Bursary application tips
Start
Don’t wait until the last minute – start exploring your funding options early. Familiarise yourself with the different bursaries available and their closing dates (you’ll find a handy list of architecture-related options here), and make sure you research what’s involved in the application process. It can take time to prepare the necessary documents and information, and submission deadlines can roll around more quickly than you think.
Plan ahead
Some bursary programmes require you to secure a place at a tertiary institution before you apply for funding, so make sure those university applications are on track. Here’s a list of handy tips and links to help you with your tertiary application process.
Sell yourself
The purpose of your application is to convince the bursary donors that you’re a candidate who is worth their financial investment. A strong, well-written motivation letter can help to highlight your skills and achievements.
Motivation letter tips:
- Keep it short (a page is plenty)
- Briefly outline the purpose of your application
- Sum up your educational and personal achievements so far
- Give your cover letter personality by mentioning your study and future career goals - and how a bursary will help you to achieve these
- Don’t forget to proofread carefully!
Highly recommended
Some bursary programmes require a recommendation letter (sometimes more than one) to be submitted with your application. You don’t want to leave this to the last minute - give yourself plenty of time to approach teachers or other mentors who know you well, and provide them with any available details about the required format and content of the letter.
Don't leave anything out
It’s incredibly important that you complete the application form in full, and submit all the necessary documentation in the right format. Requirements and criteria can vary a lot depending on which source of funding you’re applying for – so read carefully and make a detailed checklist to ensure you don’t leave anything out.
Be thorough
Your application needs to stand out from the competition - for the right reasons! Make sure avoidable mistakes don’t hurt your chances. A rushed, incomplete submission that’s full of errors or spelling mistakes (or one that’s sent after the deadline) will no doubt cost you the bursary. Bursary committees want to know they’re awarding funding to a well-prepared and deserving candidate.
View current bursaries
