Bursaries are competitive, and almost everyone who eventually wins one has been turned down along the way. An unsuccessful application is not the end of your funding search.
1. Keep applying
Many bursaries open later in the year, and some fund students from second year onwards. Check our closing dates calendar and the bursaries open now list every week.
2. Look at less obvious funders
- Your municipality and provincial government
- SETAs linked to your field of study
- Community trusts linked to wind and solar farms near where you live
- Industry associations, such as agriculture, property or engineering bodies
- Your university’s financial aid office and faculty awards
3. Check NSFAS and the missing middle
If your household income is R350,000 or less, apply for NSFAS. If your family earns more than that but cannot afford university, look at ISFAP and other “missing middle” programmes.
4. Strengthen your next application
- Ask for feedback if the provider offers it.
- Improve your marks. Many bursaries fund students who perform well in first year.
- Build your CV with volunteering, leadership and part-time work.
- Rewrite your motivation letter so it is specific to each funder.
5. Plan how to start studying
Speak to your institution’s financial aid office about payment plans and short-term support. Some students start through a bridging or extended programme, or study part-time while working, then apply for bursaries once they have university results.