As students near the beginning of their academic year, one can always expect a high demand for bursaries and other funding options to help fund students' education. As a result of this demand, it is important that students know everything they need to about how to apply for bursaries, and what might help them stand out prior to and during the application process.
The following are some tips that may help students secure their own bursaries:
Apply early
Don't wait till you reach your matric year to look for financial aid opportunities. By the time you enter Grade 10 you should have started to think seriously about potential careers.
Research which higher education institutions offer study programmes that correspond with your career choice. Find out about entrance requirements, course fees and funding opportunities and apply for these as soon as possible.
Early application also eliminates the stress often caused by postponing such an important task.
Work hard at school
Don't make the minimum entrance requirements for a study programme your academic goal.Go beyond what is expected.
The quickest way to get the attention of a company or potential benefactor is through your marks. Sponsors are not only looking for the most disadvantaged student.
They want to select a student that is going to make a positive contribution to society.
Show interest in your community
As mentioned before your success is not merely determined by the actual application process but rather by the work you do before you apply.
In some cases, applicants will be required to provide relevant real-life examples of where they have demonstrated initiative, determination and hard work. Using community work as a reference is a good way to show these traits.
Displaying entrepreneurial and leadership qualities outside of school will set you apart from other applicants. Make a point of participating in community work or extra mural activities that will enhance your application.
Follow application directions
Different companies offer different types of bursary opportunities at different times during the year.
Make sure that you don't miss out on opportunities by subscribing to career websites like ours at Careers Portal to receive alerts about opening and closing application dates.
Find out in advance which legal documents must be included and where to apply for the bursary. You may need to certify documents which will require additional time and effort.
In most cases you will be asked to fill out a bursary form and return it via post, email or through an online application process. Whether or not you are selected to receive a particular bursary it always pays to do your research, be prepared and work hard.
There may be a different opportunity waiting for you on the horizon.
Funding Institutions:
Fundi - 0860 55 55 44
National Career Advice Helpline. 086 999 0123
National Youth Development Agency- 0800525252
National Student Financial Aid Scheme - 021 763 3232
Click Here to visit the Students Loans Page on Careers Portal
