What expenses does a Bursary cover?
When applying for bursary opportunities it is important to know exactly what will be covered by your the funder and what expenses you will need funding for.
While some bursaries and scholarships provide full cover for study-related expenses, some only provide partial cover. When applying for partial bursaries, it is important to remember that you will need to secure additional funding to make up for the expenses not covered (this can be in the form of an additional bursary, student loan or other award).
Tuition fees:
Some organisations will fund full tuition fees, whilst others may only fund a percentage (this may be determined by the students financial position or the funders availability of funds). This award is generally paid directly to the institution where the student is studying.
Prescribed books:
Most bursary providers cover the cost of prescribed books, as these are essential study materials. Funding may be paid into the students account or directly to the institution where the student is studying. Bursary providers will usually request an invoice for proof of required books and the relevant expenses.
Study devices (such as laptops):
Some bursary awards may also provide students with laptops (and sometimes even cellphones, airtime and data). Laptops are sometimes a requirement of a course as students may need to submit assignments online. Cellphones may also be provided along with data to allow you to keep in contact with your loved ones and your bursary funder.
If a bursary funds you with these additional devices and items, be sure to respect, use them appropriately, and look after them. This will put you in good stead as the funder will see you as responsible and trustworthy.
Accommodation:
It is important to note, that not all bursaries fund accommodation. As a recipient of a bursary award, it is your responsibility to verify this with the funder so that if you need to make prior living arrangements, you can prepare well in advance. The bursary provider may only fund accommodation in university residence, or they may also fund accommodation in private residence, up to a capped amount.
Food allowance:
Some funders provide students with a food allowance, either in cash form or in vouchers. Sometimes students receive vouchers for food, travel, accommodation, books, and travel which can only be used for those expenses.
Travel allowance:
Funders usually provide this to students who live far from their chosen institution so that their travel expenses to and from university can be covered. If you are staying in a university residence, you may not need this allowance.
General allowance:
This is a monthly allowance that your funder may provide for general living expenses. General allowances are often received every month to ensure that you can entertain yourself as well as buy necessities such as toiletries and clothes.
It is important that you use this allowance wisely and are financially savvy. Should you have the privilege of receiving a general allowance, try to adopt good financial tactics such as saving and budgeting. Avoid using this money carelessly through too much partying and unnecessary social endeavours.
See which bursaries are open for application here
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Read our top tips on submitting your bursary application for the best chance of success.
Read our tips on how to write a bursary motivational letter here.
Read about how to prepare for a bursary interview here here.
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Read about the National Benchmark Test (NBT) for University Entrance.
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This post was last updated in August 2022.
SA Bursaries wishes you the best of luck with your application! Please remember to SHARE this page with anyone you know who may be in need of bursary funding.