
Interested students can visit the ISFAP website to confirm requirements. Only students who meet the criteria should apply for the bursary.
2. Gather required documents
Before beginning the application process, students should gather all the required documents. It is important that they are certified within the last 3 months from the date of submission.
3. Complete the bursary form
Students can complete the form online on the official application portal. This is the only official channel to submit documents for the ISFAP bursary.
4. Monitor your application status
It is important to regularly check the status of your application on the official portal. This helps students stay up to date and respond quickly if further information is required.
ISFAP Bursary Closing Date
The ISFAP bursary is now accepting applications through the official website. The last date to submit the application is 31 October 2026. Students are encouraged to apply at the earliest to be considered for the 2027 academic year.
Applications that are received after the deadline will not be considered for 2027. To keep track of the bursary application, students can create a checklist to complete it in steps.
Any application submitted after midnight will be considered for the 2028 academic year.
ISFAP Bursary Contact Detail
Students who require assistance with the application process or have questions about the bursary can contact ISFAP directly. The organisation provides multiple communication channels to help applicants receive guidance and information.
- Telephone: 010-880-0400
- Email: info@isfap.org.za
- WhatsApp: 072-617-8072
Conclusion
The Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme (ISFAP) helps improve access to higher education in South Africa. It supports students from low-income and “missing middle” households who may not qualify for other funding options.
The bursary provides full coverage and additional support to guide students and help them excel. These include mentoring, tutoring, and life-skills training. For eligible students, the ISFAP bursary can reduce financial pressure during university studies.
For more information related to bursaries and education opportunities, visit Reginsights on the Regenesys Education website.
FAQs
What is the ISFAP bursary?
The ISFAP bursary is a financial aid programme for university students in South Africa. It supports students from low-income and “missing middle” households.
Who can apply for the ISFAP bursary?
South African citizens or permanent residents can apply. Applicants must also show financial need and plan to study an approved programme at a partner university.
What expenses does the ISFAP bursary cover?
This is a full-coverage bursary that covers all the costs related to the programme. This also includes living, meal, and spending allowances.
Which study fields are supported by the ISFAP scholarship?
The bursary supports programmes in fields of national priority. These include engineering, health sciences, science, agriculture, commerce, information technology, education, law, and social sciences.
What is the closing date for the ISFAP bursary application?
The last date to submit the ISFAP funding application is 31 October 2026. Applications received after this date will be considered for the 2028 academic year.
