ISACA

About ISACA

ISACA is a global professional association for people who work in IT governance, audit, risk, cybersecurity and information systems. It was once called the Information Systems Audit and Control Association. Members belong to local chapters around the world, and the South Africa Chapter holds events and forums for professionals in this field.

The ISACA Foundation is the charitable arm of the association. It funds scholarships in several countries, including South Africa. Its goal is to widen the pipeline of talent into technology careers by backing students from communities that are underrepresented in the IT profession.

How ISACA supports students

The South Africa scholarship round for the 2026 academic year offered six awards. Four went to undergraduate students and two to postgraduate students. Each award was worth US$1,000, paid straight to the recipient in July. The money can go towards tuition, registration fees, school books, supplies and essential technology.

Cash is only part of the benefit. Winners also receive a career-building bundle. It included one year of ISACA student membership, a place on one ISACA certification course, and registration for a virtual conference. Recipients can also join the ISACA mentorship programme and get help to set up a student group.

The programme began in 2022. Since then, ISACA reports that it has awarded more than US$1 million to around 500 students worldwide.

What to know before applying

You must be at least 18 and enrolled in an undergraduate or postgraduate programme. The field should be computer science, information systems or a related technology area. Study can take place at a university, a university of technology or a TVET college in South Africa.

The scholarship is aimed at people who identify as part of an underrepresented community in IT. That can include race, gender, ethnicity, disability and other backgrounds. You also need a free ISACA account to apply online.

Recipients make some commitments. They agree to attend at least one chapter event within three months of the award. They must also stay in touch with the Foundation twice a year for two years. There is no job obligation attached to this scholarship.

The 2026 round closed on 5 May 2026. Because deadlines and award numbers vary from year to year, check the ISACA South Africa Chapter pages for the current call. Have your identity document, academic records and proof of enrolment ready before you begin.

Think carefully about how you tell your story. Explain why technology matters to you and how a career in audit, security or risk fits your plans. Show how you want to serve your community as well. ISACA also lists past recipients on its website, which gives you a sense of the kind of students it backs. Finally, keep your account details safe and submit well before the closing time, because late applications are not accepted.