A bursary is a financial award given to students who require financial assistance to pursue their education. Unlike scholarships or awards, bursaries are usually awarded based on financial need or other specific criteria. In this blog post, we will discuss the importance of bursaries for students and focus on a specific factor that is used to determine eligibility and the number of bursaries for applicants.
Why Bursaries are Important for Students
Bursaries are important for students who require financial assistance to pursue their education. They enable students to focus on their studies without worrying about financial constraints. For many students, a bursary can make the difference between being able to attend university or college and having to abandon their educational goals.
Main Factor: Academic Performance
Academic performance is a common factor used to determine the eligibility and amount of bursaries for applicants. Many bursaries require applicants to have a minimum grade point average (GPA) or to meet other academic performance criteria. This is because bursaries are often awarded to students who demonstrate a strong commitment to their studies and have the potential to excel academically.
For example, the University of Cape Town offers a range of bursaries based on academic performance, including the Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship for top-performing undergraduate students and the Standard Bank Africa Chairman’s Scholarship for postgraduate students who have demonstrated academic excellence.
According to the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) in South Africa, academic performance is a key factor used to determine the eligibility and amount of bursaries for applicants. NSFAS provides financial assistance to students who are from low-income households and are academically deserving. Students who maintain an average of at least 50% in their studies are eligible to receive a bursary.
Conclusion
Bursaries are an important source of financial assistance for students who need them. Academic performance is a common factor used to determine eligibility and the number of bursaries for applicants. Students who demonstrate a strong commitment to their studies and have the potential to excel academically are often eligible for bursaries based on academic performance. If you are considering applying for a bursary based on academic performance, be sure to research the specific criteria for each bursary and aim to maintain a high GPA throughout your studies.