The online bursary application for 2025 is becoming simpler than it was a couple of years ago. New technology, connectivity and lower data cost has increase online access for all students in South Africa. This leads to increased access to online bursary application process which is more inclusive.
Previously, learners from rural towns were not able to access funding opportunities compared to urban areas students. Without online access, submitting a bursary application was a nightmare. The cost of printing bursary application forms complicated everything and many students were left stranded. The results of this was skewed development and access to higher education in South Africa.
All this has changed in 2025 and almost all students can now access online bursary application which makes life easier. There are many online application platforms available and accessible to every learner. This eliminates the cost of travelling to nearest post or courier companies which are predominantly located in cities and towns.
The cost of higher education is high in South Africa, leading to many students failing to acquire a qualification. The job market is very competitive and it is difficult to compete without a post-matric qualification.
Benefits of Online Bursary Application Process
Online bursary application offers advantages to every learner who wishes to secure funding for tertiary education in 2025. Here are the benefits for online access:
- Convenience – South Africa has increased access to connectivity which makes it easier for everyone to read and submit requests for funding.
- Faster Submission – when submitting applications you get your confirmation of receipt instantly.
- Simplified Process: managing communication with the bursary provider is much easier with internet access. You can easily track your stages of your online application.rg
- Faster Response Times: Online applications can often be processed quicker, giving students timely feedback on their applications.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for a Bursary
Step 1: Choose Your Bursary
The first step is to identify bursaries that you wish to apply for. Suitability is determined by your career option which requires that you enroll for a matching qualifications. There are many platforms where you can search for a suitable bursary. Below are some of these platforms:
- University Financial Aid Offices – universities and universities of technology have created students funding offices where they help students who need financial support to complete their qualifications. Many universities maintain a list of recommended bursaries on their websites.
- Online Bursary Platforms – there are many online platforms that include websites and APPs that provide detailed list and information on available bursaries. Most government departments, agencies and municipalities also publish bursaries they offer. These are accessible online.
- Industry Professional Associations – students looking for bursaries can also visit these professional bodies to get guidance on how to access financial support that they offer.
Step 2: Match Eligibility Requirements
Every bursary provider has a set of eligibility requirements that they develop as a tool to pick beneficiaries suitable for their program. These vary from business to business depending on their objectives. Below are common eligibility requirements providers put out:
- Academic Performance Criteria – most bursaries require a minimum academic performance of at least 70% on average
- Financial Need – over and above academic performance, bursary providers also look at affordability when awarding bursaries.
- Study Fields – companies always align fields of study with their operational requirements. This is because students who complete their studies are offered employment.
- Applicant’s Citizenship – bursary providers doing business in South Africa may prefer assisting South Africa citizens.
Before you submit your online bursary application, make sure that you meet all its requirements as often set out under study fields of choice.
Step 3: Gathering of All Required Documents
Bursary providers are not able to access applications without a set of supporting documents. This is for verification purposes. Below are some of commonly required from online bursary application recipients:
- Certified Copy of your South Africa ID
- Your Academic Performance Transcripts
- Proof of Household Income
- Motivational Letter
- Proof of Address
Students who submit online bursary application are discouraged from submitting uncertified documents. It is advised that only certified documents are uploaded with the application form.
How to Submit Online Bursary Application: Step-by-Step Instructions
- Online Account Registration – most online platforms require that you create an online account before you start your application process. This is how they capture your personal details
- Complete Online Application Form – capturing your personal and academic information is done by completion of the form. Make sure you provide accurate information.
- Upload Supporting Documents – here you are required to upload files that contain your documents that are needed to process your online application. The common file format is PDF. Students are encouraged to upload certified copies of documents. Try to split your documents to avoid large sizes that may not be acceptable. Always check the size requirement per file
- Final Application Review – before you click the submit button, make sure that you have reviewed your application. Fix all mistakes that you may have made and submit.
Bursary Applications FAQs
1. Can I apply for multiple bursaries online?
The advantage of online bursary application is that you can apply for multiple bursaries using the same documents. This is different from manual application in that you do not physically send any document. You only upload required documents as files.
2. Is it safe to submit online bursary applications?
Most websites are secure by the HTTPS protocols which protects all information exchanged online. Students are encouraged to refrain from using online platforms whose address does not use this security
3. What happens if I miss the deadline?
Late applications are generally not considered for financial assistance. Applicants are advised to always submit their applications on time.
4. How do I know if my bursary application was received?
As soon as you submit your online application you will be directed to a thank you page. Additionally some bursary providers will send you an email to confirm receipt. Always make sure that you provide a correct email address during your application. The email response may contain contact details for the official or the office that is handling your application. This is helpful when you have to track your application progress.
5. How long does it take to receive assessment outcome?
Many bursary providers provide feedback few weeks after the closing date. It is advised that applicants do not communicate with the provider unless if there is something important. Most bursaries carry a notice indicating when applicants should consider their application as unsuccessful.
Explore More Funding Opportunities for 2025 academic year:
Check out our list below arranged by fields of study. Additionally, you can explore bursaries tailored to your specific academic or career goals.
About the Author:
Mr. Percy Mncwango is a seasoned education writer with over 10 years of experience in creating high-ranking articles that provide valuable guidance for students seeking university funding. As a graduate of the University of Cape Town Business School, Percy combines deep knowledge and personal experience to help students succeed. He has received bursaries from Nampak, Telkom, and the Institute of Directors of South Africa (IoD). Percy’s educational background, which includes Richtec TVET, Mangosuthu University of Technology, and UCT GSB, equips him with a unique perspective that enriches his SEO-optimized content and resonates with aspiring scholars.