How do you qualify for Unisa Council bursary?

Unisa offers the Council Bursary to financially disadvantaged South African students who demonstrate academic merit.

This bursary can be a lifeline for those seeking a quality education at a distance learning university.

But how exactly do you qualify for this esteemed scholarship? 

Who is eligible for the Unisa Council Bursary?

To be eligible for the Unisa Council Bursary, you must meet the following criteria:

  1. South African Citizenship: This bursary is exclusively for South African citizens.
  2. Formal Qualification Registration: You must be registered for a formal undergraduate qualification offered by Unisa.
  3. Academic Performance: A strong academic record is crucial. You need a minimum of 75% average in your previous year of study.
  4. Financial Need: The bursary prioritizes students with demonstrable financial need.

It’s important to note that only one application is allowed per academic year.

Existing bursary recipients (awarded in 2023) do not need to reapply.

However, they must maintain the 75% average to retain the bursary in 2024.

What does the Unisa Council Bursary cover?

The Unisa Council Bursary provides financial assistance to cover the following:

  1. Tuition Fees: The bursary covers the full cost of tuition fees for your registered qualification.
  2. Prescribed Textbooks: The bursary also helps with the cost of essential textbooks required for your studies.

Please note that the bursary does not cover any additional costs associated with your studies, such as accommodation, living expenses, or stationery.

What documents do I need to apply for the Unisa Council Bursary?

When applying for the Unisa Council Bursary, you will need to submit the following documents:

  1. Certified copy of your South African ID document
  2. Proof of household income: This could include payslips, bank statements, or a sworn affidavit from a parent/guardian if unemployed.
  3. Parents/Guardians’ ID documents (applicable to dependent applicants): If you are financially dependent on your parents/guardians, you will need to include copies of their ID documents.
  4. Your full academic record: This includes your transcript or any other official document that shows your academic performance.

How do I apply for the Unisa Council Bursary?

The application process typically involves downloading the application form from the Unisa website, completing it accurately, and submitting it along with the required documents.

While application details might change, here’s a general guideline:

  1. Visit the Unisa Student Funding section under “Financial Aid for Students.”
  2. Look for information on the Unisa Council Bursary, including application forms and deadlines.
  3. Download the application form and complete it thoroughly.
  4. Ensure you have all the necessary supporting documents.
  5. Submit your completed application form and documents according to the instructions provided by Unisa (usually by mail or online submission if available).

When is the deadline to apply for the Unisa Council Bursary?

Unfortunately, the application window for the Unisa Council Bursary typically closes in May each year.

Be sure to check the official Unisa website for the exact deadline for the upcoming academic year.

The Unisa Council Bursary application form is usually available for download on the Unisa website within the Student Affairs & SRC section under Student Funding.

How are Unisa Council Bursary recipients selected?

The selection process for Unisa Council Bursary recipients considers a combination of factors, including academic merit, financial need, and available funding.

Can I apply for the Unisa Council Bursary if I am an international student?

The Unisa Council Bursary is only available for South African citizens.

International students should explore alternative funding options offered by Unisa or external scholarship providers.

What happens after I submit my Unisa Council Bursary application?

Once you submit your application, it will be reviewed by the Unisa financial aid department.

If shortlisted, you may be contacted for further information or an interview.

The final selection results are usually communicated via email after the application deadline has closed.