How to apply for bursaries in South Africa

Securing a bursary can be a good thing for students in South Africa, providing financial assistance that can make higher education more accessible. Applying for a bursary can help alleviate the financial burden, especially for students who come from a disadvantaged background. In this blog post we will explore bursaries, type of bursaries, advantages of bursaries and finally how to apply for bursaries. 

What is a bursary?

A bursary is a monetary award made by any educational institution, government or company 
to deserving individuals. Bursaries are awarded to allow individuals to further their studies in higher learning 
institutions. Bursaries are awarded based on the learner’s academic performance or financial need. Good thing about bursaries is that they do not necessarily have to be paid back.

Types and Examples of Bursaries

1. Government Bursaries

These bursaries are offered by the South African government. Government bursaries can be offered 
at the national, provincial, and departmental levels to assist students from disadvantaged backgrounds or those studying specific fields. Below are examples of government bursaries;

• Funza Lushaka Bursary
• National Student Financial Aid Scheme
• GCRA
• City of Johannesburg Bursary
• Compensation Fund Bursary
• Emfuleni Local Municipality Bursary

2. Field Bursaries

Field bursaries are offered by various companies, organisations and foundations. These bursaries 
are offered to a specific field and do not fund all the courses offered in universities and colleges. 
For example Eskom have field bursaries and learners eligible to apply are those who want to study 
engineering courses that are related to the Eskom services.

 Eskom for example, cannot offer bursaries in the field of tourism, hospitality or geography because they don’t specialize in that field. The reason behind companies offering field bursaries is that they look forward to the fact that the same students they funded will in turn work in their company and of course boost their CSI portfolios. Below are examples of field bursaries;

• Eskom Bursary
• Sasol Bursary
• Shoprite Bursary
• Palesa Mine Bursary
• Amazon Bursary
• Transnet Bursary
• Investec Bursary
• Old Mutual Bursary
• Standard Bursary
• Toyota South Africa Bursary

BURSARY REQUIREMENTS IN SOUTH AFRICA

Bursary requirements are not a one size fit all. Each bursary programme has its own requirements which can be totally different from the other bursary programme. Please note that bursaries may require additional requirements. Below are the general requirements of most bursaries in South Africa:

• You must be a South African citizen
• Must be between the age of 18-25
• You must currently be in matric, have completed matric or a registered student in higher learning institution.
• You must be studying or have been accepted to study in a certain field
• Study at a recognised and accredited higher institution in South Africa
• You must study full time
• Some bursary programmes may require that students be residing in a certain area
• Some bursary programmes give preference to previously disadvantaged (financially needy) candidates 
  and those who live with disabilities
• You must not be an employee of the specific company awarding the bursary
• You must have a good attitude with dedication, passion and drive
   

BURSARY REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Bursary required documents are not a one size fit all. Each bursary programme require its own documents. Below are the general required documents of most bursaries in South Africa:

• Your certified ID copy
• Your grade 11 report if you are currently in matric
• June Matric results if you are currently in matric
• Your certified Matric results if completed matric
• Certified copies of your qualification or certificates if applicable
• Certified copies of the most recent academic record if currently studying
• Proof of registration at tertiary or an acceptance letter
• Certified copy of ID of parents or guardians
• Parents or guardians proof of income (latest payslip if they are employed/ affidavit if 
  unemployed/ proof of grant or pension if applicable/affidavit or death certificates if deceased)
• 3 months bank statement
• Proof of residence
• Motivational letter to support your application and explain why you should be awarded the bursary
• Testimonials (from the principal, church or local civic leader)
• Signed declaration (you get on the bursary provider website/optional)
• Proof of disability from a doctor if disabled
• Curriculum Vitae
• Art: Portfolio/ Your pictures

How to apply for bursaries in South Africa

Applying for bursaries in South Africa is a straight forward process. Some bursary programmes allow online applications while other accept hard copy (form) applications. Below we have listed steps to get you started with your bursary application:

• Identify Potential Bursaries

Start by researching and identifying bursaries that align with your field of study, academic performance, and personal circumstances. You can find bursary opportunities through university websites, government websites, corporate website and bursary portals such as Edu Connect.

• Check Requirements

Each bursary has specific eligibility requirements, ensure that before you apply you carefully study them. If you don't meet requirements , do not force and apply as your application will be rejected. There are so many bursary programmes, if you don't qualify for one, you check the other bursaries. 

• Do the Application 

If you qualify for your desired bursary, go ahead and apply. First determine which method the bursary uses to accept applications. If it is online, visit the bursary website and click on the apply button. If it is offline, download the bursary application form, print it out, fill in the form, scan the completed form and send back to the bursary provider through the listed channels (send the form via email/fax or post)

Tips to fill out your form/online application form:

Read Instructions Carefully and adhere to the bursary provider’s guidelines 

Ensure all fields are completed accurately and honestly.

Review all documents and forms for accuracy and completeness.

• Closing Dates

Submit your application by the specified deadline. Late submissions are not considered. Usually bursaries do specify that if you have not received feedback from the 3 months after the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful. If your application is unsuccessful, continue to explore other funding options, such as: Scholarships and loans. 
 

Advantages of bursaries 

• You do not have to pay back the money
• You may be hired after completing your studies by the company that provides the bursary
• Gain experience (work/volunteer during school holidays/ army/ gcra)
• Bursaries allow you to further your studies and obtain a qualification
• Cover your educational expenses (allowance)

Disadvantages of bursaries

• You forfeit your bursary if you perform badly or fail modules
• May not pay for your registration fee
• Hard to get bursaries because they take students who perform well in matric or in varsity
• May undergo tests and interviews
• You may have to volunteer with the organisation during your studies (holiday time)
• Work for the period you were funded (Funza Lushaka bursary)
• Some bursaries do not cover all the educational expenses

Applying for bursaries in South Africa involves careful research, thorough preparation, and adherence to application guidelines. By identifying suitable bursaries, understanding eligibility criteria, and submitting a well-prepared application, you can enhance your chances of receiving financial assistance.