How much do bursaries pay in South Africa

Financing your education in South Africa can be tough sometimes.

Thankfully, bursaries offer a fantastic opportunity to ease the financial burden and pursue your academic goals.

But how much exactly do bursaries pay? Bursary amounts can vary depending on several factors.

This article will explain everything you need to understand about bursary payouts in South Africa, including the factors that influence them and the different coverage options available.

What is the difference between a bursary and a scholarship?

While both bursaries and scholarships offer financial aid for education, there’s a main difference.

Bursaries are awarded based on financial need alongside academic merit.

Scholarships, on the other hand, primarily focus on academic excellence, with financial need playing a lesser role or no role at all.

Who qualifies for a bursary in South Africa?

Eligibility criteria for bursaries vary depending on the provider. However, some general requirements include:

  1. South African citizenship or permanent residency.
  2. Financial need as determined by household income.
  3. Strong academic performance, with specific bursaries having minimum academic requirements.
  4. Enrollment or acceptance at an accredited university or TVET college in South Africa.
  5. Meeting any specific requirements of the bursary provider, such as studying a particular field.

What are the different types of bursary coverage in South Africa?

Bursaries in South Africa come in a variety of coverage levels, catering to different financial needs.

Here are some of the most common types:

  1. Partial Coverage Bursaries: These bursaries cover a specific expense, such as tuition fees, or offer a set amount per year that may not encompass all your needs. The range for partial coverage bursaries can vary from R10,000 to R30,000 annually.
  2. Full Tuition Coverage Bursaries: As the name suggests, these bursaries cover the entirety of your tuition fees. This can be a significant benefit, especially for students attending universities with high fees. The range for full-tuition coverage bursaries falls between R40,000 and R80,000 per year.
  3. Comprehensive Coverage Bursaries: These bursaries are the most comprehensive financial aid packages, covering not only tuition fees but also living expenses like accommodation, food, transport, textbooks, and even medical aid contributions. Amounts for comprehensive coverage bursaries can range from R80,000 to R120,000 or even higher, depending on the bursary provider.

How does my level of study affect the bursary amount?

The level of study you’re pursuing can really influence the amount a bursary offers.

Generally, bursary amounts increase as you progress through your academic journey:

  1. Undergraduate Bursaries: These bursaries cater to students enrolled in Bachelor’s degree programs. The funding might be sufficient to cover basic needs but may not be as extensive as postgraduate options.
  2. Postgraduate Bursaries: Recognizing the increased costs associated with advanced degrees, postgraduate bursaries often provide more substantial financial support. These bursaries might fall under the comprehensive coverage category, offering more comprehensive financial aid.
  3. Honours and Diploma Bursaries: Funding for honours and diploma programs can vary depending on the bursary provider. However, they normally fall somewhere between undergraduate and postgraduate bursary amounts.

Do bursaries consider my academic performance?

Yes, academic performance is a major factor for many bursary providers.

Bursaries often have minimum academic requirements that applicants must meet.

Additionally, some bursaries are merit-based, meaning they prioritize students with outstanding academic records.

Strong academic performance demonstrates your dedication to your studies and increases your chances of securing a bursary.

Where can I find bursaries for specific fields of study?

Numerous bursaries cater to specific fields of study, particularly those deemed critical for South Africa’s development.

Here are some resources to help you find relevant bursaries:

  1. The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS): NSFAS offers bursaries for various undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications in priority fields like science, engineering, technology, and education.
  2. Company Websites: Many companies offer bursaries in fields relevant to their operations. Explore the websites of companies in your industry to see if they offer bursary programs.
  3. Industry Associations: Professional bodies and industry associations often provide bursary opportunities for students pursuing careers in their respective fields.
  4. Bursary Search Engines: Online platforms like Bursaries South Africa and MyBursary allow you to search for bursaries based on your field of study and other criteria.