Isfap Bursary Introduction
The Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme (ISFAP) is an impactful bursary program in South Africa that provides financial support and opens doors of opportunity for thousands of disadvantaged students every year. With limited funding and strict eligibility criteria focused on merit, ISFAP assists hardworking and ambitious students from low-income families to access quality higher education and build a better future for themselves and their communities.
Overview Of The ISFAP Bursary
ISFAP is a public-private partnership between the Department of Higher Education and Training and several prominent companies and organizations. It was established in 2017 to help academically deserving students in the “missing middle” income bracket who cannot afford tertiary education but do not qualify for government assistance.
The bursary program provides comprehensive support covering tuition fees, accommodation, meals, books, and a monthly stipend. Funding is prioritized for students pursuing qualifications in areas of high national demand like engineering, health sciences, and accounting. In addition to financial assistance, ISFAP offers academic support, life skills development, career guidance, and medical aid to beneficiaries.
How To Apply Isfap Bursary
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Confirm that you meet the eligibility criteria for ISFAP, including being a South African citizen in matric or completed matric, accepted to study at a partner university, and meeting the household income threshold.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Obtain certified copies of your latest matric results, ID document, parents’/guardians’ ID documents, proof of household income, and other required paperwork.
Step 3: Access the Online Application
Go to the ISFAP website (isfap.org.za) and find the online application form. Create an account if you don’t already have one.
Step 4: Complete the Application Form
Provide your personal details, contact information, academic history, university and course details, household income information and all other required fields accurately.
Step 5: Upload Supporting Documents
Upload clear, certified copies of all the required supporting documents. Make sure scans or photos are legible.
Step 6: Submit Application Before Deadline
Review your application, then submit it before the closing date. You should receive an acknowledgement of successful submission.
Step 7: Check Application Status
Log in to your ISFAP account to track and monitor your application status. Respond promptly if more information is needed.
Step 8: Accept Offer
If you receive a provisional bursary offer letter, accept it by the given deadline and complete any stipulated conditions.
FAQs
Q1. Who is eligible to apply?
To be eligible, you must be a South African citizen in Grade 12 or completed Grade 12, accepted to study at an accredited public university, meet the household income threshold, and satisfy academic performance requirements.
Q2. What documents do I need?
Typical documents include your ID, parent/guardian IDs, matric results, proof of household income, university acceptance letter, and any other specified documents. All copies must be certified.
Q3. What is the application deadline?
The closing date is announced annually, but is typically in October for study in the following year. Late applications are not accepted, so apply before the published deadline.
Q4. How do I submit the application?
Applications must be completed and submitted online through the ISFAP website. Hard copy or emailed applications are not accepted.
Conclusion
ISFAP bursary program has been a game-changer for enabling academically gifted students from disadvantaged backgrounds to access quality higher education opportunities. For thousands of ISFAP recipients, this bursary has been a passport to a brighter future for themselves, their families, and their communities. With continued expansion and development, ISFAP aims to open doors for many more deserving students to achieve their full potential and make their mark in building a better South Africa.