ISFAP Bursary 2027 for missing middle students in South Africa, closing 31 October 2026

Does your family earn too much to qualify for NSFAS, but not enough to pay for university? You may fall into the “missing middle”, and that is exactly who the Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme (ISFAP) is designed for. ISFAP has opened applications for its 2027 bursary, which can cover tuition, accommodation, study materials and more for students at approved South African public universities. Applications close on 31 October 2026.

Bursary at a Glance

Funder: Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme (ISFAP)
For: South African students from “missing middle” households
Household income: Generally up to R600,000 per year (thresholds can differ by funding category)
Study level: Undergraduate studies at approved public universities
Academic year: 2027
Application: Online
Closing date: 31 October 2026

What Is the “Missing Middle”?

NSFAS mainly funds students from households earning R350,000 a year or less. Many families earn more than that, yet still can’t afford university fees and living costs. These students are often called the “missing middle”. ISFAP was set up to close that gap, using funding from partners to support capable students in fields where South Africa needs more skilled graduates.

Note: ISFAP is not a replacement for NSFAS. If your household earns under the NSFAS threshold, you should also apply to NSFAS.

Benefits

ISFAP offers a comprehensive funding package. Depending on your package, it can cover:

Tuition fees
Accommodation
Meals, where included
Books and study materials
Transport, where applicable
A monthly allowance, depending on the package

ISFAP also supports students beyond the money, with academic support, mentoring and wellness services to help them pass and graduate.

Eligibility

You may qualify if you:

Are a South African citizen
Come from a household with a combined income within ISFAP’s threshold (generally up to R600,000 a year)
Are currently in Matric or have completed Matric
Have applied to, or been accepted at, an ISFAP partner public university
Plan to study a qualification that ISFAP supports
Meet the academic and admission requirements for your chosen course

Supported Fields of Study

ISFAP funds study in priority fields where South Africa has skills shortages. These typically include:

Engineering
Computer science and information technology
Health sciences
Accounting and other approved commerce disciplines

The exact qualifications and partner universities vary each year, so check what is available for 2027 on the ISFAP application portal before you apply.

Required Documents

All copies must be certified within the last three months:

A certified copy of your ID
Matric learners: your Grade 11 final results and latest Matric results
Matric completed: your final Matric results or certificate
The ISFAP Funding Application Consent Form, signed by you and all household contributors
Proof of household income:
- recent payslips for employed household members
- affidavits for unemployed household members
- proof of any grants or pensions
Certified IDs of your parents, guardians and other household contributors

Tips for a Successful Application

Start with the consent form. Every household contributor must sign it, which can take time if family members live apart.
Check that your course is covered. Make sure both your university and your qualification are on ISFAP’s approved list for 2027.
Apply to university too. ISFAP funding depends on your admission to an approved university, so don’t miss university application deadlines.
Submit early. Funding is limited, and complete applications submitted well before the deadline have the best chance.
Have a backup. Applying for other bursaries and NSFAS (if eligible) improves your chances of being funded.