ISFAP Bursary Applications Now Open for 2027 - Apply Now

Applications for the ISFAP Bursary 2027 are now open for South African students who need funding for university. This bursary is aimed at students who fall into the “missing middle” — those who do not qualify for NSFAS but still cannot afford to pay for their studies.

ISFAP (Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme) focuses on helping students study towards qualifications that are in demand in South Africa, especially in fields like engineering, science, commerce, IT, education and health sciences.

What the ISFAP Bursary Covers

ISFAP is not partial funding. It is one of the more complete bursaries available.

If you are approved, the bursary can cover:

• Full tuition fees

• Accommodation

• Meals and living allowance

• Books and study materials

• Academic support and mentoring

In some cases, students also get access to support services like tutoring and wellness programmes to help them stay on track.

What Makes ISFAP Different From Other Bursaries

Most bursaries in South Africa either:

• Cover a specific field (like engineering or teaching), or

• Come with strict obligations like work-back contracts

ISFAP is a bit different.

It focuses more on access than anything else. The goal is simple: get capable students into university and keep them there until they graduate.

From what we’ve seen over the years, students funded by ISFAP don’t just get tuition paid. They get structured support — things like academic assistance, mentoring, and sometimes even help adjusting to university life.

That matters more than people think. Funding alone doesn’t always guarantee you’ll finish.

Undergraduate vs Postgraduate Funding

Let’s be clear about this.

ISFAP is mainly known for undergraduate bursary funding, especially for first-year students entering university. That’s where most of the support goes.

Postgraduate funding does exist, but it’s not as widely available and usually depends on:

• The field of study

• Partner institutions

• Available funding for that year

So if you’re applying for postgraduate studies, don’t assume it’s guaranteed. You need to check carefully whether your course is supported.

Who Should Actually Apply for ISFAP Bursary

This is where many people get it wrong.

ISFAP is not for everyone. It’s mainly for:

• Students from households earning up to around R600,000 per year

• Students who were not accepted by NSFAS

• Learners planning to study at public universities

If you already qualify for NSFAS, you’re not the target here.

If your household income is much higher, chances are you won’t qualify either.

But if you’re in that middle space where funding is always a problem, then this is one of the most realistic options available right now.

Documents Required to Apply:

• Certified copy of your South African ID

• Certified copies of parents’ or guardians’ ID documents

• Matric certificate or latest school results (if still in school)

• Full academic transcript (if already studying)

• Proof of university acceptance or registration

• Proof of household income (latest payslips)

• Affidavit if parent/guardian is unemployed

• Proof of SASSA grant or pension (if applicable)

• Signed ISFAP consent form

• Proof of residence (if requested)

• CV and motivation letter (mainly for postgraduate applicants)

You may also apply for: