Have you heard about the Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme (ISFAP) Bursary? Well, you must have, and we know that is why you are here. The Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme (ISFAP) Bursary is a funding model designed for students from poor and ‘missing’ middle backgrounds. It was established with the aim to provide poor and middle-class South African learners equal opportunities for higher education. Sounds good, doesn’t it?
Hence, let us take a look into the ISFAP Bursary in detail. In this article, we will explore the ISFAP, which offers financial support for students to pursue their tertiary education dreams. We will also provide a detailed guide to the online application process and essential requirements. So, keep reading for more!
Table of Contents
What is the ISFAP Bursary?
Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme (ISFAP) Bursary is a financial support programme designed to support South African students from low-income backgrounds. In other words, it was established to help poor and ‘missing’ middle-income university learners who pursue specific fields of study, providing them with financial aid to afford university fees.
ISFAP Bursary receives funds from non-profit organisations, government institutions, private individuals, professional companies, and local and international donors. Its main goal is to help students achieve their goals and obtain their qualifications. Besides, it aims to enhance economic growth and develop an equal society by giving individuals opportunities to excel in fields including accounting, medicine, engineering and arts. Not to mention! ISFAP aims to do the following:
- Reduce learning dropout rates.
- Give learners better employment opportunities.
- Build a skilful and talented workforce.
Find out the key benefits of bursaries in South Africa.
Fields Covered by ISFAP Bursary
ISFAP is inviting students to apply for their bursary programme, for the 2025 academic year. Bursaries will be awarded for these selected qualifications at the following partner institutions.
- 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 bursary covers a range of expenses including tuition fees, accommodation, travel (if needed), books, meals, and a living allowance. Additionally, students will receive academic, social, and life skills support, as well as medical assistance when necessary, through their university.
Here is the list of expenses covered by ISFAP Bursary:
- Full university Fees
- Living allowance
- Tuition fees for academic development & extended programmes
- Accommodation
- Food
- Learning materials like calculators and textbooks
- Psycho-social support
- Social support
- Life skills training
- Mentorship opportunities
ISFAP Criteria for Selecting Bursary Recipients
Bursary recipients are chosen based on several key factors:
- A household means test is conducted for all applicants.
- Academic performance and acceptance into an approved institution for an eligible qualification are required.
- Some institutions may require a National Benchmark Test (NBT) to assess academic and behavioral capabilities.
- Matric results play a role in the selection process.
- The availability of funding, determined by the funding partner’s requirements, also influences the final decision.
ISFAP Bursary Online Application Process
Application must be submitted online at: ISFAP Bursary Application 2025
Applicants will be required to Register an account before they can Login and apply. Here are the steps you can follow to submit your application for the Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme (ISFAP) bursary:
- Step 1: Gather all the Necessary Documents: The first and most important step you must take, even before starting your application process, is to collect all the required documents. The essential documents include:
- Certified copy of ID document
- Copies of your academic transcripts and other records
- Proof of household income
- Proof of acceptance to the university
- Course quotation from the university
- Motivational letter
- Step 2: Visit the ISFAP Bursary Website: The next step is to visit the Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme (ISFAP) bursary’s website. If you don’t have an account on their website, you can create one by providing your personal details. By doing this, you will get access to their online application form.
- Step 3: Complete the Online Application Form: In this step, you must be careful and attentive since you are filling out the application form. You must give accurate and correct details as the selection committee selects you after reviewing this application form. You must provide the following details:
- Personal details
- Academic achievements
- Details about your course of study.
- Information regarding your financial situation.
- Step 4: Upload Supporting Documents: After filling out your application form, you can upload all the essential documents as required by the ISFAP bursary guidelines.
- Step 5: Complete the Consent Form: To get funding from the Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme (ISFAP) bursary, you will need to download and complete the consent form. After that, you must certify it by the Commissioner of Oaths.
- Step 6: Follow Up and Track the Status: After submitting the application, you will get an email confirmation notification from the ISFAP selection committee. Therefore, regularly check your email to ensure you do not miss out on your opportunity.
Eligibility Requirements For ISFAP Bursary
If you want to be eligible for the Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme (ISFAP) Bursary, you must meet certain requirements. Here, we have provided the key requirements one must fulfil to secure the ISFAP funding. They are as follows:
Proof of Income to Demonstrate Financial Need:
Since the Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme (ISFAP) bursary is applicable to poor and middle-class students, the applicants must prove that they come from a financially disadvantaged background. Therefore, they must meet the criteria given below:
- Household income shouldn’t be more than R600 000 per year.
- Didn’t receive any other funding for study from any other organisation or bursary provider.
- Highly in need of funding for education since the student has no other financial means.
Academic Records to Showcase Achievements:
The candidates must demonstrate specific academic performance, including minimum grade average points. That means the applicants must have a good academic record. Moreover, the applicant must be enroled or intend to enrol in an undergraduate or postgraduate programme at a recognised university in South Africa. Here are some of the requirements the learners must meet to get the ISFAP bursary:
- Matric certificate or Matric latest results
- Must start their first degree in 2025
- Got accepted to a university to study a specific programme specified in the ISFAP guidelines
Identity Documents to Prove Citizenship:
The Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme (ISFAP) bursary is applicable to learners from South Africa. Therefore, they must be:
- Citizens of South Africa, or
- Permanent residents of South Africa
Specific Field of Study:
Since the Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme (ISFAP) bursary is awarded to students from specific fields of study, the applicants must ensure that they are eligible before applying. The ISFAP bursary is targeted at fields like engineering, arts, medicine, science and accounting.
ISFAP Bursary Closing Date
ISFAP Bursary Closing Date: 31 October 2024 (at midnight).
The postgraduate and undergraduate application period for the Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme (ISFAP) Bursary typically opens every June and closes every October of a year. For 2024-2025, you can start applying for an ISFAP to pursue your undergraduate or postgraduate education from June 3rd. However, the candidates must submit their applications without any delay since this bursary provider will not consider late applications.
ISFAP Bursary Contact Detail
For any queries related to the ISFAP Bursary programme, please contact ISFAP directly:
- Tel: 010 880 0400
- Email: students@isfap.org.za
Conclusion
The Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme (ISFAP) bursary is a valuable opportunity for financially disadvantaged South African students to pursue higher education. By following the essential steps outlined for the application process and meeting the key requirements, the students can optimise their chances of securing financial support from the ISFAP bursary. Besides, our article has mentioned all the practical insights that applicants can employ during their application. However, they must always make sure to apply early without any inaccuracy in the information they provide.
Regenesys offers course quotations for aspiring students seeking bursaries in South Africa. Contact our career counsellors for detailed insights and guidance on applying for bursaries today!
ISFAP Bursary 2025 – FAQ’s
What is the ISFAP Bursary?
The Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme (ISFAP) Bursary is designed to support South African students from low-income backgrounds by providing financial aid for university fees.
Who is eligible for the ISFAP Bursary?
Students from poor and ‘missing’ middle-income backgrounds with a household income not exceeding R600,000 per year are eligible.
What expenses does the ISFAP Bursary cover?
The bursary covers full university fees, living allowance, tuition fees for academic development programs, accommodation, food, learning materials, psycho-social support, social support, life skills training, and mentorship opportunities.
Which fields of study are supported by the ISFAP Bursary?
The bursary supports specific fields of study, including engineering, arts, medicine, science, and accounting.
What are the academic requirements for the ISFAP Bursary?
Applicants must have a good academic record, possess a matric certificate or latest matric results, and be accepted to a university for a specified program.
Is the ISFAP Bursary available to non-South African citizens?
No, the bursary is only available to South African citizens or permanent residents.
When can I apply for the ISFAP Bursary for the 2024 academic year?
Applications open on June 3, 2024, and close on October 31, 2024, at midnight.
What documents are required for the ISFAP Bursary application?
Required documents include a certified copy of your ID, academic transcripts, proof of household income, proof of acceptance to a university, course quotation, and a motivational letter.
How do I apply for the ISFAP Bursary online?
Visit the ISFAP website, create an account or log in, complete the online application form, upload supporting documents, and complete the consent form certified by a Commissioner of Oaths.
What support does ISFAP provide beyond financial aid?
ISFAP provides academic support, social support, life skills training, and medical support through the university.
Can I apply for the ISFAP Bursary if I am already receiving funding from another organization?
No, applicants must not be receiving any other funding for their studies.
What is the purpose of the ISFAP Bursary?
The ISFAP Bursary aims to provide equal educational opportunities, reduce dropout rates, improve employment prospects, and build a skilled workforce.
Which universities are partnered with ISFAP for the bursary?
Partner institutions include 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, and University of Johannesburg.
How can I check the status of my ISFAP Bursary application?
After submitting your application, check your email regularly for confirmation notifications and follow-ups from the ISFAP selection committee.
Who can I contact for more information about the ISFAP Bursary?
For any queries, contact ISFAP directly at 010 880 0400 or email students@isfap.org.za.
