Bursaries For 2024 Undergraduate South African Students
Are you aspiring to start university or college education soon but worried about financial issues? Well, bursaries are a good way to get financial support for higher education.
This article will guide you by providing you with all the information you will need to apply for the ideal bursary.
What is are bursaries?
Unlike a loan, bursaries are free money, a gift granted based on your academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria set by the sponsor.
Whether you’re an engineering student, a social justice student, or a future actor in the making, there’s a bursary out there to support you.
Who qualifies for a bursary?
The good news is, bursaries are extremely diverse. While academic excellence is often a key factor, many bursaries prioritize financial need, specific fields of study, or even factors like being the first in your family to attend university.
So, even if your Matric marks weren’t straight A’s, don’t worry.
Just check out bursaries aimed at disadvantaged communities, rural students, or those pursuing niche fields like agriculture or renewable energy. You might be surprised at what good ones you’ll come across.
How to apply for a bursary?
Applying for bursaries requires some planning and effort, but trust me, it’s worth the sweat. Here’s your guide to successfully securing a bursary:
1. Do your research: You can do your research on available bursaries by simply exploring our blog to find the right one for you.
Use the menu filters to narrow down your options based on your field of study, province, and academic record.
2. Meet the deadlines: Bursaries have strict application windows, so mark your calendar and be prompt.
3. Prepare your documents: Get your academic transcripts, motivation letters, and proof of income polished and ready to go. Remember, first impressions always matter.
4. Tailor your applications: Don’t just copy-paste your essay for every bursary. Research the sponsor and highlight how your goals align with their values.
Show them you’re not just about the money, but passionate about making a difference.
5. Follow up: After submitting your application, don’t be afraid to politely follow up with the bursary provider.
Show them you’re genuinely interested and eager to become part of their academic family.
List Of Available Bursaries For Undergraduate Students 2024
Ready to discover the various bursaries available to you? Here’s a list of some options you can apply for as an undergraduate student:
The Mandela Rhodes Scholarship: Open to outstanding South African students who want to pursue postgraduate studies at Oxford University.
The Sasol Inzalo Bursary Scheme: Supports disadvantaged students pursuing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) degrees at various South African universities.
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS): Provides financial assistance to academically deserving students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds.
The Standard Bank Bursary Programme: Offers bursaries for a wide range of undergraduate degrees, with a focus on fields like engineering, accounting, and information technology.
The Funza Lushaka Bursary Fund: Supports students from rural areas who want to pursue studies in healthcare, education, and agriculture.
Remember, the key is to research, apply strategically, and stay persistent. There are many bursary options available to you. All you need to do is put in your maximum effort to find the right one.