ISFAP Bursary Programme Opens Applications for 2027
The Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme has opened applications for the ISFAP Bursary Programme 2027, offering financial support to students who fall into South Africa’s “missing middle”.
The programme helps students whose household income is too high to qualify for National Student Financial Aid Scheme but still too low to afford university education.
The bursary supports undergraduate studies at selected public universities and focuses on qualifications linked to high-demand careers.
Applications close on 31 October 2026.
Bursary Overview
- Bursary: ISFAP Bursary Programme 2027
- Organisation: Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme
- Application Deadline: 31 October 2026
- Funding Type: Undergraduate bursary support
- Target Group: “Missing middle” South African students
The programme provides funding to help students complete qualifications that support critical skills needed in South Africa’s economy.
What the ISFAP Bursary Covers
The bursary may cover several study-related expenses depending on the student’s funding package.
Covered costs may include:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Books and study materials
- Travel costs where applicable
- Living allowance or stipend
- Academic and social support programmes
This comprehensive support structure helps students remain financially stable while completing their studies.
Who Can Apply
Applicants must generally meet the following requirements.
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must be currently in Matric or have completed Matric
- Must be accepted to study at an approved public university
- Must be entering first year of undergraduate study in 2027
- Household income must not exceed R600 000 per year
- Must demonstrate financial need
The programme specifically supports students from households that fall into the missing middle income category.
Universities Supported by the Programme
The bursary applies to selected programmes offered by several South African public universities.
Participating institutions include:
- University of Pretoria
- University of Cape Town
- University of the Witwatersrand
- University of Johannesburg
- University of KwaZulu-Natal
- University of the Free State
- University of Limpopo
- University of Venda
- North-West University
- University of the Western Cape
- Rhodes University
- University of Fort Hare
- University of Zululand
- University of Mpumalanga
- Sol Plaatje University
- University of South Africa
- Stellenbosch University
- Nelson Mandela University
Several universities of technology are also included:
- Tshwane University of Technology
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology
- Durban University of Technology
- Mangosuthu University of Technology
- Central University of Technology
- Vaal University of Technology
- Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
Fields of Study Supported
The bursary prioritises programmes linked to occupations in high demand.
Common fields include:
- Engineering
- Health Sciences
- Science
- Agriculture
- Commerce
- Information Technology
- Education
- Law
- Social Sciences
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants typically need to upload certified copies of the following documents.
- South African ID document
- Grade 11 final results and latest Matric results (if currently in Matric)
- Matric certificate (if already completed)
- ISFAP Funding Application Consent Form
- Proof of household income
- ID documents of parents, guardians and household contributors
All documents must be clear and properly certified.
How to Apply
Applications must be completed online through the official ISFAP application portal.
Application process:
- Register an account on the ISFAP website
- Log in to the application portal
- Complete the online application form
- Upload all required supporting documents
- Submit the application before the deadline
Application link: https://applyonline.isfap.org.za
Important Notes
The ISFAP bursary does not replace NSFAS funding. Instead, it supports students who do not qualify for NSFAS but still require financial assistance.
The programme focuses on:
- Scarce skills qualifications
- Financially needy students
- Improving access to higher education
Applicants should ensure all documents are clear, certified and uploaded correctly before submitting their application.
Application Deadline
Closing date: 31 October 2026
Students are encouraged to apply well before the deadline to avoid missing this funding opportunity.
