Scholarships and Bursaries: What are they and how can you get them?

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Scholarships and Bursaries: What are they and how can you get them?

Posted by Rob on August 19, 2013

There’s never a better time to start looking at funding options than before the school year starts. In fact, I would say, the earlier you do, the better! Scholarships and bursaries are two funding options I’m going to discuss.

First, let’s distinguish between the two. Scholarships are usually awarded based on academic merit, either automatically when you apply to a school or as you progress through your program. You can also apply for external scholarships that require some work on your end, whether it’s an essay, a project, a lengthy application questionnaire or even reference letters. Scholarships are not awarded based on financial need, but on the merits of the applicant.

Bursaries are completely different. Though some bursaries can require essays, projects or questionnaires, they are awarded based on financial need rather than academic merit. Bursaries are available on campus or externally. Of course, maintaining good grades and being involved on campus can only help your case.

Applying for these two funding options can be similar and different in some ways. Bursaries require a more honest and detailed application about your financial situation, whereas scholarships are purely academic- or merit-based. I’ve compiled some tips that work for both scholarships and bursaries. These tips are just some things to keep in mind.

Honesty: I can’t stress this enough. In either application, honesty is the way to go. Not only for your conscience, but also, if it’s discovered that you were not truthful on your application, you could be denied funding. When it comes to discussing accomplishments and awards, be clear on what you were acknowledged for. Don’t claim something unless you can back it up.
Accuracy: Ask a peer to edit your application to make sure you’ve filled out everything correctly, answered all questions to the best of your ability, and checked for misspelled words or typos.
Time management: If you require references, give them proper notice and sufficient time. Your panic is not their panic. They’re doing you a favour! Also, do not rush through the application. Be thoughtful and thorough, and always check for spelling and grammar.
Respect deadlines: If your application is due on Friday at 12:00 p.m., make sure you have it in on Friday by 11:59 a.m. Even a minute late can be grounds to deny your application. It’s about following the rules.

I think if you keep these four tips in mind, you’ll be well equipped to do your best on your scholarship and bursary applications. Any little bit of extra funding can help when you’re a student. Apply for as many bursaries and scholarships as you see relevant to your situation. Good luck!

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