WHAT TO EXPECT

If you are a matriculant hoping to study after Grade 12, apply for NSFAS if you qualify. But don’t stop there.

I’m saying this as a university student to someone who is about to enter university. I have seen for myself what studying hard and applying for opportunities can do.

There are many private bursaries, company bursaries and university funding opportunities available. If you qualify, apply.

Don’t depend on one bursary

NSFAS is important and helps many students get through university. But it has also faced challenges with funding and administration.

So why put all your hopes on one funding option?

Apply for private bursaries too. Some can help with tuition, accommodation, books, meals and other study costs. Some may also offer laptops, mentorship, internships or other opportunities.

What worked for me

I made it my goal to apply for almost every bursary I qualified for.

Sometimes I applied for two or three in one day.

I got rejected many times. But I kept going.

You don’t need every bursary to say yes. You only need a few to say yes.

I also took my studies seriously and learned to manage my time. There were many nights when I had to study while also looking for bursaries and completing applications.

But it paid off.

The university life I am living now is something I honestly did not think I would experience this soon. I have been able to get things I used to dream about, including laptops and phones.

That experience taught me one thing: put yourself in as many opportunities as possible.

Start now for bursaries

Don’t wait until January.

Look for bursaries now, check their requirements and apply before they close. Closing dates change, so always check the official website of the funder.

Keep your important documents ready, including your ID, latest results and proof of income.

And don’t be scared of rejection. I got plenty of them.

A bursary you never apply for can never accept you.

Where to look for bursaries

Always check that the bursary is legitimate before sending your personal documents.

Never pay someone simply because they promise to get you a bursary. If something looks suspicious, check the organisation’s official website first.

The finish line is near

If you’re writing matric this year, you still have this.

Study hard. Manage your time. Apply for NSFAS if you qualify, but also apply for private and company bursaries.

You will get rejected. I did too.

But you only need a few doors to open.

Keep applying. Keep studying. The finish line is near.

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