A bursary is a kind of grant offered to pay for your studies. There are so many different kinds of bursaries and various companies and organisations which offer them.
If you are looking for a way to fund your studies make sure you can answer the following before entering into a financial agreement.
Requirements
The first issue is whether or not you qualify for the bursary. Only qualifying candidates will be able to receive funding. You made need to provide information about your academic results, family life and study plans to prove that you are eligible.
Find out:
- If you need to be a South African citizen
- Which subjects or marks you will need to qualify
- If your parents or guardians need to earn a certain amount per annum
- If you need to be accepted at a university first
Application process
To submit your application successfully you need to do it according to the procedure set out by the organisation.
Find out:
- If you need to apply online or in print
- When the applications open and close
- Which documents you need to apply
Inclusions
Some bursaries cover additional expenses such as text books and registration fees while others only cover the cost of your tuition.
Find out:
- What the bursary covers
- If the coverage is the same for each year of your course
- If you will receive a set amount of money
Conditions
Some sponsors have strict conditions regarding the performance of the student over the academic course.
Find out:
- If you need to earn a certain grade during your study period
- If you need to work for the company after you have completed your studies
- What the policy is for students who fail a subject or don't complete their studies
Repayment policy
Generally beneficiaries are not expected to pay back the money for the bursary. However if you are expected to repay part or all of the money it is best to know up front.
Find out:
- If you must repay the full amount
- When you need to start making repayments
- How repayments must be made
You can view the latest bursaries available on Bursaries Portal.
