Missing Middle Funding: How to Apply for ISFAP 2026

Many South African students struggle to fund their university studies because they earn too much to qualify for NSFAS but not enough to pay fees themselves. 

The Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme (ISFAP) was created to support this group, known as the missing middle, by providing bursary funding and student support. 

What Is ISFAP and Who Is It For?

ISFAP stands for the Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme. 

It is a bursary initiative backed by government partners, private companies, and development organisations. 

Its purpose is to fund South African students who:

1. Are citizens of South Africa.
2. Have a combined household income between R350 000 and R600 000 per year.
3. Do not qualify for NSFAS, because they earn above NSFAS’s income threshold.
4. Are accepted or applying for acceptance into a public university in South Africa.
5. Are studying towards programmes in fields with skills demand

ISFAP focuses on funding students in critical skills areas such as engineering, health sciences, accounting, information technology and sciences, and other fields that support South Africa’s economic growth.

Why ISFAP Matters for Missing Middle Students

The “missing middle” includes students whose families earn too much to meet NSFAS criteria but still struggle to afford university education. 

This group often includes children of working professionals like nurses, teachers, small business owners, and civil servants who cannot self‑fund tertiary study. 

ISFAP fills this gap by providing financial support and academic support services that help students complete their qualifications successfully.

ISFAP also offers student development support and career preparation services. 

This includes academic mentorship and psychosocial support to help students deal with both academic challenges and life pressures during their studies.

What ISFAP Funding Covers

If you are awarded ISFAP funding for 2026, the bursary may cover:

1. Tuition fees at your registered partner university.
2. Accommodation or travel allowances, depending on your living situation.
3. Books and study materials.
4. Meals and a monthly stipend.
5. Structured academic support and wellness programmes.

The full package is intended to reduce financial pressure so students can focus on their studies and complete their qualifications.

What Is the ISFAP 2026 Application Deadline?

For the 2026 academic year, the ISFAP bursary application period opened earlier in 2025 and closed on 31 October 2025 at midnight. 

Any applications submitted after that date will not be considered for 2026 and will instead be held for the 2027 funding cycle.

If you missed the deadline and still require funding for 2026, you should contact ISFAP directly to check whether any special streams, discretionary funding, or partnership opportunities are available. 

However, the official online application period for the main bursary programme is firm.

How to Apply for ISFAP 2026

The ISFAP application process is fully online and must be completed through the official portal. Here is the step‑by‑step process:

1. Visit the ISFAP online application portal at applyonline.isfap.org.za.
2. Register an account using your South African ID number, email address, and a secure password.
3. Log in to your new account to begin the application form.
4. Complete all sections of the online application accurately, including your personal details, academic history, and household income information.
5. Upload all required documents (certified within three months).
6. Review your application carefully before submission to avoid errors or omissions.
7. Submit your application before the closing date to ensure it is considered.

Applications without required supporting documents or with incomplete information are usually rejected or not processed.

Documents Required for ISFAP 2026

When applying, you must upload certified copies (within the last three months) of:

1. Your South African ID.
2. Grade 11 final results and latest Matric results if you are still in school.
3. Matric certificate or final results if already completed.
4. ISFAP Funding Application Consent Form signed by yourself and household contributors.
5. Proof of household income, such as payslips, affidavits, or grant letters.
6. Certified ID copies of parents or all household contributors.

Confirm that all documents are legible and clearly labelled before uploading.

What Happens After You Apply

After submission, ISFAP will:

1. Verify your application and documents.
2. Review academic merit, household income, and programme eligibility.
3. Match your application with funding partner criteria.
4. Contact shortlisted candidates for further validation or interviews if needed.
5. Notify successful applicants by email or through the portal.

This process can take weeks, so check your email and portal regularly after submitting your application.

Where to Get Help

If you have questions about the application or need assistance:

• Email ISFAP at students@isfap.org.za or postgrad@isfap.org.za (for postgraduate queries).
• Call the national hotline on 010 880 0400 during office hours.