How much is the ISFAP Bursary monthly allowance?

The ISFAP (Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme) is a lifeline for many South African students seeking to further their education at TVET colleges.

Offering comprehensive financial support, including tuition fees, accommodation, and living allowances, ISFAP plays a pivotal role in making tertiary education accessible. 

What is the ISFAP Bursary?

Established to address the financial challenges faced by students from disadvantaged backgrounds, the ISFAP offers financial support to cover tuition fees, accommodation, meals, transport, and a living allowance.

This holistic approach ensures that beneficiaries can focus on their studies without undue financial burdens.

How is the ISFAP Bursary Monthly Allowance Determined?

The monthly allowance component of the ISFAP bursary is designed to cover living expenses, including food, toiletries, and other personal needs.

The exact amount varies based on several factors:

  1. Cost of living: The location of the TVET college significantly impacts living expenses. Urban areas generally have higher costs compared to rural areas.
  2. Course duration: The length of your course will influence the overall bursary amount, including the monthly allowance.
  3. Financial need: ISFAP prioritizes students from low-income backgrounds, and the monthly allowance is calculated accordingly.

It’s important to note that the ISFAP bursary is a needs-based grant, meaning the amount awarded is determined by your financial situation.

While ISFAP strives to provide adequate support, the monthly allowance might not cover all your living expenses.

You must know that careful budgeting is important to make the most of the funds received.

What Does the ISFAP Bursary Cover Besides the Monthly Allowance?

In addition to the monthly allowance, the ISFAP bursary covers several other essential expenses:

  1. Tuition fees: ISFAP covers the full cost of tuition for approved courses at partner TVET colleges.
  2. Accommodation: If you qualify, ISFAP can provide funding for on-campus accommodation or contribute towards off-campus rental costs.
  3. Meals: You may receive a meal allowance to cover the cost of food.
  4. Transport: ISFAP can assist with transportation costs, either through a travel allowance or by contributing towards public transport fares.
  5. Books and stationery: Funds are allocated for purchasing essential study materials.
  6. Laptop: In some cases, ISFAP may provide a laptop to aid in your studies.

How to Apply for the ISFAP Bursary

To apply for the ISFAP bursary, you typically need to meet the following criteria:

  1. Be a South African citizen
  2. Come from a low-income or middle-income household
  3. Have achieved the required academic qualifications for admission to a TVET college
  4. Be registered or intending to register at an ISFAP partner TVET college

The application process involves submitting the necessary documentation, including proof of income, academic records, and identification.

It’s advisable to visit the official ISFAP website or your chosen TVET college for detailed application requirements and deadlines.

How Long Does it Take to Receive the ISFAP Bursary?

The processing time for ISFAP bursary applications can vary.

Once your application is complete and approved, you may receive your first disbursement within a few weeks.

However, you need to be patient and follow up with the ISFAP office if there are any delays.

What Happens if I Fail My Course While on ISFAP?

Failing a course while on ISFAP can have consequences.

The bursary is awarded based on academic performance, and failure may result in the termination of your funding.

However, some recovery options might be available.

You should contact ISFAP immediately to discuss your situation and explore potential solutions.