Bursaries or scholarships in South Africa are funds granted to students based on their background. University bursaries/scholarships are available for both undergraduate and postgraduates, however, most awards are for full time students. Bursaries are distributed on the basis of the financial need of the students.
In order to apply for a bursary, we must meet certain requirements of geography or demography to be eligible to a bursary.
When applying for a scholarship, you must be aware of the scholarship policies of the institution. There are different types of scholarships, such as, need, institution, general, demographic and merit-based.
How to apply for bursaries or scholarships in South Africa?
You will need to have certified and scanned copies of the following documents to apply for a bursary or scholarship in South Africa:
- National identity copy;
- Matric or latest academic results;
- Proof of parents’ income;
- Death certificates;
If you are staying with both grandparents, you can use each others letter from sassa to apply for a bursary.
What do bursaries or scholarships cover?
Bursaries/scholarships cover all our university fees, accommodation, books and learning materials, and also gives us a small monthly allowance.
Do I have to pay back the bursary or scholarship?
Bursaries are granted, not a loan. However, if you withdraw or go to another university, you may pay a certain percentage received in that academic year. Most of the time, there is no need to pay the bursary or scholarship back.
What can I spend my bursary on?
The bursary is for your fees, meals and accommodation. Bursaries also gives you monthly allowance to spend on personal needs.
In conclusion, bursaries/scholarships in South Africa play a big role in our lives by allowing us to further our studies. Hence, we can change our background. Bursaries or scholarships encourage learners to work hard, knowing that when they complete their secondary level, they can still go to university. In that way, bursaries and scholarships are there to help us.
If you want to find out more about bursaries and scholarships, check out the following link. There, you will be able to stay up-to-date about the latest scholarships available in South Africa. And, if you have something to add up to this article, please leave us a comment below.