Applying for funding can be confusing. If you’re feeling a bit lost in the process, take a step back and know your facts. Scholarships and bursaries may sound the same but they’re not. Don’t worry, we’re about to break it down.
If you’re keen to get on that tertiary education grind, listen up. The first step towards making this happen is to send your application through on time. The second step: figure out how to pay for your studies.
When fees fail to fall
The going rate for tertiary education is pretty steep. If you’re in the process of applying to tertiary institutions, this thought has probably crossed your mind already.
Yip, the cost to get an education is no joke. It’s hella expensive, that’s what it is. Between the application fee, prescribed textbooks and tuition fees, the expense adds up quickly. We totally get it. You’ve got a right to rant.
So, what’s the best way around the financial trauma? Well, if these fees are showing you flames, finding funding is a great strategy. Trust us when we say that funding is a legit way forward and the best way to minimise your stress levels.Bursaries vs Scholarships
Okay, great. So, the number one solution to the hectic-tertiary-fees issue: find funding. But… how?
Funding is funding, right?! With all due respect: that thinking is wrong. First things first: understand the funding space. Your two best funding options are bursaries and scholarships. And yes, there’s a difference. Let’s break it down.
| Bursaries: | Scholarships: |
| Awarded to students, mainly based on financial need | Awarded to students, based on talent (academic, sporting, musical etc.) |
| Often students are required to work-back after completing their studies | Generally, no work-back is required |
| Quite common | Not as common as bursaries |
| Covered costs differ from bursary to bursary | In general, all costs necessary to get the student tertiary-qualified are covered |
| Offered by companies and organisations | Offered by social organisations and institutions |
So, these are the main differences between your two prime funding options. In summary, both opportunities will cover your major financial costs. Bursaries are great. Scholarships are awesome!
Whether you apply for a bursary or scholarship, remember:
- Your marks need to be on point – this will always be a factor. Working hard in school can pay off. #WorthIt
- Take your time when applying – your future is pretty serious so be sure to dedicate a decent amount of time to complete the application process properly.
- Be persistent and purposeful – you can even find funding opportunities by contacting different organisations to see if they’ve any funding opportunities available for you. Knowing what you want and (respectfully) asking for it is key 😉
Score a scholarship
To land a bursary, you have to need the funding and you need to have decent marks. It’s tough but many funders (the peeps who offer funding) consider a variety of other factors when deciding who to fund.
A scholarship, on the other hand, is more of a challenge. For starters, scholarships usually have way more applicants. This is because there are no strings attached to a scholarship. Your studies are paid for. You study. You get the qualification. Done. Dusted.
The benefits of a scholarship include:
- A boosted self-esteem – not just anyone can get awarded this funding opportunity. Use this knowledge to reach your academic goals.
- You’re worry-free – no-payback or work-back
- Your CV will dazzle – a scholarship is a feather in your cap and employers know it.
The Pearson Scholarship
Let’s get down to the nitty-gritty: where are the scholarships at?
Pearson Institute of Higher Education offers a range of study options and has 12 campuses located across the country. The institution is also passionate about furthering the education of talented individuals. Pearson does not want students to be limited by the cost of education so they’ve decided to offer their students funding.
The Pearson Scholarship aims to provide financial support to first time South African students who’ve enrolled for a bachelor qualification (having registered for every module of a specific course) and paid the R800 registration fee.
To qualify for the scholarship, you’ll need to:
- have passed all matric subjects with an average above 55%
- be aware that your 6 top subjects will be considered (excluding LO)
- have taken Pure Maths if you’re applying to study the sciences, commerce or IT
This is a great opportunity to study at one of South Africa’s leading institutions and set yourself on the road to a qualification. You have nothing to lose; apply straight after registration to be in with a chance of getting awarded this scholarship. Please note: the registration closing date for 2018 is the end of February 2018.
A Pearson Scholarship is within your reach. Grab the opportunity!
EduConnect 2Cents
“The only real failure is the failure to try…”
– Deborah Moggach
Back yourself. Sure, the funding search is difficult but the opportunity to get a scholarship IS within your reach. All you need to do is start applying. We have a range of funding opportunities that are open to talented individuals. You know your options. Now envision living the scholarship life and make it happen.
