The Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme, generally known as ISFAP, funds missing-middle students in scarce-skill fields. Requirements centre on a household income band above the NSFAS threshold, study in a supported field, and strong academic results.
If you have searched for Ikusasa and ISFAP separately, they are the same programme. Ikusasa is the first word of its full name, and applications are made through ISFAP.
Eligibility Requirements at a Glance
The programme generally assesses the following.
- South African citizenship
- Household income within the band the programme targets
- Acceptance or application to a supported qualification at a partner institution
- Study in a scarce-skill field the programme funds
- Academic results meeting the standard for the intake
- Participation in the wraparound mentoring and tutoring programme
Income and Affordability Requirements
The programme is built around the missing middle: households earning above the NSFAS threshold but unable to fund university study. The band is set by the programme and revised over time.
Because this scheme publishes its criteria per intake and revises them, this page does not restate specific income thresholds, closing dates or award values. Confirm those directly with the funder, since an out-of-date figure is worse than none.
Credit and Financial Requirements
Bursaries do not assess your credit record and applying does not affect it. What they assess is academic performance, both to award funding and to continue it.
Continued funding depends on academic progress and on participation in the support programme. Confirm whether a specific award is a bursary or carries repayment terms before accepting it.
Documents and Verification Required
Applications normally require the following.
- A certified copy of your identity document
- Your matric results or latest academic transcript
- Proof of household income, such as payslips or an affidavit where there is no formal income
- Proof of acceptance or application to an approved institution
- A completed application form and any motivation the scheme requires
- Supporting documentation for a disability, where applicable
How to Apply and Improve Approval Readiness
Apply through ISFAP online during its application window, separately from your institution application.
Check the supported field list before applying. The programme funds specified scarce-skill qualifications rather than any degree, and applications outside those fields will not succeed regardless of your circumstances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ikusasa the same as ISFAP?
Yes. The Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme is generally known as ISFAP, and applications are made through ISFAP.
Who qualifies?
Missing-middle students whose household income is above the NSFAS threshold, studying in supported scarce-skill fields.
Does it fund any qualification?
No. It funds specified scarce-skill fields at partner institutions.
Do I have to repay?
It depends on the specific award and the funder behind it. Confirm the terms before accepting.
Confirm current criteria, supported fields and award terms with ISFAP directly. See bursary requirements, NSFAS requirements and browse all finance and funding requirements.