Tips to Increase Your Chances of Getting Funded

Apply widely, not perfectly to one

Most funders receive thousands of applications for a handful of awards, so even a strong application can miss out for reasons that have nothing to do with you. Students who get funded are usually the ones who submitted ten or fifteen solid applications, not one flawless one. Set aside a fixed slot each week during the season and work through your shortlist.

Submit early in the cycle

Portals slow down badly in the last week before a closing date and uploads fail. Reviewers also work through files as they arrive, so an early, complete file gets a calmer read. Aim to be done a week before the deadline.

Make the motivation specific to that funder

A motivational letter that could be sent to any bursary reads like a form letter. Name the funder, name the qualification, and say what you plan to do with it, ideally in a way that connects to the funder's sector. A mining company funding engineering students wants to read that you want to work in that industry, not a general statement about wanting to help your community.

• Mention the exact bursary and qualification by name
• Give one concrete example from your own life rather than general statements
• Explain your financial situation plainly and without exaggeration
• Keep it to one page and check the spelling

Fix the small things that get files rejected

Certification older than three months, a blurry ID scan, a missing parent affidavit or an unsigned form are the usual reasons a file never reaches a reviewer. Open every file after you upload it and check that it opens and is readable.

Keep your marks up while you wait

Many bursaries confirm an offer only after final results, and almost all of them require a minimum average to keep the funding once you are studying. Your results in the term you apply matter twice: once for selection, and again for renewal.

Follow up politely, then keep going

If a funder gives a reference number, keep it. A short, polite email a few weeks after the closing date to confirm your file was received is fine. Chasing weekly is not. While you wait, keep applying, and apply for NSFAS as well if you qualify so you have a fallback.