Preparing to submit your bursary application? Here are our top tips to better your chances of being funded
Applying for a bursary may seem daunting – so many documents to compile, a lengthy application to complete, and to top it off, a looming deadline. But not to fear, SA Bursaries, South Africa’s largest bursary website is here to help.
We offer you the following tips to help you put your best foot forwards when submitting your bursary application:
1. Certify all of your supporting documentation (when required)
First off, make sure that you have all of the supporting documentation that is required for the bursary you are applying for – generally this includes your ID document; latest academic record; proof of tertiary application and acceptance, but sometimes you will also be required to submit additional documentation such as your parents or guardians proof of income and proof of residence.
Once you’ve compiled all your documents, make sure that they are certified – this can be done be anyone who is a commissioner of oaths at your local police station, post office or bank.
Also remember that you should only be submitting copies of your documents (and not the originals), as documents will not be returned to applicants.
2. Apply before the closing date
This should be quite obvious, but if you are submitting your application via post, you need to ensure that you submit in time that your application reaches the bursary office before the deadline. Under no circumstances are late application accepted. (See which bursaries are currently open for application here: http://www.zabursaries.co.za/bursary-news/)
3. Always answer honest and don’t leave out any information
Honesty is vital when applying for a bursary – reference, credit and criminal checks will be conducted by the bursary provider before any bursary agreements are signed.
Also, don’t forget to double and triple check that you have not left any fields blank on the application form – applicants will not be contacted to confirm any missing information, so omitting information could be detrimental to your application.
4. Write a convincing motivational letter
What sets you apart from other bursary applicants? Why do you deserve to be awarded the bursary more than the next candidate? How will getting a bursary change your future? How will you contribute to society when you have completed your studies? These are all things you should think about when writing a motivational letter to support your application. (read our tips on how to write a motivational letter for your bursary application).
5. Have good contactable references
References are a pillar to strength for your application, so make sure that you have references with good standing – this can include a school principle, community leader or other authority figure.
Verify with your reference whether they would be comfortable with supporting your application and make sure that you submit their correct contact details (telephone number and email address).
6. Check your email and texts regularly
Students that have been shortlisted for the bursary, will receive feedback in the form of an email, SMS or telephone call, so make sure you don’t miss that important communication. Shortlisted candidates are generally required to attend an interview before final selection is made, so make sure that you show up on time.
Don’t forget to check which bursaries are open for application and read our bursary tips and articles (including how to write a motivational letter for your bursary application, how to prepare for a bursary interview, our tips to submitting a bursary application and more).
Are you following us on social media? We post our latest bursary opportunities and reminders of bursaries closing soon on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
