Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme
ISFAP Bursary
Closes
31 October 2026
Value
Full tuition, residence, stipend
Level
Undergraduate
For
SA citizens (Missing middle)
Sector
Occupations of High Demand
About this bursary
The Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme provides comprehensive financial funding for South African undergraduate students enrolled in high-demand fields. This bursary targets missing middle households whose annual income places them above NSFAS limits but below private university affordability thresholds.
ISFAP collaborates with accredited public universities across South Africa to address national skills shortages. The programme funds qualifications in engineering, medical sciences, commerce, humanities, technology, and education to build critical workforce capacity.
Recipients receive non-financial wraparound support alongside direct financial assistance. This includes academic mentoring, life skills training, medical aid, personal development workshops, and mental health support services throughout their studies.
Courses of study covered
What the bursary covers
Who can apply
You qualify if
- Applicants must be South African citizens.
- You must qualify as a missing middle student with household annual income between R350 000 and R600 000.
- You need to be accepted or enrolled at a recognized partner university in an eligible high-demand qualification.
- Academic performance must meet the admission criteria of your chosen tertiary institution.
- Applicants must demonstrate financial need based on family income verification.
You do not qualify if
- Postgraduate students are not eligible for funding.
- Students registered at non-partner private institutions cannot apply.
- Applicants with total household income below R350 000 or above R600 000 do not qualify for this specific scheme.
- Students studying fields outside the approved high-demand course list will not be considered.
Documents you need to submit
- Certified copy of South African identity document
- Certified copy of matric certificate or latest academic results
- Proof of household income for parents or legal guardians
- Completed and signed ISFAP consent form
- University acceptance letter or proof of university registration
All documents must be clear, certified, and recently dated.
How to apply
- 1Visit the official ISFAP online application portal.
- 2Register a user account with a valid email address and password.
- 3Download and complete the mandatory applicant consent form.
- 4Fill in all required biographical and household income details on the portal.
- 5Upload clear copies of required supporting documents and the signed consent form.
- 6Submit your completed online application before the official closing date.
Ensure all parent or guardian consent signatures are attached prior to submission.