Most bursary providers evaluate applicants using several key criteria. Some may place greater emphasis on academic performance, while others focus more on financial need or leadership potential.
The following are the factors most commonly considered.
1. Academic Performance
Academic results are usually the first screening criterion. Many bursary providers set a minimum average, often between 60% and 65%, while highly competitive bursaries may require 70% or higher, particularly for fields such as engineering, medicine, accounting, and information technology.
Selectors don’t only look at your overall average. They also pay attention to subjects that are relevant to your chosen qualification. For example, strong Mathematics and Physical Sciences marks are often important for engineering programmes.
Tip: If your marks are slightly below the preferred average but you still meet the minimum requirements, don’t assume you won’t be selected. Some bursaries place significant weight on financial need, leadership, or community involvement.
2. Financial Need
Many South African bursaries are designed to help students who would otherwise struggle to afford higher education.
To assess financial need, bursary providers may request:
- Proof of household income
- Recent payslips
- Affidavits confirming unemployment
- SASSA documentation (where applicable)
- The number of dependants in the household
- Whether other family members are currently studying
Provide accurate and honest information. Selection committees understand that financial circumstances vary, and incomplete or misleading information can result in your application being rejected.
Tip: Don’t downplay your financial circumstances. Bursary providers need a clear understanding of your situation to make informed decisions.
3. Field of Study Alignment
Many bursaries are funded by companies that aim to develop future professionals within their industries.
For example:
- Mining companies often fund Mining Engineering and Geology students.
- Banks commonly support Accounting, Finance, and Economics students.
- Technology companies frequently sponsor Computer Science, Information Systems, Cybersecurity, and Software Development students.
- Healthcare organisations usually focus on Nursing, Medicine, Pharmacy, and related qualifications.
If your chosen qualification aligns with the organisation’s industry, mention this clearly in your motivational letter and explain why you’re interested in contributing to that sector after graduating.
4. Your Motivational Letter
The motivational letter is one of the most important parts of your application because it gives selectors an opportunity to understand who you are beyond your marks.
Unfortunately, many applicants submit generic letters that could be sent to any bursary provider.
A strong motivational letter should explain:
- Why you chose your field of study
- Your long-term career goals
- Why you need financial assistance
- Your academic achievements
- Leadership or volunteer experience
- Why you believe you’re a suitable candidate
- How the bursary will help you achieve your goals
If possible, mention something specific about the organisation offering the bursary, such as its values, industry, or commitment to developing young professionals. This demonstrates that you’ve researched the funder rather than sending the same application to everyone.
Keep your letter professional, honest, and concise. In most cases, one page is sufficient.
5. Supporting Documents
Many applications are rejected before they’re fully assessed because required documents are missing or incomplete.
Most bursary providers require:
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Latest academic results
- Proof of household income
- Acceptance letter or proof of registration
- Motivational letter
- Proof of residence (where requested)
- Reference letters (if required)
Before submitting your application, carefully review the checklist provided by the bursary provider.
Tip: Certify your documents well before the application deadline. You can usually have copies certified at a South African Police Service (SAPS) station, certain Post Office branches, or other authorised commissioners of oaths.
6. Leadership and Community Involvement
Although academic performance and financial need often carry the most weight, extracurricular involvement can help distinguish you from other applicants.
Examples include:
- Student leadership positions
- Sports teams
- Volunteer work
- Community outreach projects
- Youth organisations
- Church groups
- Tutoring or mentoring younger students
These experiences demonstrate initiative, responsibility, teamwork, and leadership — qualities many bursary providers value.
What Happens After You Submit Your Application?
Once the application deadline has passed, the bursary provider typically begins reviewing all submissions.
The process often includes:
- Checking whether all required documents have been submitted.
- Confirming that applicants meet the minimum eligibility requirements.
- Reviewing academic performance and financial circumstances.
- Assessing motivational letters and supporting information.
- Shortlisting the strongest candidates.
- Conducting interviews or additional assessments (for some bursaries).
- Contacting successful applicants.
Some bursary providers may take several weeks or even months to complete the selection process, so don’t worry if you don’t receive immediate feedback.
Common Reasons Bursary Applications Are Rejected
Even strong applicants can be unsuccessful if they make avoidable mistakes.
Common reasons include:
- Missing or uncertified documents
- Applying after the closing date
- Not meeting the minimum academic requirements
- Submitting a generic motivational letter
- Applying for a bursary that doesn’t match your field of study
- Providing incomplete or inconsistent financial information
- Ignoring the application instructions
Always read the bursary requirements carefully before submitting your application.
Bursary Application Checklist
Before submitting your application, make sure you have:
- Confirmed that you meet the eligibility requirements.
- Gathered every required supporting document.
- Certified all necessary copies.
- Written a personalised motivational letter.
- Checked your spelling and grammar.
- Verified the closing date.
- Confirmed whether the application must be submitted online, by email, or in person.
- Saved copies of everything you submitted.
Applying to multiple bursaries can also improve your chances of receiving financial assistance.
Final Thoughts
Receiving a bursary isn’t only about having excellent marks. Selection committees consider your academic performance, financial circumstances, motivation, leadership potential, and whether your goals align with the organisation’s objectives.
Take the time to prepare a complete, accurate, and personalised application for every bursary you apply for. Paying attention to the small details — such as submitting certified documents, tailoring your motivational letter, and meeting every requirement — can significantly improve your chances of success.
Remember, many successful applicants weren’t the highest academic achievers. They simply submitted well-prepared applications that clearly demonstrated their potential and commitment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How are bursary applications assessed in South Africa?
Most bursary providers assess applicants based on academic performance, financial need, field of study, the quality of their motivational letter, supporting documents, and, in some cases, leadership or community involvement.
Can I apply for a bursary with average marks?
Yes. Many bursaries consider more than just academic performance. If you meet the minimum requirements and can demonstrate financial need, leadership, or strong motivation, it’s still worth applying.
How many bursaries can I apply for?
There is no limit. Applying for multiple bursaries is encouraged, provided you meet each provider’s eligibility requirements and submit complete applications.
What happens if my documents aren’t certified?
Many bursary providers reject incomplete applications automatically. Always check whether certified copies are required before submitting your application.
How long does it take to hear back after applying?
Response times vary between bursary providers. Some notify successful applicants within a few weeks, while others may take several months. If the advertised response period has passed, you can politely contact the provider to ask for an update.
Ready to apply? Browse the latest bursaries in South Africa on CareerGateSA, or read our guide on How to Write a CV With No Experience if you’re also applying for internships, learnerships, or part-time jobs.