What Expenses does a Bursary Cover in South Africa?
College is fun and great until it’s time to pay your fees. Tuition fees, accommodation, textbooks, and living expenses can quickly pile up and make you feel very miserable.
But all hope is not lost, you can make it all simpler by applying for a bursary from recognized and reliable organizations.
Not sure where to begin? Well, that’s exactly what I’m here for. This article will provide you with answers to every question you may have about just how much these bursaries cover.
What is a Bursary?
A bursary is a financial award that is provided by various organizations, both governmental and private, to support brilliant but needy students pursuing higher education.
These awards are mostly granted to deserving students on the condition that they meet certain specific criteria, such as maintaining a good academic performance or agreeing to work for the sponsoring organization after graduation.
Unlike scholarships, bursaries often focus on students from disadvantaged backgrounds or students studying in some specific fields.
What Expenses Does a Bursary Cover in South Africa?
How much bursaries cover can vary depending on the bursary program and its policies.
However, some common expenses covered by bursaries in South Africa include:
- Tuition fees: This is often the primary focus of bursaries because they are the most important costs.
- Accommodation: Many bursaries also provide assistance with the cost of student housing, either through direct financial support or by cutting down their campus accommodation fees.
- Textbooks and stationery: Some bursaries also often provide funds to cover the costs for these essential learning materials.
- Living expenses: This is not common, but some bursaries also cater for basic living expenses like food and transportation, especially for students who can’t afford it at all.
- Additional costs: Depending on the bursary program, additional expenses like laptops, medical aid, or even internship costs may be covered.
Who qualifies for a bursary in South Africa?
Eligibility for bursaries depends on the bursary program’s criteria, but some common qualifying factors include:
- Financial need: Bursaries are aimed at students who face financial hardship and would struggle to afford their education without assistance.
- Academic merit: Many bursaries require a strong academic record, with minimum GPA requirements often stipulated.
- Field of study: Certain bursaries target specific fields like the STEM fields or education.
- Some bursaries may consider additional factors like geographic location, race, or community involvement.
Bursaries are not only awarded based on good grades. Financial need, social background, and commitment to the bursary’s objectives also play an important role in the selection process.
Should I apply for a bursary?
If you’re facing financial difficulties in pursuing your education, applying for bursaries is a great way to help yourself.
Even if you don’t meet all the criteria for a specific bursary, there are countless other opportunities available.