By: Poelano Malema
Did you pass your Matric with flying colours, but don’t have the funds to further your studies?
Tertiary education fees are expensive, and many parents, especially from disadvantaged backgrounds, can’t afford to pay for their child’s studies.
Although there are ways of getting funding, one of the best is through a bursary. A bursary will help you achieve your educational goals without the added pressure of finances.
So, if you are a student looking for a bursary to fund your studies, here is what you need to know:
What does a bursary cover?
There are different things that bursaries cover. Some bursaries might cover your entire course fees, while some might pay only a certain percentage of the fees.
There are also bursaries that come with added benefits like groceries, study material, and accommodation.
Who qualifies for a bursary?
To get a bursary, you must also be studying or intend to study within a specific field of study which is suitable for the bursary programme.
You must have a good academic history and have passed the required subjects for the course you wish to study with good marks.
Most bursaries will require that you are a South African citizen.
Some bursaries will ask that you have a proven financial need.
What are the conditions of getting a bursary?
Each company or organisation will have its own criteria. However, some might require that you work for them in return after you have completed your studies.
Some bursaries might only cover you for as long as you pass your modules and don’t fail your course.
What is the bursary application process?
The first step is to apply to a tertiary institution of your choice and choose a course you want to study. It is advisable to apply to at least two or three tertiary institutions and apply as soon as possible.
Search for bursaries online or from different companies. Make sure to read the information brochure of the bursary. Then check the requirements and make sure you have all the required documents.
Fill out all the required information.
It is important that your cover letter or motivational letter is strong and free from grammatical errors. Remember to check the closing dates.
Government bursaries for 2021/22
The South African government is offering bursaries to people who meet the following criteria:
- South African citizen
- Currently in Matric and have obtained good academic results so far OR have completed Matric with good academic results
- Studying or have been accepted to study in certain fields (usually skill-shortage fields)
- Certain bursary programmes may require that students reside in a certain area.
Click on this link to get a list of the bursaries offered by the government.
