How to write an Affidavit for Bursary Applications
Applying for bursaries and scholarships can be a lifeline for students facing financial challenges, especially when one or both parents are unemployed. Many institutions require proof of financial need, and if a parent is unemployed, they might ask for an affidavit. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you write a clear and effective affidavit to confirm a parent’s unemployment status.
What is an Affidavit?
An affidavit is a sworn statement, a document that is signed and affirmed in front of a commissioner of oaths, like a lawyer or notary public, confirming that the information provided is truthful. Affidavits can also be completed at any police station, where a form will be provided for you to use. This document is legally binding and serves as formal proof in cases where official employment documents may not be available.
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Why must I submit an Affidavit with my bursary application?
Financial institutions, bursary providers, and scholarship committees need an affidavit to verify that a parent is genuinely unemployed, as it confirms the financial need for funding support. It’s especially useful if no formal record of the parent’s unemployment status (like an unemployment letter) is available.
What information must be supplied in my Affidavit?
Here’s a breakdown of what your affidavit should contain to make it complete and credible:
- Title of the Document: At the top of the document, write “Affidavit of Unemployment” or “Unemployment Affidavit.”
- Declarant Information: Start with the details of the person making the declaration (often the unemployed parent). This includes:
- Full name
- Identity number
- Physical address
- Relationship to the student applicant (e.g., “mother of Sisipho Jabavu”)
- Statement of Unemployment: The declarant (your parent) should include a statement confirming their unemployed status.
- For example: “I, [Parent’s Full Name], hereby declare that I am currently unemployed and have no regular income. I have been unemployed since [Date Unemployment Started].”
- Financial Impact on the Family: Briefly describe how the unemployment affects the family’s financial situation. Keep this part factual and concise.
- For example: “Due to my current unemployment, our family’s income is limited, making it difficult to cover educational expenses without external financial support.”
- Student’s Need for Financial Assistance: Mention the student’s need for financial support, connecting it to the bursary or scholarship application.
- For example: “This affidavit is provided to support my child’s application for financial aid to assist with their educational expenses.”
- Declaration of Truth: Conclude the affidavit with a statement of truth.
- For example: “I hereby declare that the information provided in this affidavit is accurate and truthful to the best of my knowledge.”
- Signature: The declarant must sign and date the document in the presence of a commissioner of oaths.
Sample Affidavit of Unemployment for a Bursary Application
Here’s a sample format for reference:
Affidavit of Unemployment
I, [Parent’s Full Name], with identity number [ID Number], residing at [Parent’s Address], am the [father/mother] of [Student’s Full Name], who is applying for financial assistance for educational purposes.
I hereby declare that I am currently unemployed and have been so since [Date of Unemployment]. My unemployment status limits my ability to contribute to my child’s educational expenses, which is why we are seeking bursary or scholarship support.
I affirm that the information provided here is true and accurate to the best of my knowledge.
[Parent’s Signature]
[Date]Sworn and signed before me at [Location] on this [Date].
Commissioner of Oaths
How to submit your Affidavit
Once the affidavit is signed and stamped, attach it to your application documents, following any specific submission guidelines provided by the bursary or scholarship committee.
Students should take note of the following important factors:
- Proofread Carefully: Ensure there are no errors in personal details or dates, as these could cause delays in processing.
- Make Copies: Keep a certified copy for your records in case the original is misplaced.
- Follow Up: After submitting, keep track of any additional requirements or follow-ups from the bursary or scholarship provider.
Writing an affidavit might seem formal, but it’s a straightforward process when you understand what is required. With this affidavit, you can provide the necessary proof of financial need, enhancing your application’s chances. Good luck with your application, and remember that honesty and accuracy are key in this process!