How much is the student bursary?

A student bursary is a financial aid package awarded to deserving students to assist with the costs of their tertiary education.

Unlike loans, bursaries generally do not need to be repaid.

The amount awarded varies depending on several factors, including the bursary provider, the level of study, and the student’s financial need.

What Factors Determine the student bursary Amount?

The amount of a student bursary is influenced by several factors:

  1. Bursary Provider: Different bursary providers, such as government agencies, private companies, and NGOs, have varying amounts allocated for their bursary programs. Some bursaries cover full tuition, while others provide partial funding or a living allowance.
  2. Level of Study: Bursary amounts often differ based on the level of study. For instance, a bursary for a National Certificate (NC) level might be different from one for a National Diploma (ND) or a Higher Certificate.
  3. Field of Study: Certain fields of study, such as engineering or healthcare, might attract higher bursary amounts due to the demand for skilled professionals in these sectors.
  4. Financial Need: Many bursary providers consider the student’s financial situation when determining the bursary amount. This is often assessed through a means test to evaluate the student’s family income and other financial obligations.
  5. Academic Performance: Some bursaries require a certain academic standard, and the amount awarded may be linked to the student’s academic achievements.

What Does a Student Bursary Cover?

While the exact coverage can vary, most bursaries typically cover the following expenses:

  1. Tuition fees: This is the primary expense covered by most bursaries.
  2. Accommodation: Some bursaries include a stipend for accommodation costs, either on-campus or off-campus.
  3. Living allowance: This covers daily living expenses such as food, transport, and personal items.
  4. Books and study materials: Many bursaries allocate funds for purchasing textbooks and other necessary study materials.
  5. Laptop or computer: Some bursaries may provide financial assistance towards purchasing a laptop or computer for academic purposes.

How to Apply for a Student Bursary?

The application process for bursaries can be competitive. These are some general steps to follow:

  1. Research bursary opportunities: Identify bursaries that align with your field of study and eligibility criteria.
  2. Prepare necessary documents: Gather academic records, proof of income, and other required documentation.
  3. Complete the application form: Fill in the application form accurately and provide all necessary information.
  4. Submit your application: Adhere to the application deadlines and submit your application before the closing date.

Which TVET Colleges Offer Bursaries in South Africa?

Most TVET colleges in South Africa offer some form of financial aid, including bursaries.

However, the availability and amount of bursaries may vary from one college to another.

Some of the well-known TVET colleges with student bursary programs include:

  1. Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
  2. Durban University of Technology (DUT)
  3. Ekurhuleni East College
  4. Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)
  5. Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU)
  6. North West University (NWU)
  7. Tshwane South College
  8. Vaal University of Technology (VUT)

How Much Can You Expect to Receive?

South African bursaries offer a fixed amount between the range of R80,000 to R120,000 per year or more.

These are some general information you need to know as well:

  • Partial Bursaries: These cover a portion of tuition fees and may include a small living allowance. The amount can range from a few thousand to tens of thousands of rands per year.
  • Full Tuition Bursaries: These cover the entire tuition fee but may not include living expenses. The amount will depend on the institution’s fees.
  • Comprehensive Bursaries: These cover tuition fees, accommodation, meals, textbooks, and sometimes a transport allowance. The amount can be substantial and can significantly ease the financial burden.

How Can I Find Bursaries with Higher Amounts?

Researching different student bursary providers is very important.

You must look for bursaries offered by companies in your desired field of study, as they often provide substantial support to students pursuing careers in their industry.

Government bursaries, such as those from the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), can also offer significant amounts, especially for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.