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Apply for the ISFAP Bursary Programme 2026 and get full financial and academic support for your studies at top South African universities. Covers tuition, accommodation, meals, books, and more.
Welcome to the ISFAP Bursary Application Programme 2026
Education is one of the most powerful tools for change — and the Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme (ISFAP) is here to ensure that financial challenges do not stand in the way of South Africa’s brightest minds.
The ISFAP Bursary Programme 2026 is designed to empower deserving students by providing comprehensive financial assistance and holistic support, helping them not only study but also succeed. Whether you are entering university for the first time or advancing your studies through a postgraduate degree, ISFAP ensures you have the resources and guidance needed to complete your academic journey with confidence.
This article provides a detailed, step-by-step guide to the ISFAP bursary, including eligibility requirements, partner universities, benefits, and application tips — helping you make your 2026 university dreams a reality.
About ISFAP: Investing in South Africa’s Future
The Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme (ISFAP) was established to address one of South Africa’s most pressing challenges — the growing number of students who fall into the “missing middle.”
These are students whose household income is too high to qualify for NSFAS but too low to afford university fees. ISFAP bridges this gap by offering full-cost bursaries that cover tuition and essential living expenses, while also providing wrap-around support such as mentoring, tutoring, and life skills training.
Through partnerships with donors, universities, and government bodies, ISFAP is creating a sustainable model of student funding that transforms individual lives and strengthens South Africa’s workforce.
What the ISFAP Bursary Covers
Unlike traditional bursaries that only pay for tuition, ISFAP takes a comprehensive approach to student success.
If you are awarded the bursary, ISFAP will cover:
Useful Links:
- Learnerships Programme 2025
- Online courses
- Funding Bursaries
- Internships Programme
- Youth Opportunities
| Expense | Description |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | Full coverage for all academic fees payable to your university. |
| Accommodation | Payment for approved on-campus or off-campus housing. |
| Meals | Monthly meal allowance or dining plan. |
| Books and Learning Materials | Allowance for prescribed textbooks and study resources. |
| Living Allowance (Stipend) | Monthly financial support to cover personal expenses. |
| Support Services | Access to mentoring, tutoring, counselling, and life skills training to ensure academic and personal success. |
This holistic support ensures that students are not only financially secure but also emotionally and academically prepared to thrive at university.
Key Criteria for 2026
Before starting your application, ensure you meet the eligibility requirements outlined below:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a South African citizen. |
| Household Income | Total annual household income must be between R0 and R600,000. |
| Academic Requirements | You must meet the specific admission and performance criteria of your chosen university and course. |
| University Acceptance | You must be accepted into a critical skills programme at one of ISFAP’s partner universities. |
| Level of Study | Open to undergraduate and postgraduate (honours or master’s) students. Note: Doctoral and PhD programmes are not funded. |
These criteria ensure that ISFAP supports students who demonstrate both academic potential and financial need.
Partner Universities for 2026
ISFAP partners with several leading universities across South Africa to ensure high-quality education and nationwide accessibility.
The bursary is available for selected qualifications at the following partner institutions:
- University of Pretoria (UP)
- University of Venda (UNIVEN)
- University of Cape Town (UCT)
- University of the Witwatersrand (WITS)
- Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
- Walter Sisulu University (WSU)
- University of the Free State (UFS)
Each institution offers a variety of critical skills programmes — fields identified as essential to South Africa’s economic growth, including Engineering, Health Sciences, Accounting, Education, and Information Technology.
To view specific courses, applicants are encouraged to visit the ISFAP website and explore the full list under the “Available Courses and Universities” section.
Application Process: Step-by-Step
Applying for the ISFAP Bursary Programme 2026 is straightforward, but attention to detail is crucial to ensure a successful submission.
Follow these steps carefully:
1. Check Eligibility
Before starting your application, make sure you meet all eligibility requirements related to academic performance, household income, and citizenship.
2. Get Accepted at a Partner University
You must first apply for and secure acceptance into a funded programme at one of ISFAP’s partner universities. Proof of acceptance will be required when submitting your bursary application.
3. Gather and Certify Documents
Collect all necessary documentation and ensure they are certified within three months of submission.
Required Documents:
- Certified copy of your South African ID.
- Certified copy of your latest academic results.
- Certified copy of your university acceptance letter.
- Proof of income for each household contributor.
- Certified copies of parent/guardian/household contributor IDs.
- Signed and certified consent form (available on the ISFAP website).
- Motivation letter explaining your goals and why you should receive the bursary.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) highlighting your achievements, leadership roles, and community involvement.
Certification Guidelines:
- Documents must be certified by an authorised official (Commissioner of Oaths, police officer, or school principal).
- Each page must include the certifier’s signature, date, and official stamp.
- Certified copies must be legible and dated within three months of application.
4. Submit Your Online Application
Complete your application on the official ISFAP online portal:
🔗 applyonline.isfap.org.za
Ensure that you upload all required documents before submitting. Applications without the correct supporting documentation will not be considered.
5. Application Review and Feedback
After submission, your application will be reviewed and added to the ISFAP database. Qualifying candidates will be matched to donor or ISFAP funding criteria.
Applicants will receive updates via email or the chatbot available on the ISFAP website. This feature allows you to conveniently track the progress of your application.
Important Tips for a Successful Application
To improve your chances of selection, keep the following tips in mind:
- Apply Early: Don’t wait until the deadline. Submitting early allows time to correct any errors or upload missing documents.
- Be Honest and Accurate: Ensure all details on your application form are true and verifiable.
- Write a Strong Motivation Letter: Highlight your passion for your field of study, your career goals, and how you plan to make a difference in your community.
- Stay Organised: Keep copies of all documents and emails related to your application.
- Follow Up: Use ISFAP’s chatbot or helpline to check your application status regularly.
How ISFAP Makes a Difference
The ISFAP model goes beyond financial aid — it’s a transformative educational ecosystem designed to nurture student success from start to finish.
1. Academic Support:
Students receive access to tutoring, study groups, and additional academic assistance to help them excel in their coursework.
2. Emotional and Social Support:
ISFAP recognises that student success depends on well-being. Counselling, peer mentorship, and life skills workshops help learners manage stress and build resilience.
3. Career Readiness:
Through partnerships with employers, ISFAP prepares students for life after graduation. Participants often benefit from career workshops, networking events, and job placement opportunities.
4. Community Impact:
By focusing on critical skills and inclusivity, ISFAP strengthens South Africa’s economy and contributes to the country’s long-term social development goals.
Contact Information
If you have questions or require assistance during the application process, ISFAP’s support team is available to help.
- Email: info@isfap.org.za
- Phone: 010 880 0400
- WhatsApp: 072 817 4072
The ISFAP team encourages applicants to reach out early with any questions and to avoid last-minute submissions.
Key Programme Highlights
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Bursary Name | ISFAP Bursary Programme 2026 |
| Application Mode | Online via applyonline.isfap.org.za |
| Eligibility | South African citizens, household income R0–R600,000 |
| Supported Study Levels | Undergraduate and Postgraduate (Honours/Master’s) |
| Partner Universities | UP, UCT, WITS, TUT, UNIVEN, WSU, UFS |
| Closing Date | To be confirmed (apply early) |
| Coverage | Tuition, accommodation, meals, books, living allowance, and student support services |
Why ISFAP Bursary Matters in 2026
As the cost of higher education continues to rise, many talented South Africans are unable to pursue their academic goals. The ISFAP Bursary addresses this challenge head-on by ensuring that deserving students — particularly those from working-class and lower-middle-income households — can access quality education without financial strain.
For the 2026 academic year, ISFAP continues to expand its reach, supporting more students and more institutions than ever before. Its focus on critical skills programmes ensures that graduates contribute to sectors essential for national development, including:
- Engineering and Manufacturing
- Healthcare and Medicine
- Financial Services
- Education and Teaching
- Information Technology
- Environmental and Agricultural Sciences
By focusing on these areas, ISFAP not only transforms individual lives but also helps build a skilled, future-ready workforce for South Africa.
Final Thoughts
The ISFAP Bursary Programme 2026 offers more than financial aid — it provides a complete pathway to success. With full funding, academic support, and personal mentorship, ISFAP empowers young South Africans to reach their potential and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your educational journey, now is the time to act.
Apply early, prepare your documents carefully, and take advantage of this life-changing opportunity.
Apply Online: https://applyonline.isfap.org.za
Your future begins with ISFAP — turning potential into achievement, and dreams into degrees.
