Tutorials

Bursary Application Checklist: Documents You Must Have

June 8, 2025

Applying for a bursary can open doors to further education for many students who face financial challenges. A successful bursary application requires careful preparation and submission of the right documents. Missing even one essential document can result in your application being rejected.

To help you avoid this, here is a detailed bursary application checklist of documents you must have before you apply.

Bursaries Closing in June 2025

Essential Documents for a Successful Bursary Application

Certified Copy of Your ID

Your ID is the cornerstone of your bursary application. It serves as proof of your identity and South African citizenship or permanent residency status, both of which are fundamental requirements for most bursaries.

Why is it Important?

Identity and Citizenship Verification: Bursaries are often available exclusively to South African citizens or permanent residents. The ID copy proves that you meet this criterion.
Certification: A certified copy of your ID ensures that it is an official, valid representation of the original document. For authenticity, ensure that the copy is certified by a commissioner of oaths or a local police station.

Tips:

Check that the certification is done within the last three months.
Submit either your green barcoded ID book or smart ID card if you have one. Both are acceptable.
If you don’t yet have your ID, consider submitting a birth certificate (in the case of younger students) or an affidavit explaining why your ID is unavailable.

Latest Academic Results or Transcripts

Your academic performance plays a significant role in the selection process for bursaries, as many programs are awarded based on merit. Bursary providers want to see that you meet their academic criteria, whether you’re applying as a high school graduate or a current university student.

Why is it Important?

Proof of Academic Performance: Your results demonstrate your dedication and ability to succeed academically.
Merit-Based Decisions: Some bursaries are awarded based on the academic excellence of the applicant. Good grades can significantly increase your chances of receiving financial assistance.

Tips:

If you’re still in school, submit your Grade 11 final results and Grade 12 progress reports. If available, submit your final matric certificate once you complete your matric year.
For university or technical college students, submit your most recent academic transcript, including marks for the courses you have completed.
If your grades are not as strong as you would like, consider highlighting other strengths in your motivational letter (such as extracurricular activities, work experience, or personal challenges you’ve overcome).

Proof of Acceptance or Registration

Many bursary programs require applicants to be accepted by or enrolled in a recognized tertiary institution. The bursary provider wants to ensure that the financial assistance will directly benefit your studies.

Why is it Important?

Proof of Enrollment: This confirms that you are attending or will be attending a recognized institution, ensuring the bursary is used for educational purposes.
Relevance to the Bursary: Some bursaries are institution-specific or program-specific, so the proof of acceptance or registration confirms that you are eligible for that particular bursary.

Tips:

If you are applying before receiving your acceptance letter, include a provisional acceptance letter from the institution.
For current students, submit proof of current registration, which may include a copy of your student card or a letter from your university.

Proof of Parent or Guardian Income

Bursaries based on financial need require applicants to provide detailed information about their household’s financial situation. Proof of income from your parents or guardians will help bursary providers assess your need for financial assistance.

Why is it Important?

Financial Need Assessment: This document allows bursary providers to evaluate whether you truly need financial assistance to continue your studies.
Household Circumstances: Some bursaries may give preference to students from lower-income households, so clear proof of income is necessary.

Tips:

Acceptable documents for proof of income include pay slips (for employed parents/guardians), tax returns, or pension slips (for retirees).
If your parents or guardians are unemployed, you can submit an affidavit indicating unemployment or proof of SASSA (South African Social Security Agency) grants if applicable.
Be honest about your financial situation, as bursary providers often verify income claims.

Motivational Letter or Personal Statement

The motivational letter is one of the most important documents in your bursary application. It’s your opportunity to speak directly to the bursary committee and explain why you are deserving of financial support.

Why is it Important?

Personal Touch: The motivational letter helps bursary providers understand your personality, ambitions, and passion for your chosen field of study.
Strengthen Your Case: You can use the letter to elaborate on why you need the bursary, what your career goals are, and how receiving the bursary will make a difference in your life.

Tips:

Be honest, genuine, and professional in your tone.
Discuss your academic and career goals, how the bursary will help you achieve them, and why you are passionate about your field of study.
Keep it concise: A motivational letter should not exceed one page. Ensure that it is well-written and free of grammatical errors.

Proof of Residence

Some bursaries prioritize students from certain geographic areas, especially rural or disadvantaged communities. Providing proof of residence allows bursary providers to assess your eligibility based on your location.

Why is it Important?

Geographic Preferences: Some bursaries are specifically targeted at students from particular regions or communities, so the proof of residence document confirms your eligibility.
Verification of Living Situation: It verifies where you live and may also be used to confirm if you’re applying for a bursary that supports students from certain socio-economic backgrounds.

Tips:

Acceptable documents include a recent municipal bill (water, electricity, etc.), an affidavit from a local authority or councillor, or a letter from your local community leader.
Ensure the document is recent—ideally no older than three months.

Affidavit for Special Circumstances

If your living situation is unique or challenging, such as being part of a child-headed household or living with extended family members, it’s important to provide an affidavit outlining your situation.

Why is it Important?

Context: It helps bursary providers understand your personal circumstances, especially if they are unusual or affect your ability to study.
Verification: The affidavit serves as an official statement of your situation, which can be verified by the bursary committee.

Tips:

You may need to include supporting letters from social workers or community leaders to strengthen your case.
Make sure the affidavit is clear and explains your living situation in detail.

Certified Copies of Parents’ or Guardians’ IDs

Bursary providers often require certified copies of your parents’ or guardians’ IDs to confirm their identity and their role in supporting your application, especially in the case of financial assistance.

Why is it Important?

Verification of Dependents: This allows bursary providers to verify that you are indeed a dependent of the individuals whose income is being reported.
Confirming Eligibility: Some bursaries may have age or employment restrictions based on the parents’ or guardians’ status.

Tips:

Ensure that these copies are certified and up to date.
Include both parents’ IDs if possible, or just the guardian’s ID if you are not living with both parents.

Bank Details or Bank Confirmation Letter

Some bursaries require students to provide their banking details to facilitate the payment of bursary funds. Providing a bank confirmation letter or a bank statement ensures that bursary payments are directed to the correct account.

Why is it Important?

Efficient Payment: This ensures bursary payments are made directly to your account, preventing delays or issues with disbursements.
Verification: It verifies that the bank account is active and belongs to you.

Tips:

Ensure that the document clearly shows your name and account number.
If you are a minor, include a letter from your parent/guardian confirming that the account is under your name.

Medical or Disability Certificates (if applicable)

If you have a disability or any health conditions that may affect your ability to study, submitting a medical certificate can help you qualify for specific bursaries aimed at students with disabilities or medical needs.

Why is it Important?

Specialized Bursaries: Some bursaries are designated for students with disabilities, so submitting a medical certificate is essential to be considered for these programs.
Eligibility Confirmation: It verifies that you have a condition that may impact your education and helps bursary providers tailor support to your needs.

Tips:

Ensure that the medical certificate is current and includes relevant details about your condition.
If you are applying for a disability-specific bursary, provide additional documents that may strengthen your case, such as supporting letters from doctors or social workers.

Bonus Tips for Your Bursary Application

Ensure Every Document is Certified: This ensures that your documents are authentic and prevents unnecessary delays in processing.
Keep Your Contact Information Updated: Make sure your contact details are current so bursary providers can easily reach you.
Submit Your Application on Time: Ensure you know the bursary’s deadline and submit your documents well in advance.
Keep Digital Copies: Scan and store digital copies of all your documents for quick access and to avoid loss during the submission process.

Applying for a bursary is a crucial step in securing the financial support needed to pursue your educational goals. In South Africa, where many students face financial barriers, bursaries offer a lifeline to those who demonstrate academic promise and financial need.

However, the process requires careful attention to detail, especially when it comes to submitting the necessary documentation.

The bursary application checklist outlined above covers the essential documents you must have to ensure your application is complete and considered.

From certified copies of your ID and academic transcripts to motivational letters and proof of residence, each document plays an important role in verifying your eligibility and demonstrating your commitment to your studies.

Remember, failing to submit even one required document could result in your application being rejected, no matter how strong your academic record or personal achievements are. Therefore, take the time to carefully gather and certify your documents, and ensure you meet all the bursary’s requirements.

With thorough preparation and attention to detail, you can maximize your chances of securing a bursary and unlock the opportunities for further education that will help you shape your future. Stay organized, follow the guidelines, and submit your application on time.

Good luck on your bursary journey, and may you achieve the academic success and personal growth that you deserve!