The Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme Foundation NPC (ISFAP)presently has 8658[MM1] [MM2] bursary applicationsthat are currently in progress. This follows the opening of bursary applications for the 2025 academic year on 3 June 2024. This overwhelming response highlights the critical need for financial support among South African students pursuing higher education.
“We are pleased with the positive response in terms of the number of applications that we’ve received, and we encourage more eligible young people to submit an application to receive complete funding”, said Martin Mukwevho, Executive Programme Manager of ISFAP.
Since its inception in 2017, ISFAP has been dedicated to providing financial aid and comprehensive support to South African students from poor and middle-income households, contributing significantly to the nation’s skills development and economic growth. ISFAP was established to bridge the financial gap for students whose family incomes are too high to qualify for NSFAS funding, but too low to afford tertiary education independently (the “missing middle”).
The programme targets missing middle students with a household income of between R350 000 and R600 000 per annum and also accommodates unfunded students with a household income of between R0 and R600 000 per annum. ISFAP funds higher education in fields critical to South Africa’s economic development, including Actuarial Science, Engineering, Medicine and Nursing, Computer and Data Science, Chartered Accountancy, and other Occupations in High Demand (OHDs), as defined by the Human Resources Development Council (HRDC).
Since its launch following the #FeesMustFall movement, ISFAP has funded over 3500 students, covering tuition fees, accommodation, books, laptops, stipends, and psychosocial support, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience and success. The programme not only focuses on academic excellence but also provides mental health support, life skills training, and financial literacy programmes, helping students thrive in all aspects of university life.
Despite the significant impact that ISFAP has made over the years, the demand for bursaries remains high. The programme is predominantly funded by private sector contributions, along with support from government entities such as the Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs). ISFAP remains motivated in its effort to seek additional funding to expand its reach and support more students across South Africa’s universities.
“The financial landscape for many South African families is challenging, and tertiary education remains an unattainable dream for many. ISFAP aims to change this by offering comprehensive support to deserving students,” said Mukwevho. “The high number of applications received so far is a clear indication of the need for such funding. We encourage eligible students to apply and take advantage of this opportunity to advance their education and contribute to the country’s future,” he added.
Application Details
– Opening Date: 3 June 2024
– Closing Date: 31 October 2024
– Eligibility: South African citizens from households with an annual income between R0 and R600 000.
– Undergraduate: Applications are open to first-time university registrants as well as students who are already studying. Second, third, and final-year students enrolled in undergraduate degrees at ISFAP partner universities and in supported courses can also apply.
– Postgraduates: Applicants must be enrolled for Honours or Masters postgraduate studies at ISFAP partner universities and in supported courses.
Applicants are encouraged to apply online at applyonline.isfap.org.za. The online platform is designed to guide students through the application process, ensuring that all required documents are correctly submitted. Applicants should regularly check their emails for updates on their application status.
For more information about ISFAP, the application process, and eligibility criteria, please visit www.isfap.org.za.
DID YOU KNOW?
About ISFAP
The Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme Foundation NPC (ISFAP) is a non-profit organisation dedicated to funding and supporting the higher education of South Africa’s poor and middle-class students. Established in 2017, ISFAP partners with various universities and private sector entities to ensure that students in need can access and succeed in higher education, contributing to the nation’s economic development.
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